Pronunciation: [kˈɪni] (IPA) 
The word "Kini" is spelled with the letters K-I-N-I. It is pronounced /ˈkɪni/ with a short "i" sound at the beginning and end. The "k" sound is pronounced with a sharp, hard consonant sound. This word has various meanings in different languages. In Swahili, it means "what", while in Hawaiian, it means "clothing". The spelling of "Kini" can sometimes be confusing due to the similar pronunciation of words such as "keenly" or "kinny".
Kini is a noun that refers to a traditional two-piece swimsuit worn by women. Specifically, it originated from Hawaii and gained popularity in the 20th century. The word "Kini" itself is derived from the English word "bikini," which is a similar two-piece swimwear style. However, the Kini has specific cultural and functional elements that differentiate it from a standard bikini.
Typically, a Kini consists of a bra-like top and a pair of briefs that cover the pelvic region, exposing the waistline. The design is often characterized by bold and vibrant patterns, reflecting the Hawaiian culture. It is commonly crafted using lightweight and stretchable materials to ensure comfort and ease of movement while swimming or participating in water activities.
Apart from its functional purpose, the Kini also holds cultural significance. In Hawaiian culture, it represents a connection to nature, the ocean, and the traditional lifestyle of the islands. It symbolizes freedom, confidence, and celebrates the natural beauty of a woman's body.
In recent years, the Kini has become a popular choice for swimwear worldwide, with many variations and modern adaptations available. It is frequently worn during beach vacations, pool parties, and various outdoor activities. The Kini has transcended its cultural origin to become a fashionable and trendy swimsuit style embraced by women of diverse backgrounds.
The word "kini" has multiple etymologies and can have different meanings depending on the context and language. Here are a few possible origins and meanings of "kini":
1. Maori: In the Maori language, "kini" refers to a kind of food basket or container made from woven flax. The etymology in this case would come from the Maori language.
2. Indonesian/Malay: In Indonesian and Malay, "kini" means "now" or "at this time". It comes from the Old Malay word "kininah" which means "now". This etymology is particularly related to the meaning of "kini" as "now".
3. Filipino: In Filipino, "kini" can be a pronoun that refers to "this" or "these" in certain dialects like Cebuano and Waray.
