kahawai
/ˌka.haˈwai̯/
The Hawaiian word for river is kahawai. Wiktionary also lists muliwai.
Meaning: large stream which drains a landmass (noun)
Ways to say it
| Hawaiian | IPA |
|---|---|
| kahawai | /ˌka.haˈwai̯/ |
| muliwai |
Which one should you use?
kahawai refers to a main river, whereas muliwai is used specifically for a tributary or a smaller stream that flows into a larger one.
How do you pronounce it?
The word has 3 syllables, with the stress on the 3rd syllable. It is pronounced /ˌka.haˈwai̯/.
Did you know?
- In Hawaiian culture, rivers are often viewed as living entities or ancestors rather than just geological features.
- Because of the volcanic landscape, many Hawaiian 'rivers' are actually seasonal, meaning a kahawai might only flow during heavy rains.
- In traditional Hawaiian chants, the flow of water from the mountains to the sea is often used as a metaphor for the lineage and connection between ancestors and descendants.
Examples in context
- E hele kākou i ka kahawai.Let's go to the river.
- He kahawai nui kēia.This is a large river.
- E hele ana māua i ka kahawai.We are going to the river.
- He māmā ka wai i ka kahawai.The water in the river is shallow.
Example conversation
Noelani and Kai are hiking in the mountains.
- NoelaniAloha Kai, aia ke kahawai!Hello Kai, there is the river!
- KaiHe nani ka kahawai kēlā.That river is beautiful.
- NoelaniHiki pū mākou ke ʻauʻi.We can also swim.
- KaiʻAe, e hele kākou!Yes, let's go!
Sources
- Wiktionary, “river” translations and entries kahawai, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
