Polynesian: meaning, definitions and examples
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Polynesian
[ˌpɒlɪˈniːzɪən ]
Definitions
culture
relating to the islands of the central and southern Pacific Ocean, including Hawaii, New Zealand, Samoa, and Tonga
Synonyms
Pacific Islander, oceanic.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| Polynesian |
Used to describe peoples or cultures originating from the Polynesian subregion of Oceania, which includes islands such as Hawaii, Samoa, and New Zealand. Useful in academic or cultural discussions.
|
| Pacific Islander |
Used to describe people or cultures from any of the islands in the Pacific Ocean. It is a broader term than 'Polynesian' and includes Micronesian, Melanesian, and other island groups.
|
| oceanic |
Used to describe things related to the ocean, often in a broader or more scientific context. It's less specific than 'Polynesian' and usually covers anything pertaining to the oceanic environment.
|
Examples of usage
- The Polynesian culture is known for its rich traditions and vibrant dances.
- She wore a beautiful Polynesian necklace made of seashells.
- The Polynesian people have a strong connection to the ocean.
language
a member of the ethnic group that inhabits Polynesia
Synonyms
Pacific Islander.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| Polynesian |
Use 'Polynesian' when you are referring to the people, cultures, languages, or regions specifically within the larger group of Pacific Islands that includes countries like Samoa, Tonga, and Hawaii.
|
| Pacific Islander |
Use 'Pacific Islander' when you want to refer to the broader group of people from the Pacific Islands, which includes not only Polynesia, but also Melanesia and Micronesia. It's useful when you are speaking about the region as a whole or when specificity is not needed.
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Examples of usage
- The Polynesians have a unique language that is spoken across different islands.
- He is of Polynesian descent.
- The Polynesians are known for their navigational skills.
Interesting Facts
Etymology
- The term 'Polynesian' comes from the Greek words 'poly,' meaning many, and 'nesos,' meaning island.
- The name is often used to refer to a large region in the central and southern Pacific, which includes over 1,000 islands.
Cultural Heritage
- Traditional Polynesian navigation relied on stars, ocean currents, and bird movements, allowing them to travel vast ocean distances.
- Tapa cloth, made from the bark of trees, is a traditional craft of Polynesian cultures, often decorated with intricate designs and used for clothing and ceremonial purposes.
Diversity
- Polynesian cultures are incredibly diverse, with languages such as Hawaiian, Samoan, and Maori being spoken across different islands.
- Every island has unique customs, music, and dances, such as hula in Hawaii, which conveys stories and traditions through movement.
History
- Polynesians were some of the first people to settle in the Hawaiian Islands around 1,500 years ago, bringing their agricultural practices and lifestyle.
- In the 18th century, Captain James Cook's explorations brought significant European attention to Polynesia, impacting local ways of life.
Modern Influence
- Polynesian culture has influenced global art, music, and even cuisine, with dishes like poke and luaus gaining popularity worldwide.
- Today, there is a global movement to preserve and promote Polynesian languages and customs, as younger generations reconnect with their roots.
Translations
Translations of the word "Polynesian" in other languages:
🇵🇹 Polinésio
🇮🇳 पोलिनेशियन
🇩🇪 Polynesier
🇮🇩 Polinesia
🇺🇦 Полінезійський
🇵🇱 Polinezyjski
🇯🇵 ポリネシアの (Porineshia no)
🇫🇷 Polynésien
🇪🇸 Polinesio
🇹🇷 Polinezyalı
🇰🇷 폴리네시아의 (Pollinesia-ui)
🇸🇦 بولينيزي
🇨🇿 Polynéský
🇸🇰 Polynézsky
🇨🇳 波利尼西亚的 (Bōlìníxīyà de)
🇸🇮 Polinezijski
🇮🇸 Pólýnesískur
🇰🇿 Полинезиялық
🇬🇪 პოლინეზიელი (Polinezi'eli)
🇦🇿 Polineziya
🇲🇽 Polinesio