kava
kava Lexical Profile
kava Game Scores & Validity
• noun
A traditional non-alcoholic, mildly psychoactive beverage prepared from the crushed roots of the kava shrub, culturally significant in South Pacific societies for its relaxing and sedative effects.
"During the traditional Fijian welcoming ceremony, the chief was presented with a ceremonial bowl of kava to share with the visiting dignitaries."
A tropical evergreen shrub (Piper methysticum) belonging to the pepper family, native to the South Pacific islands and cultivated for its thick, starchy roots.
"The villagers cultivated kava in the shaded, fertile valleys of the island to ensure a plentiful harvest for the upcoming festival."
• Rhymes for kava
Word Origin & Etymology
From Tongan and Marquesan 'kava' (intoxicating drink, bitter), derived from Proto-Polynesian '*kawa' (bitter, sour, toxic).