humuhumunukunukuāpuaʻa
The English phrase triggerfish is translated into Hawaiian as humuhumunukunukuāpuaʻa.
The term refers to any of several fish. It specifically describes a fish that grunts like a pig.
Meaning: any of several fish (noun)
What does it mean word for word?
The name is a descriptive phrase that translates literally to the fish with the snout of a pig that shakes.
When do people say it?
The humuhumunukunukuāpuaʻa is the national fish of the state of Hawaii.
Did you know?
- The name contains a 'simulative infix' -ā-, which is a specialized grammatical tool used to mimic a physical action or sound.
- In casual conversation, locals and divers typically drop most of the long name and simply say humuhumu.
- The word humuhumunukunukuāpuaʻa is often used as a linguistic challenge or a playful tongue-twister for non-native speakers and tourists in Hawaii.
Examples in context
- Ua ʻike kēia huʻe i ka humuhumunukunukuāpuaʻa.This diver saw a triggerfish.
- He nani ka humuhumunukunukuāpuaʻa ma ka moana.The triggerfish is beautiful in the ocean.
Example conversation
Leilani and Keanu are snorkeling in a coral reef.
- LeilaniKeanu, nānā i ka humuhumunukunukuāpuaʻa!Keanu, look at the triggerfish!
- KeanuHe nani loa ia iho.It is very beautiful down there.
- LeilaniHe inoa lōʻihi loa ia.It has a very long name.
- KeanuʻAe, akā he iʻa nani ia.Yes, but it is a beautiful fish.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries humuhumunukunukuāpuaʻa, CC BY-SA 4.0.
