kava

[ kah-vuh ]

noun

1. a Polynesian shrub, Piper methysticum, of the pepper family, the aromatic roots of which are used to make an intoxicating beverage.
2. the beverage made from these roots.

kava

/ ˈkɑːvə /

noun

1. a Polynesian shrub, Piper methysticum: family Piperaceae
2. a drink prepared from the aromatic roots of this shrub

Other Words From

• Ka·va·ic [k, uh, -, vey, -ik], adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of kava¹

1810–20; < Polynesian (first recorded from Tonga Islands)

Word History and Origins

Origin of kava¹

C18: from Polynesian (Tongan): bitter

Example Sentences

One has Ambien and kava tea, one has espresso and Ritalin.

From New York Times

In 1915, Hollmann was the acting assistant surgeon at Hawaii’s Leprosy Investigation Station when he was given a copy of Ball’s master’s thesis, a 44-page analysis of the kava plant’s chemical properties.

From New York Times

Mr Yazbek adds that Kava - a local social drink made from the root or stump of the kava shrub - could be marketed far more widely than it currently is.

From BBC

Kava is grown in Hawaii and most of the Polynesian countries, particularly Fiji and Vanuatu, which has the most stringent regulations regarding the purity of its kava production and export.

From Seattle Times

They will likely conduct ritualistic dance, hold a procession, and display memorabilia of Prince Philip, while the men will drink kava, a ceremonial drink made from the roots of the kava plant.

From BBC