pukana lā
pukana lā is the Hawaiian way to say sunrise.
This noun is used to describe the time of day when the sun rises.
Meaning: time of day (noun)
Did you know?
- The word pukana is also used to describe a specific facial expression in traditional dance where the eyes are widened and the chin is thrust forward.
- The word lā in this phrase shares an ancient ancestor with the Malay word layar, which means 'sail'.
- The term lā is so foundational that it functions as both a noun for 'sun' and a noun for 'day', merging the concepts of light and time into one word.
Example conversation
Koa and Malia are planning a hike.
- KoaE hele kākou i ka pukana lā.Let's go at sunrise.
- MaliaHe wā maikaʻi kēlā.That is a good time.
- KoaE kīkī kākou i nā mea.Let's pack our things.
- MaliaʻAe, e holo kākou.Yes, let's go.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries lā, CC BY-SA 4.0.