Pronunciation: [kanˈɑːkə] (IPA) 
The word "Kanaka" is often spelled with a "k", but it can also be spelled with a "c". The correct spelling depends on the language being used. In English, the "k" is typically used, while in Hawaiian, the "c" is preferred. The IPA transcription for "Kanaka" is /kəˈnɑkə/, with a stress on the second syllable. The word is used to refer to a person of Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islander descent.
Kanaka is a term with multiple meanings depending on the region and context in which it is used. Primarily, it refers to the native people of the Pacific islands, particularly those of Melanesian or Polynesian descent. These indigenous populations can be found in countries such as Hawaii, Fiji, Samoa, and New Zealand, among others.
In Hawaii, specifically, the term "Kanaka" is used to describe the native Hawaiian people. They are descendants of Polynesian settlers who arrived in the islands thousands of years ago. Historically, Kanaka have a rich cultural heritage and have made significant contributions to the traditions, language, and identity of Hawaii.
The term "Kanaka" can also be used in a more general sense to refer to any Pacific Islander or person of Pacific Island descent. It is sometimes used in a more informal or colloquial manner to designate individuals who have a connection to this cultural and ethnic background.
However, it is important to note that the use of the term "Kanaka" is not universal, and its appropriateness may vary depending on the context and the preferences of the people to whom it refers. It is always recommended to be respectful and considerate when using such terminology to avoid any unintended offense or appropriation.
The word "Kanaka" has its origins in the Polynesian languages, specifically the Hawaiian language. It comes from the word "kanak", which means "human" or "person" in Hawaiian. The term was first used by Polynesians to refer to themselves and their kin, but with the arrival of European explorers and traders, it began to be used more broadly as a generic term for Pacific Islanders. Eventually, it spread beyond its original geographical context and became a more general term for people of Polynesian or Pacific Islander descent. In some instances, particularly in historical contexts, the word may carry derogatory connotations due to its misuse and associations with colonization.
