waka Definition
- 1a Maori canoe
- 2a traditional Japanese poem consisting of 31 syllables in a 5-7-5 pattern
Using waka: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "waka" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
The waka is an important symbol of Maori culture.
Example
She wrote a beautiful waka about the changing seasons.
Phrases with waka
Example
He was criticized for waka jumping and switching sides too often.
waka hourua
a double-hulled canoe used by Polynesian voyagers for long-distance oceanic travel
Example
The waka hourua was used by early Polynesian explorers to navigate the Pacific Ocean.
waka ama
outrigger canoeing, a sport that involves racing canoes with outriggers
Example
Waka ama is a popular sport in New Zealand, especially among Maori communities.
Summary: waka in Brief
The term 'waka' [ˈwɑːkə] has two distinct meanings. It refers to a Maori canoe, which is an important symbol of Maori culture, and a traditional Japanese poem consisting of 31 syllables in a 5-7-5 pattern. 'Waka' also extends into phrases like 'waka jumping,' which denotes the act of changing political parties or affiliations, and 'waka ama,' which is a popular sport in New Zealand.