Word of the Day, May 23: Lei

Word of the Day: LEI
Pronunciation: UK/ˈleɪ.iː/ or US/ˈleɪ.iː/

Meaning:

A lei is a decorative garland or wreath, usually made of flowers, leaves, shells, feathers, or beads, traditionally worn around the neck.

Examples for daily usage:

• They welcomed us at the airport with beautiful flower leis.
• My cousin wore a graduation lei made of orchids.

Origin and history:

The word “lei” comes from the Hawaiian language. Ancient Polynesian settlers brought the tradition of making and wearing leis to the Hawaiian Islands centuries ago.

Leis were made from natural materials found on the islands.

Today, different islands in Hawaii became known for different lei styles and flowers.

Chiefs, dancers, travelers, and guests were often honored with leis.

The practice became globally famous through Hawaiian tourism and cultural celebrations.

Also read May 19 word of the day

Cultural significance and modern usage:

Historically, leis were worn by aliʻi (chiefs) to signify their elevated social status and divine connection to the gods. They were also used to signify peace agreements between competing tribes.

Traditionally, the materials used held deep significance. Feathers symbolized royalty and power, shells represented the bounty of the ocean, and seeds reflected fertility and growth.

Crafting and exchanging leis is an act of affection, greeting, or farewell. A traditional presentation involves tying the lei around the neck and giving a honi (a traditional touching of noses) to exchange breath, the life force.

Today, exchanging leis is deeply ingrained in daily and ceremonial Hawaiian life. They are widely gifted at major milestones such as graduations, weddings, birthdays, and even funerals to express deep emotional bonds and well wishes.

Popularized globally during the mid-20th century, leis are now commonly placed around the necks of arriving visitors as a gesture of warm hospitality.

Lei, celebrated annually on May 1st in Hawaii, this modern civic holiday is dedicated entirely to celebrating the art of lei making, with festivals, competitions, and parades.

Interesting facts:

• In Hawaii, giving someone a lei is considered a gesture of affection and respect.
• Different flowers used in leis carry different meanings.
• Orchid leis are among the most popular because they last longer.
• Traditional leis were sometimes made from feathers and shells, not just flowers.
• Refusing a lei in Hawaiian culture can be considered impolite.
• Some modern graduation leis are made from candy, money, or even folded currency notes.

Examples from literature:

1. Kui oe a lawa 10I lei no ku'u aloha; malama malie oe i ka makemake, I lei hooheno no ke aloha ole.- Unwritten Literature of Hawaii: The Sacred -Songs of the Hula by Emerson
2. Wearing the traditional crisp white barong shirt and often sporting a lei of flowers, he looked fit and handsome and was always smiling.-Endgame by Frank Brady
3. He gathers my hair into his hands and caresses the back of my neck before letting the lei fall into place.- Everything, Everything by Nicola Yoon
4. Negli occhi porta la mia donna Amore; Per che si fa gentil eio ch'ella mira: Ov'ella passa, ogni uom ver lei si gira, E cui saluta fa tremar lo core. -Middlemarch by George Eliot

Synonyms

• Garland
• Necklace
• Collar

Read more word of the day here