Our Most Frequently Asked Questions

Hula Terminology

You hear the Hawaiian language entertwined with the culture's dance. But do you know what they mean? Here are definitions for some of the terms.  

 

• Alaka'i - instructor; often used when referring to kumu hula's (teacher) assistant 
• Auana - modern version of the hula 
• Halau - Long house for canoes or hula instruction; hula school 
• Ho`i - exit (dancers can chant or have a song as they exit) 
• Ipuheke - gourd instrument without a top 
• Kahiko - traditional version of the hula 
• Ka`i - entrance (dancers can chant or have a song as they enter) 
• Kala`au - stick dancing 
• Kane - man or men 
• Kumu Hula - hula teacher 
• Mele - song 
• Oli - chant 
• Pahu - drum 
• Pahu Puniu - thigh drum 
• Pu'ili - dancing implement made with bamboo 
• `Uli`uli - gourd instrument with filled with seeds and topped with colorful feathers 
• Wahine - woman or women