Word
manu
Phoneticsmanu
/ˈmɑˌnu/
Definition
n. a traditional law or custom in some cultures, especially in the Pacific islands. It often refers to a rule that people must follow to show respect or stay safe.
n. a traditional law, custom, or set of social protocols within various Polynesian and Māori cultures. Often carries a sense of spiritual authority or prohibition similar to the concept of 'taboo'.
Examples
“The community follows the ancient manu to protect the forest.”
“The tribal elders met to discuss whether the current manu regarding fishing rights should be updated for the modern season.”
“Scholars of Pacific sociology often examine how traditional manu functions as a regulatory framework for environmental conservation and social cohesion within indigenous communities.”
Examples
simple
“The community follows the ancient manu to protect the forest.”
contextual
“The tribal elders met to discuss whether the current manu regarding fishing rights should be updated for the modern season.”
complex
“Scholars of Pacific sociology often examine how traditional manu functions as a regulatory framework for environmental conservation and social cohesion within indigenous communities.”
Usage
Typically used in anthropological or cultural contexts specifically relating to Polynesian societies.
Etymology
Transliteration of Sanskrit मनु (manu, “man, mankind”). Doublet of man.
Abbreviation of Emmanuel.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.