kalo
/ˈka.lo/
The Hawaiian word for taro (Colocasia esculenta) is kalo.
Meaning: Colocasia esculenta (noun)
How do you pronounce it?
The word has two syllables and the stress is on the first syllable: /ˈka.lo/.
Did you know?
- The word kalo is not just a name for a plant, but is considered the elder brother of the Hawaiian people in traditional mythology.
- Growing kalo requires a complex system of irrigation called loʻi, which utilizes diverted stream water to keep the roots submerged.
- While many English speakers see taro as a colorful latte flavor, in Hawaii, kalo is a fundamental staple food that is often pounded into a smooth paste called poi.
Examples in context
- E kūlia i ka nuʻu me ka ʻai ʻuala a me ka kalo.Strive for the highest with sweet potatoes and taro.
- He kalo kēia.This is kalo.
- Makemake au e ʻai i ka kalo.I want to eat kalo.
Example conversation
Noelani and Ikaika are looking at a garden.
- NoelaniHe kalo piko kēia?Is this a taro corm?
- IkaikaʻAe, he kalo kēlā.Yes, that is taro.
- NoelaniHiki mai e huli i ka kalo.Come help dig the taro.
- IkaikaʻAe, e kōkua au.Yes, I will help.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “taro” translations and entries kalo, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
