alii

noun

äˈlēˌē

variants or ariki

äˈrē(ˌ)kē

or arii

äˈrēˌē

plural alii or ariki or arii

: a Polynesian chief, noble, or king

Word History

Etymology

Hawaiian & Samoan ali'i, Maori & Rarotongan ariki, Tahitian ari'i

First Known Use

1825, in the meaning defined above

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