kava

[ kah-vuh ]

noun

1. a Polynesian shrub, Piper methysticum, of the pepper family, the aromatic roots of which are used to make an intoxicating beverage.
2. the beverage made from these roots.

kava

/ ˈkɑːvə /

noun

1. a Polynesian shrub, Piper methysticum: family Piperaceae
2. a drink prepared from the aromatic roots of this shrub

Other Words From

• Ka·va·ic [k, uh, -, vey, -ik], adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of kava¹

1810–20; < Polynesian (first recorded from Tonga Islands)

Word History and Origins

Origin of kava¹

C18: from Polynesian (Tongan): bitter

Example Sentences

As a thank-you, the senior chief anointed me “Mati,” which means “fig,” and presented me with a sacred kava stick, now a favorite treasure.

From Nautilus

In a similar vein, kava kava, advertised as a natural anti-anxiety supplement, was taken off the market for causing liver failure.

From The Daily Beast

So home, a little before six, in a dashing squall of rain, to a bowl of kava and dinner.

From Project Gutenberg

We were entertained to kava in the guest-house with some very original features.

From Project Gutenberg

“Angona” is the same as “kava” in Samoa, and is the national beverage in Fiji.

From Project Gutenberg

They were making kava (or ava or yangana), the native drink.

From Project Gutenberg

When preparing for war a piece of green kava was bound on either side of the spear-point to strike the enemy with blindness.

From Project Gutenberg