“Ohana” is a Hawaiian word that means family not just your relatives. It also includes close friends, loved ones, or anyone who has a special place in your heart.
In Hawaiian culture, ohana goes far beyond biology. It’s about love, loyalty, and support. Whether you’re related by blood, marriage, or simply by bond, you’re part of someone’s ohana if you matter deeply to them.
Where Did “Ohana” Come From?
The word “ohana” comes from the native Hawaiian language and traditions. In Hawaiian belief systems, family and community are at the core of life.
The root of the word is “ʻohā,” which refers to the shoots of the taro plant. Taro is a sacred plant in Hawaii, and its offshoots represent the way families grow and stay connected.
Like taro plants spread from a common root, families and communities grow from shared origins. This is the deeper symbolic power behind the meaning of ohana.
Ohana and Pop Culture: The Lilo & Stitch Effect
The word “ohana” gained worldwide attention thanks to the Disney movie Lilo & Stitch. In the film, the phrase is used repeatedly:
“Ohana means family. Family means nobody gets left behind or forgotten.”
This simple line captured hearts and helped turn “ohana” into a popular saying—even outside Hawaii. Many people now use it in casual slang to describe their chosen family, especially in tight-knit friend groups or fan communities.
Because of this, “ohana” has taken on a second life as modern slang, especially online, on social media, and even in tattoo culture.
Is Ohana a Slang Term?
While ohana is not originally slang, it’s often used like slang in non-Hawaiian communities. For example, someone might say, “You’re part of my ohana,” to a best friend or team member.
This casual use of a cultural term makes it feel like modern internet slang, even though it has deep roots and meaning.
Using ohana in this way shows how language evolves. Words with traditional cultural values can take on new life in popular culture, especially when they carry strong emotional messages.
Why Do People Get Ohana Tattoos?
“Ohana” tattoos have become very popular in recent years. They often reflect a person’s deep love for their family or their chosen circle of close friends. Some get the word “ohana” alone, while others pair it with:
- Symbols like waves, turtles, hearts, or hibiscus flowers
- Quotes, especially from Lilo & Stitch
- Dates or names of loved ones
These tattoos are often placed on the wrist, forearm, ribs, or collarbone—places close to the heart or easily visible. The meaning behind an ohana tattoo is almost always love, loyalty, and connection.
How Is Ohana Used in Daily Language?
Even outside Hawaii, people now use “ohana” in everyday talk to express belonging. Here are some examples:
- “Thanks for being part of my ohana.”
- “At our company, we treat each other like ohana.”
- “It’s not just about friendship—it’s about ohana.”
These expressions show how the ohana meaning has spread into global use, especially in emotional and team-based settings.
Cultural Respect and the Use of Ohana
It’s important to remember that ohana is more than just a trendy word. It comes from Hawaiian culture, which values strong ties, respect, and connection to land and family.
If you use or get a tattoo of the word, it’s good to understand and respect its original meaning. Being mindful of cultural roots honors the people who gave us this beautiful word.
Ohana in Business and Community
Many businesses in Hawaii—and even around the world—use the word “ohana” to describe their work culture. This word conveys a feeling of togetherness, respect, and loyalty among employees and customers.
It isn’t just a marketing word. In Hawaiian culture, it reflects a real approach to how people work and support each other.
Even outside of Hawaii, companies now use “ohana culture” as a model for building strong teams. Tech companies, restaurants, and nonprofits have embraced the ohana concept as a way to stay connected and focused on shared goals.
Benefits of Living with the Ohana Spirit
Here’s a quick table that breaks down the benefits of living by the ohana meaning:
| Benefit | Description |
| Stronger relationships | Helps create bonds based on loyalty and care |
| Better teamwork | Encourages unity and support in work or school groups |
| Emotional well-being | Provides a sense of belonging and acceptance |
| Community growth | Builds stronger, more connected neighborhoods |
| Personal identity | Gives people a feeling of purpose and connection |
Conclusion
The meaning of ohana is powerful. It teaches us that family isn’t just about who you’re born to—it’s also about who’s there for you.
Whether you’re talking about lifelong friends, a supportive team, or a loving partner, ohana is about sticking together and lifting each other.
Ohana is a word full of heart. Whether you use it in conversation, get it tattooed, or live by it every day, it reminds you that no one gets left behind.
