luau

noun

lu·​au ˈlü-ˌau̇ How to pronounce luau (audio)
Synonyms of luaunext
: a Hawaiian feast

Examples of luau in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Gershon fondly remembered when Drysdale held a luau at the bar and encouraged her to ride a mechanical bull. — Tess Kenny, Chicago Tribune, 4 Feb. 2026 Pull up a chaise longue on Kauna'oa Beach, play a few rounds of golf, or grab a bite at one of the hotel’s three restaurants, plus a weekly clambake and twice-weekly luau. — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 24 May 2026 Luau – Celebrating its decennial this year, Aulani's on-property luau had a strong sense of place. — Kathleen Wong, USA Today, 15 June 2026 The post, with a photo of a beaming Rauber in front of crystal blue water, spoke of a family vacation in Maui with Rauber dancing at a luau. — Eric Adler, Kansas City Star, 26 Jan. 2026 See All Example Sentences for luau

Word History

Etymology

Hawaiian lū'au

First Known Use

1853, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of luau was in 1853

Rhymes for luau

See All Rhymes for luau

Browse Nearby Words

Luanda
luau
lub
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Luau.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/luau. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

luau

noun
lu·​au ˈlü-ˌau̇ How to pronounce luau (audio)
: a Hawaiian feast

More from Merriam-Webster on luau

Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for luau

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about luau

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