Short for 'braddah.' Origin: Hawaiian pigeon english, 1960's and later. Meaning: My brother/ close associate/ cousin/ or
Kama'aina (person FROM HAWAII). NOT used with outsiders unless they are close friends or have SOLID knowledge of
Hawai'i and its culture (except jokingly, offensively). Inappropriate use by outsiders may result in 'false crack' or scorn. Best avoided by mainland
haoles during break-in phase (your first 25 yrs in Hawaii).
Example:
What, brah, you get rollin'
pepa? (I lost my Zig-Zags by the bus stop. With the correct answer you could benefit from my predicament)
Eh brah, watchout! (Hey you - Look out!)
Brah, you always frickin' LATE. (Your frequent
tardiness is getting on my nerves)
Brah, try stan' up. You all
bus' arreddy. (It's time to go home, my friend.)