(NZ) Genealogy, as a fundamental principle of Māori culture that is critical in establishing one's identity.
(NZ) Genealogy, as a fundamental principle of Māori culture that is critical in establishing one's identity.
Whakapapa means: Genealogy, as a fundamental principle of Māori culture that is critical in establishing one's identity.. 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.
whakapapa means: Genealogy, as a fundamental principle of Māori culture that is critical in establishing one's identity.. Register: neutral, standard English. 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.
Whakapapa means: Genealogy, as a fundamental principle of Māori culture that is critical in establishing one's identity.. 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.
Slang is read by different audiences for very different reasons. The For parents view re-explains the term in plain, non-judgemental language so a caregiver can understand what their child means without needing the surrounding subculture. The For English learners view focuses on register (when it's safe to use), formal alternatives, and common mistakes — what a textbook won't teach you.
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Regional slang from around the English-speaking world — British, Australian, Irish, Caribbean, Nigerian, Filipino, AAVE, and the hyphenated-English dialects that make the internet sound local.
See all Regional & Other slang on Slangora.
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A Māori word for extended family that has become part of everyday New Zealand English. Whanau goes beyond the nuclear family — it includes grandparents, aunties, uncles, cousins, and everyone connected by blood, marriage, or deep community ties. In New Zealand culture, your whanau is your support network, your identity, and your responsibility all rolled into one. The concept emphasises collective wellbeing over individual needs, which is central to Māori values.
(NZ) Among the Māori people, a philosophy or set of principles.
(New Zealand) An ancestor, especially a grandparent, in Maori culture.
(New Zealand) An extended family.
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