maui: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
Medium-Low (Geographic proper noun)Neutral to Formal (geographic/tourism contexts); Informal (in Hawaiian cultural contexts)
Quick answer
What does “maui” mean?
The second-largest of the Hawaiian Islands, known for its diverse landscapes, including beaches, rainforests, and the Haleakalā volcano.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
The second-largest of the Hawaiian Islands, known for its diverse landscapes, including beaches, rainforests, and the Haleakalā volcano.
Often used metonymically to refer to the tourism, culture, or lifestyle associated with the island. Can also refer to a demigod in Hawaiian mythology.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant difference in meaning. Familiarity may vary slightly based on travel patterns.
Connotations
Both conjure images of a tropical holiday destination. In the UK, it may have a more 'exotic long-haul' connotation.
Frequency
Slightly higher frequency in American English due to Hawaii being a U.S. state.
Grammar
How to Use “maui” in a Sentence
[visit/V] Maui[return from/V] Maui[located on/PREP] MauiVocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “maui” in a Sentence
adjective
British English
- They brought back some lovely Maui coffee.
- He has a very Maui approach to life—relaxed and sunny.
American English
- We bought authentic Maui gold pineapples.
- The shop sells Maui-style shirts.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Tourism industry, real estate (e.g., 'Maui property market').
Academic
Geography, Pacific studies, volcanology (e.g., 'the geologic formation of Maui').
Everyday
Travel plans, holiday reminiscing (e.g., 'We're saving for a trip to Maui').
Technical
Meteorology (e.g., 'rainfall patterns on the windward side of Maui').
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “maui”
- Misspelling as 'Mawi' or 'Mauii'.
- Using incorrect article ('the Maui' is usually wrong).
- Confusing with other Hawaiian islands (e.g., 'I loved the luau in Maui' – luaus are common on many islands).
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, it is typically incorrect. Use just 'Maui' (e.g., 'We visited Maui'). The definite article is not used with island names alone.
It is a Hawaiian phrase meaning 'Maui is the best' or 'Maui is unrivalled.'
Very rarely. It is almost exclusively a proper noun. Adjectival use ('Maui weather') is accepted.
The main airport is Kahului Airport, with the IATA code OGG.
The second-largest of the Hawaiian Islands, known for its diverse landscapes, including beaches, rainforests, and the Haleakalā volcano.
Maui is usually neutral to formal (geographic/tourism contexts); informal (in hawaiian cultural contexts) in register.
Maui: in British English it is pronounced /ˈmaʊ.i/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈmaʊ.i/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “Maui No Ka Oi (Maui is the best)”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think 'WOW-ee, that's Maui!' linking the /maʊ/ sound to an expression of amazement for a beautiful place.
Conceptual Metaphor
DESTINATION IS A PARADISE; ISLAND IS A PERSON (referring to the mythological demigod).
Practice
Quiz
In Hawaiian mythology, Maui is known for: