How Do You Spell TIKI TORCH?

Pronunciation: [tˈɪki tˈɔːt͡ʃ] (IPA)

The spelling of the word "tiki torch" can be understood through an IPA phonetic transcription. The first syllable, "ti," is pronounced as /ti/, with a short "i" sound. The second syllable, "ki," is pronounced as /ki/, with a short "i" sound and a hard "k" sound. The final syllable, "torch," is pronounced as /tɔrtʃ/, with the "or" sound similar to "aw" and the "ch" sound as a "tch" combo. This spelling accurately represents the sounds of the word "tiki torch."

TIKI TORCH Meaning and Definition

1. A tiki torch refers to a traditional Polynesian-inspired outdoor lighting fixture commonly used for decorative purposes, especially during evening gatherings or events held in outdoor settings. Typically made of bamboo, wood or metal, it consists of a long pole-like structure with a reservoir at one end for holding a flammable liquid such as paraffin oil. The other end is usually adorned with a decorative element, such as a carved wooden figure or a metal casing, often resembling a Polynesian god or a mythical creature known as a tiki.

   Tiki torches are primarily designed to provide ambient lighting and create a warm, inviting atmosphere. They are frequently utilized during tropical or beach-themed parties, luaus, garden parties, or as an element of outdoor landscaping. The oil-soaked wick, placed in the reservoir, is then ignited to produce a flame that burns steadily for several hours, emitting a soft, flickering glow.

   Apart from their functional purpose of illuminating outdoor spaces, tiki torches also have cultural significance. They are associated with Hawaiian and Polynesian culture and are often used to evoke a tropical or exotic ambiance. Tiki torches have become a popular symbol of outdoor relaxation, invoking a sense of escape and capturing the essence of a summer paradise.

Etymology of TIKI TORCH

The word "tiki" comes from the Maori language, which is spoken by the indigenous people of New Zealand. In Maori culture, "tiki" refers to a carved figure representing a human or ancestral deity. These figures often have a distinct and stylized appearance, with prominent eyes, nose, and mouth.

The term "tiki torch" itself is believed to have originated in the United States, particularly associated with the Polynesian-themed movement of the mid-20th century. The use of torches resembling tikis became popular at outdoor gatherings and parties, adding an exotic and tropical ambiance. Over time, the term "tiki torch" became commonly used to describe any torch or lamp that embodies the style and spirit of Polynesian culture.