Mahina ʻŌlelo Hawaiʻi

Celebrate Mahina ʻŌlelo Hawaiʻi with NOHO HOME's word of the day. In Pepeluali (February) learn Hawaiian words for decor and products. Follow along on Instagram and in store.

Day 1

Noho
Seat, chair, to live, reside, to dwell
Example: Noho Mālie, To keep still or calm

“Noho in ʻŌlelo Hawaiʻi means, amongst other things, to dwell, to reside, to be from, to live within, to sit - perhaps with a feeling, and really that’s the spirit behind NOHO HOME and that’s what we envisioned bringing to not only our community but a global audience to be able to share from a Native Hawaiian’s love for our islands.” - Jalene Kanani

Day 2

ʻAkahi
First or one

Jalene has spoken about this pattern being inspired by a visit to the Museum of Natural History and seeing similarities in the indigenous art of Turtle Island and Hawaiians. The name ‘Akahi is a nod to first peoples and first nations.

Day 3

Niho
Tooth

Niho Manō, shark teeth, are featured in one of our most beloved motifs: Niho Medallion. Also seen in our Maluhia, the niho manō represents the Kū energy that brings strength and protection.

Day 4

Kalo
Taro

Kalo is foundational to the Hawaiian worldview -not only as a source of food but also a source of life. Kalo represents the relationship between kanaka and ʻāina told in the story of Hāloa, the first Hawaiian.

Day 5

Pili
To cling, to be close, a type of grass

Our pili pattern is featured on the reversible side of our Maluhia bedding. Pili represents being close with those you love in your sacred space. Pili grass, an indigenous plant, was also used for the roofs of homes and for beds.

Day 6

Kanu
To plant

This is the name of our logo which is inspired by ʻAwapuhi (ginger).

Day 7

Nahenahe
Soft, sweet, gentle, melodious

The Nahenahe print evokes feelings of calm and serenity through line work and colors that combine like the beautiful notes of a song. Organic shapes are calming and melodious.

Day 8

Pīʻāpā
Alphabet

Pronounced pee-ahhpahh. In celebration of the 200th anniversary of the printing press, we present the Pīʻāpā Throw. The floral motif speaks to traditional Hawaiian Quilting and is a nod to the art of quilting introduced by the missionaries in the 19th century. A stylized design of the pīʻāpā (Hawaiian alphabet) can be seen repeated through the background.

Stay tuned for more Hawaiian language...