Tongan Words for Family: Learn Common Tongan Family Vocabulary

Tongan Words for Family

Learning Tongan words for family members is an important way to understand both the Tongan language and culture. In this video, we introduce common family vocabulary that learners can use in everyday conversations.

Family plays a central role in Tongan society, where each family member has responsibilities and a place within the traditional social structure. In many Tongan families, women often hold a respected and significant role within the family hierarchy.

For example, the mehekitanga (the eldest paternal aunt) is often regarded as the fahu, a highly respected figure within the extended family. The fahu holds an important ceremonial role during special occasions such as weddings, funerals, and other family gatherings.

By learning Tongan words for family members, learners can gain a deeper appreciation of Tongan culture, identity, and traditions.

Below are the common Tongan family words introduced in this video:

1. Fāmili  –  Family
2. Fahu  –  Father’s oldest sister
3. ‘Ulumotu’a  –  Head of the Paternal Family
4. Mātu’a  –  Parents
5. Tamai  –  Father (also fathers brothers and male cousins)
6. Fa’ē  –  Mother
7. Tokoua  –  Brother of a male or sister of a female
8. Tuofefine  –  Sister of a male
9. Tuonga’ane Brother of a female
10. Tokoua’aki   –  Cousin
11. Tehina  –  Younger sibling (same gender as you)
12. Ta’okete  –  Older sibling (same gender as you)
13. Pēpē  –  Baby
14. Kui  –  Grandparent
15. Tamasi’i  –  Child or Boy
16. Ta’ahine  –  Girl
17. Tamaiki or Fanau   –  Children
18. ‘Ofefine  –  Daughter
19. Foha  –  Son
20. Mokopuna  –  Grandchild
21. Mehikitanga  –  Aunty (Paternal)
22. Fa’ētangata  –  Uncle (Maternal)

For more learning resources, visit our Tongan Language Page, where you can explore additional videos about the Tongan language and culture.