moko: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C2Formal, Academic, Cultural
Quick answer
What does “moko” mean?
Traditional Maori facial tattoo, a sign of status, identity, and heritage.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
Traditional Maori facial tattoo, a sign of status, identity, and heritage.
Any Maori tattoo, often extended to refer to similar cultural tattoo practices in Polynesia. Can be used informally in specific contexts to refer to Maori identity or heritage.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
More likely to be encountered in British and Commonwealth English due to stronger cultural/linguistic ties to New Zealand and Polynesia. In American English, it is a highly specialized term.
Connotations
In all contexts, carries connotations of indigenous culture, tradition, and identity. Inappropriate informal use can be seen as disrespectful.
Frequency
Very low frequency in general English. Higher relative frequency in New Zealand, Australian, and UK publications discussing Maori culture.
Grammar
How to Use “moko” in a Sentence
[to wear/have/receive] a mokothe moko [on/of] his facea moko [signifying/representing] lineageVocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “moko” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- The practitioner will moko the design using traditional tools.
American English
- She decided to get mokoed as a connection to her whakapapa.
adverb
British English
- Not applicable.
American English
- Not applicable.
adjective
British English
- The moko artist prepared the uhi (chisel).
American English
- He is a moko practitioner of great renown.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Rare. Possibly in tourism, cultural consultancy, or art/design sectors related to New Zealand.
Academic
Common in anthropology, ethnology, indigenous studies, and art history texts.
Everyday
Very rare outside New Zealand and communities familiar with Maori culture.
Technical
Used in specific discussions of tattooing techniques, pigment types, and cultural anthropology.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “moko”
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “moko”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “moko”
- Using 'moko' as a generic word for any tattoo.
- Pronouncing it as /ˈmɒkəʊ/ with equal stress on both syllables (incorrect) instead of the correct first-syllable stress.
- Failing to capitalize 'Maori' when discussing the origin.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No. 'Moko' specifically refers to the traditional tattoo practice of the Maori people of New Zealand, particularly facial tattoos. It has deep cultural and spiritual significance that distinguishes it from general tattooing.
This is a complex cultural issue. Traditionally, moko is for Maori as an expression of identity and genealogy. Non-Maori receiving designs inspired by moko without understanding or connection is often considered inappropriate cultural appropriation. Consult Maori cultural authorities for guidance.
'Moko' refers to Maori tattooing that conveys specific information about identity and ancestry. 'Kirituhi' translates as 'drawn skin' and can refer to tattoo art that uses Maori designs but is not applied under the same traditional protocols and may be worn by non-Maori.
In British English, it is pronounced /ˈmɒkəʊ/ (MOCK-oh). In American English, it is /ˈmoʊkoʊ/ (MOH-koh). The first syllable is always stressed, and the 'o' sounds are distinct.
Traditional Maori facial tattoo, a sign of status, identity, and heritage.
Moko is usually formal, academic, cultural in register.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “Not applicable for this cultural term.”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of 'MO' as in MOtif and 'KO' as in taKO (a spiral shape common in the designs). A MOKO is a MOTIF of spirals (KO) on the face.
Conceptual Metaphor
MOKO IS A LIVING MAP (of ancestry, status, and personal journey).
Practice
Quiz
In which context is the term 'moko' most accurately used?