taiaha

/ ˈtaɪəˌhɑː /

noun

1. a carved weapon in the form of a staff, now used in Māori ceremonial oratory

Word History and Origins

Origin of taiaha¹

Māori

Example Sentences

I ask Taiaha Hawke, a Maori protocol expert drafted in to make sure Dotcom doesn't accidentally offend anyone.

From BBC

The taiaha is rather a long-handled club than a spear.

From Project Gutenberg

The men are placed at equal intervals along either side to paddle, and they keep excellent stroke to the song of two leaders, who stand up and recite short alternate sentences, giving the time with the taiaha, or long wooden spear.

From Project Gutenberg

In 1886, after the Taiaha of Wahanui presented to James Bryce had been refused, the Committee laid down that nothing but books, manuscripts, maps, etc., should be deposited without special permission.

From Project Gutenberg