puka

American  

[poo-kuh] / ˈpu kə /

noun

1. a small white shell found on Pacific, especially Hawaiian, beaches and strung in clusters to make necklaces.

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puka British  

/ ˈpuːkɑː /

noun

1. another name for broadleaf

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Etymology

Origin of puka

First recorded in 1970–75; of uncertain origin

Example Sentences

Each episode brought a new drama that, without fail, led to Ryan punching the puka shell necklace off a dude’s neck.

From Los Angeles Times • Aug. 7, 2023

Howard Smith, who served in Hawaii before he retired from the Army, came bearing traditional puka shell necklaces to give to Mr. Bishop and his wife.

From Washington Times • Feb. 23, 2023

The gold crown was decorated with puka shells and beads, every inch of the garment stoned and sparkling.

From Slate • May 21, 2021

The puka shell necklace would have made a strong statement with the green jacket.

From Golf Digest • Mar. 22, 2020

I aku la kahi kanaka i ke Alii, "Kokoke puka kaua."

From The Hawaiian Romance Of Laieikawai by Beckwith, Martha Warren