kukui

American  

[koo-koo-ee] / kuˈku i /

noun

1. the candlenut tree, Aleurites moluccana, of the spurge family, having grayish leaves and clusters of small white flowers: the state tree of Hawaii.

---

Etymology

Origin of kukui

Borrowed into English from Hawaiian around 1815–25

Example Sentences

At the Kaanapali Beach Hotel, Kongbay Moua, the marketing manager, says their team hosts a farewell ceremony where each guest is taught how to properly string a kukui nut to their lei.

From Seattle Times • Oct. 15, 2021

A dukkah spice blend made from inamona, or kukui nuts, and sesame seeds tops it.

From The Guardian • Mar. 2, 2017

At the very top is the Summit Room, where a large kukui tree stands.

From Washington Times • Feb. 7, 2015

You'll also see some slightly odder licensing partnerships: Tervis tumblers and kukui nut necklaces with NFL branding.

From Slate • Apr. 23, 2012

Still higher up the mountain side grew the forests of creamy koa, inlaid among the dark-leaved kukui.

From The Frontier Boys in the Sierras Or, The Lost Mine by Roosevelt, Wyn