kava

[kah-vuh] /ˈkɑ və/
noun
1.
a Polynesian shrub, Piper methysticum, of the pepper family, the aromatic roots of which are used to make an intoxicating beverage.
2.
the beverage made from these roots.
Also called kavakava, kava-kava.
Origin
1810-20; < Polynesian (first recorded from Tonga Islands)
Related forms
Kavaic
[kuh-vey-ik] /kəˈveɪ ɪk/ (Show IPA), adjective
Examples from the web for kava
  • kava bowls are round wooden bowls lined with several short legs that come in various sizes.
  • kava, a drink made from the naturally intoxicating plant of the same name, is popular in social gatherings and ceremonies.
  • While it is known that kava has active chemical ingredients, it is not at all clear that they produce any common effects.
British Dictionary definitions for kava

kava

/ˈkɑːvə/
noun
1.
a Polynesian shrub, Piper methysticum: family Piperaceae
2.
a drink prepared from the aromatic roots of this shrub
Word Origin
C18: from Polynesian (Tongan): bitter