To push or jab with a finger or pointed object. Can also refer to the Hawaiian dish of cubed raw fish, typically served with rice and vegetables.
The verb comes from Middle Dutch or Middle Low German 'poken' meaning 'to thrust.' The Hawaiian dish 'poke' (pronounced 'poh-kay') comes from Hawaiian 'poke' meaning 'to slice' or 'cut crosswise into pieces.'
This word demonstrates how identical spellings can have completely different origins and meanings - the English verb and Hawaiian noun are linguistic coincidences. Hawaiian poke has become a global food trend, introducing millions to both Hawaiian cuisine and the proper pronunciation of this traditional dish.
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