bula

Bula is a term most widely recognized as a greeting in Fiji and other Pacific contexts. In the Fijian language, bula literally means life, and it is used to convey wishes for health and well-being. As a common greeting, it functions in daily conversation, business transactions, and tourism interactions, often serving as both hello and farewell. The phrase Bula Vinaka—combining bula with vinaka, meaning thanks—is a typical expression of warm hospitality.

Cultural role and usage. Bula embodies hospitality and social friendliness in Fijian culture. It appears in conversations, at hotels and shops, and in promotional material to signal a welcoming atmosphere. The word is frequently heard in tourist areas and is part of the hallmark Fiji experience for visitors.

Other uses. Beyond Fiji, bula may appear as a personal name or surname in various cultural contexts, and as a toponym or brand name in unrelated languages. Because the term has multiple origins and meanings outside Fijian usage, its interpretation can vary with local language and context. In popular culture and media, bula is sometimes adopted as a generic word associated with island hospitality, even when not tied to its original Fijian meaning.

See also. Vinaka, moce. The entry reflects the primary sense of bula as a Fijian greeting tied to life and well-being, while noting its broader appearances in names and branding.