Hawaiian

American  

[huh-wahy-uhn, -wah-yuhn] / həˈwaɪ ən, -ˈwɑ yən /

adjective

1. of or relating to Hawaii or the Hawaiian Islands.

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noun

1. a native or inhabitant of Hawaii or the Hawaiian Islands.

2. the aboriginal language of Hawaii, a Polynesian language.

Hawaiian British  

/ həˈwaɪən /

adjective

1. of or relating to Hawaii, its people, or their language

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noun

1. a native or inhabitant of Hawaii, esp one descended from Melanesian or Tahitian immigrants

2. a language of Hawaii belonging to the Malayo-Polynesian family

Etymology

Origin of Hawaiian

First recorded in 1815–25; Hawaii + -an

Compare meaning

How does hawaiian compare to similar and commonly confused words? Explore the most common comparisons:

• Polynesian vs. Hawaiian

Example Sentences

With several films yet to be released, and riding his success from the global hit "A Minecraft Movie," Hawaiian actor Jason Momoa says he is living a unique moment.

From Barron's • Jun. 1, 2026

Moore believes that this Hawaiian law, and others like it in the works in other states, have a good chance of surviving at the Supreme Court.

From Salon • May 28, 2026

Holloway, 34, is a difficult return opponent for McGregor as the Hawaiian has consistently competed at the highest level at lightweight in recent years.

From BBC • May 17, 2026

Visitors can learn to surf with a dog riding on the front of their board, or try night snorkeling or a Hawaiian cowboy-themed lūau.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 11, 2026

Hoku is in my Hawaiian language class, and though I’m sure she only knows me as that girl Michelle calls Baby Mouse, she’s always really nice.

From "Clairboyance" by Kristiana Kahakauwila