luau
luau Lexical Profile
luau Game Scores & Validity
• noun
American A traditional Hawaiian feast or party, typically featuring lively Polynesian music, hula dancing, and customary foods such as kalua pig and poi.
"During our vacation in Maui, we attended a spectacular beachfront luau to celebrate my parents' anniversary."
American The edible young leaves of the taro plant, traditionally cooked with coconut milk and often served at Hawaiian feasts.
"The chef prepared a traditional dish of chicken wrapped in luau and baked it slowly until the leaves were completely tender."
Word Origin & Etymology
Borrowed from Hawaiian 'lūʻau', which originally referred to the edible young leaves of the taro plant. Because these leaves were a staple dish at traditional Hawaiian gatherings, the name eventually became synonymous with the feast itself.
Usage Trend
Historical frequency of usage in published text.