Pidgin, brah! What's the meaning of Pohō in Hawaii?
The Difference a Line Makes: Poho vs. Pohō
The meaning of this word changes completely depending on the kahakō (the line over the 'o').
1. Pohō (The Pidgin Meaning):
When locals say "Ah, so poho!", they use the word Pohō (Loss/Damage). This refers to something wasted, useless, or "out of luck."
2. Poho (The Hawaiian Meanings):
Without the line, poho is a versatile word often meaning "hollow," "container," or "depression."
- Poho kai: A hollow where the sea remains at low tide.
- Poho lima: The hollow of the hand (palm).
3. The Real "Poho Place":
The street Poho Place (near Mama's Fish House and Hoʻokipa) is named after the geography of the coastline. It refers to the small protected cove and the large tide pool formed in the coral reef, literally a "container" (poho) for the ocean water.
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