Pronunciation: [tˈɒŋɡən] (IPA) 
Tongan is spelled with six letters - T, O, N, G, A, N. The first two letters, 'TO', are pronounced as [tɒ], with the sound 't' followed by a short 'o'. The next two letters, 'NG', produce the sound [ŋ], which is the velar nasal consonant found in words like 'singer' or 'long'. The final two letters, 'AN', are pronounced as [æn], with a short 'a' sound followed by the sound 'n'. Together, the word is pronounced as [ˈtɒŋ.æn].
Tongan refers to the language, people, and culture of Tonga, a Polynesian kingdom located in the South Pacific Ocean. As a language, Tongan is a member of the Austronesian language family and is primarily spoken by the ethnic Tongan population in Tonga and the Tongan diaspora. It is also recognized as an official language in Tonga alongside English.
In terms of the people, Tongans are the indigenous inhabitants of the Tonga archipelago and are predominantly of Polynesian descent. They are known for their strong sense of community, family values, and dedication to cultural traditions. Extended family structures hold great importance in Tongan society, with concepts such as respect for elders and reciprocal obligations being deeply ingrained.
The Tongan culture is rich and diverse, with various customs, arts, and rituals. Traditional Tongan ceremonies, such as kava drinking and me'etu'upaki (a form of wrestling), play a significant role in preserving cultural identity. Tongan handicrafts, including woven mats, wooden carvings, and tapa cloth, demonstrate the artistic ingenuity of the Tongan people.
Tongan cuisine is renowned for its use of fresh seafood, root crops, and tropical fruits. Popular dishes include lu pulu (corned beef and taro leaves cooked in coconut cream), 'ota 'ika (raw fish marinated in lime juice), and feke (grilled or boiled octopus). These traditional foods reflect the abundant resources of the Tongan islands.
Overall, the term "Tongan" encompasses both a linguistic identity and a rich cultural heritage, representing the language, people, and customs of Tonga.
