Word originating in ancient Hawaii and around Polynesia for a third-gendered person, that is, not male nor female, but both or neither.
In pre-contact Hawaii (before white explorers and missionaries brought their homophobia with them), mahus were considered special and assumed respected and traditional roles within the communities.
After colonization, it became common for "mahu" to be used pejoratively to refer mostly to gay men and drag queens, but sometimes also butch women, and transgendered people of all kinds.
Although it is now most commonly used in a disdainful way, some have decided to remember their history and reclaim the word with pride, calling themselves "mahu," just as the words, "queer," "fag," and "dyke," have been reclaimed by many.
In pre-contact Hawaii (before white explorers and missionaries brought their homophobia with them), mahus were considered special and assumed respected and traditional roles within the communities.
After colonization, it became common for "mahu" to be used pejoratively to refer mostly to gay men and drag queens, but sometimes also butch women, and transgendered people of all kinds.
Although it is now most commonly used in a disdainful way, some have decided to remember their history and reclaim the word with pride, calling themselves "mahu," just as the words, "queer," "fag," and "dyke," have been reclaimed by many.
"King Kamehameha I of Hawaii had mahus dwell near his house because he considered them lucky, and in Tahiti every village had one mahu because it was thought to be fortunate for the village."
by mahukane April 18, 2010
hawaiian for homosexual
by 808snause September 27, 2003
Male crossdresser common to Hawaii, particularly the Chinatown district of Oahu. Mahu are on the streets to perform skin flute renditions for a price. Most mahu are pretty rough looking and could probably kick the shit out of you if provoked.
Mahu are disliked by large local women because they buy up all the large size stylish shoes leaving only funky kine shoes that nobody like wear.
Mahu are disliked by large local women because they buy up all the large size stylish shoes leaving only funky kine shoes that nobody like wear.
a: Damn, dat lady sure got plenty make up and one short dress!
b: Dats no lady. Dats one mahu. She's a he and he could suck the chrome off a trailor hitch.
b: Dats no lady. Dats one mahu. She's a he and he could suck the chrome off a trailor hitch.
by wheaty May 29, 2005
by octopod August 20, 2004
by Pika & Kalani November 4, 2003
by James Clements January 28, 2005
by iamomega94 November 27, 2009