haole

[ hou-lee, -ley ]

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.

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.

Word History and Origins

Origin of haole¹

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

Example Sentences

The defense claims that Elderts used the term “haole”—a derogatory Hawaiian term for white people— before the fight broke out.

From The Daily Beast

Hapa-haole,” was the answer; “he was a half-caste, you know, and we of the Islands have to think about our children.

From Project Gutenberg

So it befell at last that he was recommended to a Haole in Beritania Street.

From Project Gutenberg

But he did not know it, nor did anybody else guess it except that cursed hapa-haole, Stephen Kaluna.

From Project Gutenberg

An anecdote of this transition period is found in a book written by one who styled himself simply Haole (a foreigner).

From Project Gutenberg

At the word, the young Haole of Beritania Street reeled against the wall.

From Project Gutenberg