Hala

/ˈhɑːlə/ noun

Definition

A type of large tree found in South Asia and the Indian Ocean region, or a traditional Polynesian gathering place; also an Islamic term relating to permissibility.

Etymology

From Sanskrit/South Asian origins for the tree species. The Polynesian meaning comes from languages of the Pacific. The Islamic usage derives from Arabic ḥalāl (permissible).

Kelly Says

The hala tree produces a uniquely-shaped fruit and has been used for everything from food to boat-building in island cultures for millennia—it's so iconic that entire islands are named after it.

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