kehua
A Maori word used in New Zealand English for a ghost or evil spirit.
Definitions
A Maori word used in New Zealand English for a ghost or evil spirit. In Maori tradition, kehua are the spirits of the dead that may linger in the world of the living. The word is used in New Zealand English both in Maori cultural contexts and in general New Zealand conversation to refer to a ghost.
She said the old house was full of kehua and refused to go in after dark.
Comments
(New Zealand) A ghost; an evil spirit.
Kehua means: A ghost; an evil spirit.. It is mainly New Zealand English and may not be understood outside that context. There is no real cause for parental concern; it is descriptive vocabulary rather than risky behaviour. If your teen uses it, context will usually make the intent clear. A short, curious question about where they heard it is usually all that is needed to know whether to follow up.
kehua means: A ghost; an evil spirit.. Register: informal, New Zealand English. Often not understood outside its region; gloss the word on first use when writing for an international audience. A common learner mistake is using the word in a register it does not fit, or assuming a single global meaning; native speakers immediately notice when slang appears in formal contexts, so always check the surrounding register before producing it yourself.
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