Interesting Facts about the Hawaiian Language

Your knowledge of the Hawaiian language might be limited to the word ‘Aloha’ and “hula” dancers. Hawaiian is the Polynesian language spoken on all islands of Hawaii with some dialectical differences. In 1896, this language was adopted as the national language. Apart from these, what are other fascinating facts about the Hawaiian language? Let’s delve more into it. 

10 Surprising Facts About the Hawaiian Language

The Polynesians first colonized the Hawaiian Islands, and subsequent migrators from New Zealand, Tahiti, Tonga, and Samoa improved the Hawaiian language. We have listed some fascinating facts about the Hawaiian language here. 

1. Only US State with Two Official Languages

In 1978, the Hawaiian language got official status through the state constitution. Apart from this, English has been declared as the official language of this State in 1778. So, both languages are used in schools, public offices, courts, and the legislature. 

2. The Hawaiian Alphabet has 13 Letters

Hawaiian is written in Latin script, similar to English. The Hawaiian alphabet has 13 letters, which are 8 consonants and 5 vowels. The 13 letters in Hawaiian include A, E, H, I, K, L, M, N, O, P, U, W, and the glottal stop, okina (‘). 

3. Secret In Hawaiian Alphabet

Hawaiian words always end in vowels instead of consonants. However, every consonant is followed by a vowel in the Hawaiian language. The syllables in the word consist of one or two letters, not much longer. 

4. Three Dialects in the Hawaiian Language

Hilo, Hawaiian Pidgin (known as Hawaiian Creole English), and Kauaʻi (Old Hawai’i) are the three dialects of the Hawaiian language. They also have a few variations based on the differences in urban and rural areas. That’s why Hawaiian language translations are quite difficult. 

5. Exact Meaning of Aloha

The word ‘aloha’ is used as a greeting. Most people think this word means ‘goodbye’ or ‘hello.’ However, it also means love, affection, peace, mercy, and kindness. Aloha State is also the nickname for Hawaii. Besides the ‘aloha’ word, do you know what it means to receive Lei in Hawaii? A lei is a blossom set tied together to make a necklace or garland. 

6. Hawaiian Pronunciation

The Polynesian dialect of the Hawaiian language has strict rules regarding pronunciation and spelling. Eight consonants in this language are pronounced similarly to English. However, five Hawaiian vowels sound unlike English. There are no silent vowels in this language.  

7. February is Hawaiian Language Month

February is known as Ōlelo Hawaiʻi month or Hawaiian language month. This is celebrated to encourage Hawaiian language and culture. 

8. Humuhumunukunukuapuaa: Longest Word in Hawaii

One of the longest words in the Hawaiian language is ‘Humuhumunukunukuapuaa,’ which means triggerfish. Humuhumu means ‘fish that grunts like a pig’ in Hawaiian. 

9. Hawaiian Naming

Hawaiian names are based on social class and family gods. Kai and Leilani are the most common traditional names in Hawaii. However, innovations have happened in modern Hawaiian names, based on Hawaiian sounds and styles. Luna, Mila, Noah, and Olivia are modern Hawaiian names. 

10. UNESCO Classifies Hawaiian as Critically Endangered

There were 4 to 8 lakh native Hawaiian speakers when Captain Cook discovered the Hawaiian Islands. UNESCO has classified Hawaiian as ‘critically endangered’ because there are only 2000 native speakers now. 

The Hawaiian language is a powerful example of how a culture can survive with determination and dedication. It is also home to a wonderful ecosystem with an ancient Polynesian culture.