haole

American  

[hou-lee, -ley] / ˈhaʊ li, -leɪ /

noun

Sometimes Disparaging.

1. (among Polynesian Hawaiians) a term used to refer to a non-Polynesian, especially a white person.

2. (among Hawaiians) a term formerly used to refer to any foreigner.

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Sensitive Note

Haole is usually considered to be a neutral descriptive term. However, it is sometimes used with disparaging intent, arising from a distrust of foreigners or outsiders.

Etymology

Origin of haole

1835–45; < Hawaiian: white person, (earlier) foreigner, foreign

Example Sentences

“These Native Hawaiians who live in a secluded, very traditional community who use the term ‘haole’ to describe people that are not from Hawaii - that’s the term that they use,” she said.

From Washington Times

“Haole,” a Hawaiian word with meanings that include foreign and white person, was central to the case, highlighting multicultural Hawaii’s nuanced and complicated relationship with race.

From Seattle Times

At one point Aki is heard saying, “You’s a haole, eh,” using a Hawaiian word that can mean white person.

From Seattle Times

“These Native Hawaiians who live in a secluded, very traditional community who use the term ‘haole’ to describe people that are not from Hawaii — that’s the term that they use,” she said.

From Seattle Times

Haole, a Hawaiian word with meanings that include foreign and white person, is central to the case, which highlights multicultural Hawaii’s nuanced and complicated relationship with race.

From Seattle Times