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Ask the Big Kahuna
Response: Aloha Ernest, Thanks for sending your intriguing question to the Big Kahuna at BestPlacesHawaii.com. A conflict about the meaning of the names of the islands does exist and may have been the source of the confusion you noticed. Popular understandings about the origins of the islands' names, some reflected in respected writing, often go against Hawaiian language scholars. Most agree that 'Maui' comes from the name of a demi-god and that 'Lanai' is 'day of conquest', but the other major islands are a different story. Popular etymology tells us that 'Hawaii' meant 'burning Java' or 'little Java'; 'Oahu' meant 'gathering place'; and 'Kauai', 'food season'. According to Place Names of Hawaii by Puki, Elbert, and Mookini, none of these popular meanings can be supported linguistically, and the origins have faded unrecoverably into pre-history. The truth is - we just don't know! Whatever they meant at one time in the distant past, the islands of Hawaii mean beautiful locales, great activities, and outstanding hospitality today. Mahalo for your interest in the islands, and come back soon.   Explore more answers from the Big Kahuna...Do you have a question for the Big Kahuna? Click here to send him your question. Due to the great number of questions, the Big Kahuna will not be able to answer your questions personally. Questions of general interest will be answered in future issues of the free TNT NewsHawaii Travel newsletter, and then posted here.  Or plan your dream vacation through our Hawaii Travel Directory: Big Island | Kauai | Maui | Oahu
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