“Aloha oe” is a phrase that is commonly associated with Hawaii, and it is often used as a greeting or farewell. However, the phrase has a deeper meaning that goes beyond its use as a simple salutation. In this article, we will explore the definition and meaning of “aloha oe,” its origin, and its associations.
Definitions
The phrase “aloha oe” is often translated as “farewell to thee” or “goodbye to you.” However, the meaning of the phrase goes beyond its literal translation. “Aloha” is a Hawaiian word that is often used to express love, affection, and peace. “Oe” is a pronoun that means “you.” Therefore, “aloha oe” can be translated as “love and peace be with you.”
Origin
The phrase “aloha oe” was composed by Queen Liliuokalani, the last monarch of the Kingdom of Hawaii. The queen was a talented musician and composer, and she wrote the song “Aloha Oe” in 1878. The song was a farewell to a lover, but it became a popular song that was played at many occasions, including funerals and graduations.
Meaning in different dictionaries
In Merriam-Webster’s dictionary, “aloha oe” is defined as “farewell to thee.” In the Oxford English Dictionary, it is defined as “a Hawaiian farewell song.” However, these definitions do not capture the deeper meaning of the phrase.
Associations
The phrase “aloha oe” is often associated with Hawaii and its culture. It is a symbol of the aloha spirit, which is a concept that embodies love, compassion, and kindness. The phrase is also associated with the beauty of Hawaii and its natural environment.
Synonyms
Some synonyms of “aloha oe” include “mahalo,” which means “thank you,” and “aloha nui loa,” which means “much love and affection.”
Antonyms
There are no direct antonyms of “aloha oe,” as it is a phrase that expresses positive emotions and sentiments.
The same root words
The word “aloha” is derived from the Proto-Polynesian word “qarofa,” which means “love, affection.” The word “oe” is a pronoun that is used in many Polynesian languages to mean “you.”
Example Sentences
- “Aloha oe, my friend. I hope to see you again soon.”
- “The beauty of Hawaii is captured in the song ‘Aloha Oe.'”.
- “The aloha spirit is an important part of Hawaiian culture.”