Aloha
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
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For other uses, see Aloha (disambiguation).
Aloha in the Hawaiian language means affection, love, compassion, mercy, goodbye, and hello, among other sentiments of a similar nature. It is used especially in Hawai'i as a greeting meaning hello and goodbye. Variations occur based on circumstances when used as a salutation. Aloha kakahiaka is the phrase for good morning. Aloha auinala is the phrase for good afternoon. Aloha ahiahi is the phrase for good evening. Aloha kakou is a common form of welcome to all.
It is also the state nickname of Hawaii, being the "Aloha State".
[edit] Spirit
Over the decades the word aloha has been used in reference to a complex state of mind called the Aloha Spirit or sense of aloha. The Aloha Spirit is often described as a sense of care and hospitality to those around as well as respect for their personhood, even in the face of stressful environments, occasions or people. It is from the Aloha Spirit that the State of Hawai'i gets its official nickname, The Aloha State. Also inspired by the Aloha Spirit was the naming of the Aloha Stadium in the Honolulu suburb of Salt Lake, Aloha Airlines and Aloha Tower at Honolulu Harbor.
[edit] Trends
Recent trends are popularizing the term elsewhere in the United States. Popular entertainer, Broadway star and Hollywood actress Bette Midler, born in Honolulu, uses the greeting frequently in national appearances. The word is also used frequently in the hit television drama Hawaii Five-O. The Aloha Spirit is a major concept in Lilo and Stitch, a very popular Disney series of movies and TV shows, set in Hawaii.
[edit] Songs featuring Aloha
Arguably the most famous historical Hawaiian song, Aloha 'Oe was written by the last queen of Hawaii, Liliʻuokalani.
