Reconstruction:Proto-Polynesian/kawa
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This Proto-Polynesian entry contains reconstructed terms and roots. As such, the term(s) in this entry are not directly attested, but are hypothesized to have existed based on comparative evidence. |
Proto-Polynesian edit
Etymology edit
From Proto-Central Pacific *kawa, from Proto-Oceanic *kawaʀ (“potent root”), doublet of *wakaʀ (“root”). (See entry “kava” on WP.)
Cognate with Mwotlap ga, Hiw ga and Lo-Toga gi < *kaya < *kawaʀ.
In the context of a pleasure activity, this word replaces *qapuʀ (“lime”), which refers to the lime used in betel chewing.
Noun edit
*kawa
Adjective edit
*kawa