malu
/ˈma.lu/
The Hawaiian word for shade is malu.
malu refers to darkness created when light is blocked.
Meaning: darkness where light is blocked (noun)
How do you pronounce it?
The word has two syllables, with the stress on the first syllable: /ˈma.lu/.
Did you know?
- A person can be described as malu if they are humble or modest, as if they are staying 'in the shade' rather than seeking the spotlight.
- The word can be found in the term maluhia, which means 'peace' or 'tranquility'. This shows how the 'shade' provided by malu is the root of the feeling of being at peace.
- The word malu is used in the context of 'royal protection', referring to the shelter provided by a high-ranking chief.
Examples in context
- E noho i loko o ka malu.Sit in the shade.
- He ʻai ka manu i ka malu.The bird eats in the shade.
Example conversation
Ikaika and Leilani are walking on a sunny beach.
- IkaikaHe lā wela kēia, Leilani.It is a hot day, Leilani.
- LeilaniʻAe, e ʻimi kākou i ka malu.Yes, let's look for some shade.
- IkaikaAia ka malu a kēlā lauʻi.There is shade under that umbrella.
- LeilaniMaikaʻi kēlā, Ikaika.That is good, Ikaika.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “shade” translations and entries malu, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
