whakapapa

English

Etymology

Borrowed from Maori whakapapa.

Pronunciation

• IPA^(key): [ˈɸakaˌpapa]

Noun

whakapapa (usually uncountable, plural whakapapas)

1. Genealogy, a fundamental principle of Māori culture that is critical in establishing one's identity.

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Maori

Etymology

whaka- (“to make”) +‎ papa (“flat and broad; a layer”)

Verb

whakapapa

1. To lie flat or to lay flat.
2. To lay low or to strike down.
3. To place in layers or to lay one upon another.
4. To recite in order (genealogies, legends, etc.)

Noun

whakapapa

1. Genealogy, genealogical table, descent, lineage.