aloha: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C1Informal, context-specific (Hawaii, tourism), occasionally poetic/literary.
Quick answer
What does “aloha” mean?
A Hawaiian word used as a greeting meaning both "hello" and "goodbye".
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A Hawaiian word used as a greeting meaning both "hello" and "goodbye".
Denotes a spirit of love, peace, compassion, and a shared connection; the underlying philosophy of Hawaiian culture.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
Equally understood but used more frequently in American English due to Hawaii's statehood. In the UK, its use is almost exclusively linked to tourism or specific cultural references.
Connotations
In both varieties, it connotes Hawaii, relaxation, and hospitality. May sound affected or inauthentic if used outside relevant contexts.
Frequency
Very low frequency in general British English; low but slightly higher in American English, especially in western states.
Grammar
How to Use “aloha” in a Sentence
[Person1] said aloha to [Person2].[Person] greeted them with aloha.Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “aloha” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- They were aloha'd by the resort staff.
- We'll aloha them when they arrive.
American English
- She aloha'd the guests as they entered the luau.
- Let's aloha the new neighbours with a small gift.
adverb
British English
- (Rarely used) They waved aloha from the dock.
American English
- (Rarely used) He nodded aloha as he passed.
adjective
British English
- He wore a colourful aloha shirt to the barbecue.
- The party had a cheerful, aloha atmosphere.
American English
- It's time to break out your aloha shirts for the summer.
- Their aloha vibe made everyone feel welcome.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Rare, except in branding for Hawaiian-themed businesses (e.g., Aloha Airlines).
Academic
Rare, used in anthropological or cultural studies of Hawaii.
Everyday
Used as a greeting/farewell in Hawaii or among tourists; otherwise used to evoke a Hawaiian vibe.
Technical
Not applicable.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “aloha”
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “aloha”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “aloha”
- Using it generically instead of 'hello' in non-Hawaiian contexts.
- Misspelling as 'aloa'.
- Overusing to sound exotic.
- Pronouncing the final 'a' as in 'cat' (/æ/) instead of /ə/ or /ɑː/.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, 'aloha' is used for both greeting and farewell in Hawaiian.
Generally no, when used respectfully and in appropriate contexts (e.g., in Hawaii, at a Hawaiian-themed event). Using it mockingly or excessively outside of context can be seen as disrespectful.
A brightly coloured, casual shirt with a printed design, often featuring Hawaiian motifs like flowers, palm trees, or ocean scenes. It's what many people call a 'Hawaiian shirt'.
'Aloha' is a greeting/farewell and a concept of love/spirit. 'Mahalo' is the Hawaiian word for 'thank you'.
A Hawaiian word used as a greeting meaning both "hello" and "goodbye".
Aloha is usually informal, context-specific (hawaii, tourism), occasionally poetic/literary. in register.
Aloha: in British English it is pronounced /əˈləʊ.hə/, and in American English it is pronounced /əˈloʊ.hɑː/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “Aloha spirit”
- “Wear your aloha shirt”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Imagine a wave hello and goodbye on a beach in HA-waii: ALOHA.
Conceptual Metaphor
HOSPITALITY / FRIENDSHIP IS ALOHA. ("They showed true aloha to the visitors.")
Practice
Quiz
In which context is the use of 'aloha' most authentic and appropriate?