stout

In Hawaii, "stout" is primarily used by locals, particularly blue-collar workers, farmers, and older generations, to describe something or someone that is exceptionally strong, thick, or durable. While in standard English the word often implies being overweight or plump, in Hawaiian Pidgin it carries a distinct tone of respect for physical toughness and resilience. It is highly appropriate when complimenting a well-built truck, a heavy piece of furniture, or a muscular person, but it should be avoided if the listener might misinterpret it as a negative comment on their weight. The usage stems from older English definitions of the word meaning "brave" or "resolute," which evolved in the islands' plantation and agricultural eras to simply mean physically robust and hard to break.

Ashley wiped the red dirt off her boots and pointed at the massive kiawe stump sitting in the middle of the Kihei job site. "No way you guys moving dat by yourselves," she challenged, crossing her arms. "Dat buggah stay stout. We need the backhoe."

Rosa scoffed, adjusting her safety glasses. "You just weak, Ash. Me and Kristi grew up hauling feed bags in Makawao. Dis stump ain't nothing." She slapped the side of the wood, trying to look unfazed even though her hand stung from the impact. "Watch us."

Kristi grabbed the other side of the root ball, gritting her teeth as she dug her boots into the gravel. "One, two, three, lift!" she yelled. The stump barely shifted an inch before both women dropped it, gasping for air. Ashley just laughed from the tailgate of her Tacoma. "Told you! Too stout for you two. Next time, listen to the boss."