noun
Uncommon
Maori
MOW-ree
Maori (noun) means a member of the indigenous Polynesian people of New Zealand. Example: “Maori settled New Zealand centuries before European contact.”
noun
1
A member of the indigenous Polynesian people of New Zealand.
"Maori settled New Zealand centuries before European contact."
2
The Polynesian language spoken by the Maori people.
"Maori is one of New Zealand's official languages."
adjective
1
Relating to the Maori people, their culture, or their language.
"The museum has an excellent collection of Maori carvings."
How to use Maori
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishThe indigenous people, language, and culture of New Zealand.
Common mistake
Always capitalize Maori/Māori when referring to the people or language.
Vocabulary Flow
Build your vocabulary from words like Maori.
Vocabulary Flow serves the next word, and the next — meaning, pronunciation and an example each time. Practice at your level, or learn English in your own language.
Start vocabulary practice
Word forms
- Plural
- Maoris, Maories
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
_____ settled New Zealand centuries before European contact.
Etymology
From the Maori word māori itself, meaning "normal" or "native" — used to distinguish the indigenous people from later European settlers.
Rhymes for Maori
See all rhymes for Maori →Frequently asked questions
What does “Maori” mean?
The word “Maori” means a member of the indigenous Polynesian people of New Zealand. In plain terms, the indigenous people, language, and culture of New Zealand.
How do you pronounce “Maori”?
“Maori” is pronounced MOW-ree (/ˈmaʊɹi/ in IPA).
How do you use “Maori” in a sentence?
Here is “Maori” used in a sentence: “Maori settled New Zealand centuries before European contact.”
What part of speech is “Maori”?
Depending on how it is used, “Maori” can be a noun and an adjective.
Is “Maori” a common word?
“Maori” is an uncommon word in modern English.
How many meanings does “Maori” have?
“Maori” has 3 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a member of the indigenous Polynesian people of New Zealand.
Featured in
Vocabulary lists that include Maori:
