Kauai's Hanakapiai Falls is just one of many Hawaiian names that can be translated to English and vice versa.
'Ōlelo Hawai'i, or the Hawaiian language, is the official state language for Hawaii. Though not commonly used in everyday life, it was once widely spoken throughout the region and was used to write the Kingdom of Hawaii's constitution before it was overthrown by the United States. Recently, the Hawaiian language has gained popularity among the general populace. Many individuals love the language's smooth, flowing sound and poetic meanings. Learn convert English names to Hawaiian names to find out what your name sounds like in Hawaiian.
Instructions
1. Look up the name in a Hawaiian-English name book. These books list an English name, followed by its literal Hawaiian translation. Similarly, individuals can look up a Hawaiian name to read its English counterpart. Examples include "Hawaiian Names - English Names" by Eileen M. Root, published by Booklines Hawaii in 1987. Alternatively, some general baby name books include Hawaiian names. Typically, such selections are limited to more common English names such as John or Samantha. Examples include "Baby Names Made Easy: The Complete Reverse-Dictionary of Baby Names" by Amanda E. Barden, published by Fireside in 2009.
2. Research the name in a Hawaiian dictionary. This is useful for both looking up a name's literal meaning as well as its various permutations. A Hawaiian word can have many meanings depending on its context, and a Hawaiian dictionary often explores such contexts so you can appreciate the full meaning of a Hawaiian name. One of the most referenced Hawaiian dictionaries is the aptly-titled "Hawaiian Dictionary" by Mary Kawena Pukui and Samuel H. Elbert, published by the University of Hawaii in 1986. This hefty, 600-page book lists both English-Hawaiian translations and Hawaiian-English translations. Other Hawaiian dictionaries include the "New Pocket Hawaiian Dictionary: With Given Names in Hawaiian," a more concise copy of the former book by the same authors and published by the University of Hawaii in 1992.
3. Consult a language expert at the University of Hawaii's Ka Haka ʻUla O Keʻelikōlani (College of Hawaiian Language). Launched in 1997 in memory of Ruth Kanāhoahoa, a Hawaiian high chiefess who fought to protect the Native Hawaiian language, the school works to build and promote the use of Hawaiian.You may contact the language department at (808) 974-7339.
4. Check for the English name in an online catalog such as HawaiianStyle's list of English-Hawaiian names (see Resources). Locate your name in the alphabetical list and view its Hawaiian translation. However, this doesn't give you the Hawaiian meaning of the word. Consult Steps 1 to 3 to find not just your Hawaiian name, but also its meaning.
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