1. Chief or leader: This is the most common meaning of "matai." It refers to the head of a Māori clan or sub-tribe, and they hold significant authority and responsibility within their community.
2. High-ranking person: This meaning is related to the first, but can also apply to individuals who hold positions of leadership or influence within their community, even if they are not formally a chief.
3. Seed: While less common, "matai" can also refer to a seed or a plant's offspring.
4. Eye of a needle: This is a less frequent meaning, but it can be used in some contexts to describe the small opening of a needle.
In conclusion:
The most common and widely known meaning of "matai" is a chief or leader in Māori society. However, it's important to consider the context in which the word is used to determine its exact meaning.