Aulu

/ˈɑːluː/ noun

Definition

A Samoan or Pacific Islander term for a prestigious title or chief, distinct from political authority but carrying significant cultural respect.

Etymology

From Samoan/Pacific Island languages, related to concepts of honor and social hierarchy. The word reflects indigenous Oceanic social structures pre-dating European colonization.

Kelly Says

An aulu represents a form of social power that doesn't depend on official government position—it's pure cultural respect, which shows that power structures existed long before colonial systems arrived in the Pacific.

Related Words

Explore More Words

Get the Word Orb API

Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.