momona

In Hawaiian, "momona" literally translates to fat, sweet, fertile, or rich. In modern Pidgin, it is most commonly used as an adjective to describe someone or something that is physically plump, chubby, or overweight. While it can be used affectionately among close family members—like an aunty pinching a baby's cheeks and calling them momona—it can easily cross the line into being offensive if directed at an adult stranger or used mockingly to call someone obese. Beyond physical appearance, locals frequently use the word to describe rich, heavy, and delicious foods, or a particularly fat and healthy catch from hunting or fishing. Culturally, the concept of momona historically carried positive connotations of health, prosperity, and abundance in ancient Hawaii, reflecting a time when being well-fed was a sign of high status and a thriving community.

"You call that one catch?" Nelson sneered, pointing his tabako at the silver papio flopping in the bucket. "Back in the day, we throw that size back. That’s bait, brah." He leaned against the tailgate of his rusted Tacoma, parked right off the rocks near Port Allen, making sure the other fishermen heard him.

Maka just shook his head, wiping his hands on a stained rag. He didn't say a word, just walked over to his own truck and dropped the tailgate with a heavy clang. He hauled out a massive, silver-blue ulua, the belly thick and wide, slapping it down onto the cutting board. The wet thud echoed over the crashing waves.

"Now that," Maka said, crossing his arms and staring Nelson dead in the eye, "is one momona fish. Look the belly on that buggah. Your little papio going need a magnifying glass just to see um." Nelson shut his mouth, suddenly very interested in retying his leader.