Pronunciation: [wˈaha͡ɪn] (IPA) 
The spelling of the word "wahine" might seem a bit tricky. However, the IPA phonetic transcription can explain it easily. "Wahine" is a Māori word that refers to a woman. In IPA, "wahine" is spelled /wɑːˈhiːneɪ/. This means that the "w" is pronounced as "wh", the "a" sounds like the "a" in "father", and the "i" as the "ee" in "meet". The last syllable is pronounced as "nay". Therefore, "wahine" is pronounced as "wah-hee-nay".
Wahine is a noun primarily used in the New Zealand context to refer to a woman or a female. It is a term of Māori origin that has gained widespread usage in the country's English language. Historically, the word "wahine" held significant cultural and social connotations in Māori society, reflecting a degree of respect and admiration towards women.
In contemporary usage, "wahine" can denote a woman of any age, emphasizing their feminine identity. It is commonly used in everyday conversation and writing, including media, to refer to females in a respectful and inclusive manner. Though originating from Māori culture, it has become a mainstream term in New Zealand's English lexicon, transcending cultural boundaries.
The word "wahine" has evolved to be a symbol of empowerment, recognizing the importance and contributions of women in various spheres of life. It is sometimes employed as a modifier to describe specific roles or attributes associated with women, such as "wahine toa" (meaning a strong or brave woman), highlighting their courage and resilience.
In conclusion, "wahine" is a term originating from Māori culture, now widely used in New Zealand, to refer to women or females in a respectful and inclusive manner. It holds cultural significance and can also be employed to celebrate the strength and achievements of women in society.
The word "wahine" is of Maori origin, which is the indigenous Polynesian people of New Zealand. In the Maori language, "wahine" refers to a woman or a female. The word is commonly used in New Zealand and also in some parts of Hawaii, where it has a similar meaning.
