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 Don't come to the Feast at Lele expecting plastic leis, screaming children, and a sad buffet line; rather, this is a quintessential Maui luau without the cheesiness. Todd Plummer, Condé Nast Traveler, 30 Jan. 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 The hotel’s amenities also got a glow-up, with new offerings like a weekly luau spotlighting Pacific music and dance. Beth Luberecki, USA Today, 20 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

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Luau.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/luau. Accessed 14 Feb. 2026.

Kids Definition

luau

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

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