1 Resources to Learn Hawaiian for Free

About the Hawaiian Language

The Hawaiian language, known as ʻŌlelo Hawaiʻi, is a Polynesian language with a unique cultural and historical significance. It is the native language of the Hawaiian Islands, where it holds official status alongside English.

Currently, there are approximately 24,000 speakers of the Hawaiian language. While it faced a decline in the past due to historical events, efforts have been made to revitalize and preserve the language, resulting in a growing number of learners and speakers.

The origins of the Hawaiian language can be traced back to the Polynesians who first settled the Hawaiian Islands around 1,500 years ago. The language evolved over time, developing its own distinct vocabulary, grammar, and pronunciation.

Hawaiian is known for its melodic sounds and unique alphabet, which consists of eight consonants (H, K, L, M, N, P, W, and ʻokina) and five vowels (A, E, I, O, U). The ʻokina is a glottal stop symbol that represents a brief pause or catch of breath.

Hawaiian is not only spoken in the Hawaiian Islands but also by the Hawaiian diaspora in various parts of the world, particularly in the United States, where there are significant Hawaiian communities.

Exploring the Hawaiian language provides a deeper understanding of Hawaiian culture, history, and the close connection between the Hawaiian people and their natural surroundings. It allows individuals to engage with traditional chants, songs, and stories that are an integral part of Hawaiian heritage.