What is the meaning of alii nui in hawaiian?

"Aliʻi nui" in Hawaiian means "high chief" or "supreme ruler". It refers to the highest ranking chief in a Hawaiian lineage or kingdom.

The term "aliʻi" translates to "chief" or "noble," while "nui" means "big" or "great".

Therefore, "aliʻi nui" literally translates to "great chief" or "big chief," signifying the highest rank within the Hawaiian social hierarchy.