Waiata
A very, very, VERY old word that is actually two words which has an extensive meaning, the modern pseudo/inaccurate meaning we know it commonly as, is song. But before the guitar the Maori word for song was aniani which actually means chant.So I will break down the two words:
Wai (pronounced as why) =
Memory, Recollection of words, Instruction given, Water, Fishing net.
Ata (pronounced as utter, except without the rrrrr in the end,) =
Care/careful, deliberation(referring to slow and careful movement), thoroughness, gentle, slow, clear open without concealment. Deliberate. Form, shape as opposed to substance. Reflected image. Early morning/dawn
Similar to the Japanese we write our words/sentences backwards, referring to english grammar. So the pseudonym is ata wai.
So in summary:
The pronunciation is short and sharp and is said as one word without the rrrrr at the end
Waiata (why-utter) = A careful deliberation, gentle clear and open without concealment, both in form and shape done in the early mornings. Of a memory, recollection of words, or instruction given. From Our Father. aka Water of Heaven.
Comments (6)
But when we say waiata we refer to Maori songs, by default. Well at least most of us do.and other times its mixed with english eg:
"Whats the name of that waiata again by Maroon 5?"