Here are 27 Slang Terms You’ll Only Understand if you’re from Hawaii

Aloha, readers! Hawaii is not just a tropical paradise; it’s a cultural melting pot with a language all on its own. In the spirit of embracing the unique charm of the islands, join us as we talk story about 27 slang terms you’ll only truly understand if you’re lucky enough to call Hawaii home. From “grindz” to “broke da mouth,” these words offer a glimpse into the vibrant and distinctive linguistic tapestry that makes the Aloha State unlike any other place on Earth.

Aloha

While not unique to Hawaii, the way it’s used is distinctive. It means both “hello” and “goodbye,” and it also carries the deeper cultural sense of love, peace, and compassion.

Pau Hana

This term refers to the end of the workday, similar to “happy hour” on the mainland.

Haole

A non-native or foreign person, especially a white or caucasian person.

Talk Story

To have a casual conversation or chat. It’s a laid-back way of discussing things.

Slippahs

Flip-flops or sandals, often worn due to the warm climate.

Grindz

This is a term for food, especially local and hearty Hawaiian cuisine.

Makai

Toward the ocean. It’s a directional term used for giving directions.

Howzit

A greeting, as in “How’s it going?”

Lolo

Crazy or stupid. “Yo, brah, my faddah lolo!”

Kane

Man or male, husband, male sweetheart. Kāne male means married man.

Wahine

Woman in Hawaiian or female.

Keiki

Child or children.

Mauka

Toward the mountains or inland. Another directional term used for giving directions.

Da Kine

A versatile term that can be used to replace any noun or to describe something when you can’t quite remember the name.

Choke

A term meaning a lot or plenty. For example, “Choke surfers out today” means there are many surfers in the water.

Brah/Braddah

A casual term for a friend or brother. It’s a common way to address someone in a friendly manner.

Shaka

A hand gesture involving extending the thumb and pinkie finger, often accompanied by a gesture of goodwill and used to convey the “Aloha spirit.”

Broke da mouth

Used to describe incredibly delicious food that is so good it feels like it broke your mouth.

Shoots

Shoots is slang for okay or an acknowledgment. “We go to da beach, brah? Shoots!”

Pau

Finished, ended, or completed. See pau hana.

Pupule

Crazy or insane. It’s often used in a playful or teasing manner.

Slippahs (slippers)

Typically refers to sandals or flip-flops. “We going out? Let me put on my slippahs.”

Ono

Another term related to food, meaning tasty or delicious.

Pupu

Appetizers or snacks typically served at social gatherings or parties.

Brah

Short for “brother,” but it’s commonly used to address friends, regardless of gender.

Kine

A versatile term used to describe something when you can’t quite find the right word. For example, “that kine thing” means “that thing” or “you know.”

Kama’aina

A term used to describe a long-time resident of Hawaii, often used to distinguish locals from tourists.