kā-

Hawaiian

Pronunciation

IPA^(key): /kaː./

Etymology 1

From Proto-Polynesian *ta(a)-. This etymology is incomplete. You can help Wiktionary by elaborating on the origins of this term.

Prefix

kā-

(unproductive) forms causative verbs
Synonym: hoʻo-

‎kā- + ‎hea → ‎kāhea (“to call, cry out”)

Derived terms

Hawaiian terms prefixed with kā- (causative)

Etymology 2

From a procliticisation of Proto-Polynesian *taa (“we (inclusive)”). For a similar formation, compare the Maori pronouns in Maori tā- (tātou, tāua). For a language which retains the Proto-Polynesian pronoun as an independent term, compare Tongan ta.

Prefix

kā-

(unproductive) forms inclusive pronouns

Derived terms

kākou
kāua