yaqona
- noun
- Australian
- The kava (in Fijian, yaqona) is mixed in a large wooden bowl or other suitable container and then offered to the most senior or highest-ranking man present.
Examples
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Indeed, in Fijian villages, virtually every day ends with men gathered around the yaqona bowl.
Academic text (1992) -
In this environment, ritualized yaqona drinking continues to underpin traditional principles of hierarchy.
Academic text (1992) -
The same procedure is repeated each time newcomers arrive with an additional offering of yaqona.
Academic text (1992) -
For this reason, yaqona is used by traditional curers and persons who would see beyond the normal confines of space and time.
Academic text (1992) -
To assess the role this ritual exchange plays in sustaining social hierarchy, it is useful to consider the changes that have occurred since the mid-1800s in the way in which yaqona is used.
Academic text (1992) -
During special gatherings, the villagers always share yaqona as a sign of respect and friendship.
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In Fijian culture, yaqona is often served during ceremonies to promote community bonding.
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After the ceremony concluded, everyone enjoyed a bowl of yaqona to celebrate the occasion.
Synonyms
4
9.9
A mild drink made from the roots of a South Pacific plant that makes you feel relaxed
An alcoholic drink made from roots of a South Pacific plant that can make your mouth feel numb during ceremonies
Surface Forms
Etymology
Yaqona comes from the Fijian language and names the traditional drink made from the kava root that people share at ceremonies, so think of it as 'Fiji's kava'.