haka

Where does the word "haka" come from? It comes from Maori haka, and was adopted directly into English (1900s).

Haka’s story begins in Maori: haka meant “a ceremonial chant and dance.” A ceremonial dance with chanting, performed for various occasions. It reached English by 1900s as haka. Adopted internationally through New Zealand rugby and culture. Today, haka means a traditional Maori ceremonial dance with chanting and forceful movements.

1. Stage 1 · Maori · ancient haka "a ceremonial chant and dance", a ceremonial dance with chanting, performed for various occasions.
2. Stage 2 · English · 1900s haka "a Maori ceremonial war dance", adopted internationally through New Zealand rugby and culture.