kuhina

Kuhina is a historical term from the Hawaiian language used to refer to a high-ranking political office in the Kingdom of Hawaii, most often associated with the title Kuhina Nui, or "prime minister" and "queen regent." In practice, the kuhina nui served as a co-regent, overseeing government affairs, diplomacy, and religious matters, and could wield power comparable to the aliʻi nui (the king).

The office emerged in the late 18th century during Kamehameha I's consolidation of power and centralization of authority on the islands. The best known holder of the title was Kaʻahumanu, who served as kuhina nui and regent after Kamehameha I's death, shaping reforms and policy during the early years of the Hawaiian Kingdom. The kuhina nui played a key role in the abolition of the ancient kapu system and in the development of early constitutional governance.

With the adoption of a constitution in 1840 and subsequent reforms, the political role of the kuhina nui diminished, and the title gradually fell from official use by the mid- to late 19th century. Today, kuhina nui remains a historical term, referenced in discussions of Hawaiian governance and monarchy, rather than a living office.

Etymology and usage: The exact origin of the word kuhina is uncertain, but the term is well-attested in historical sources from the 18th and 19th centuries. Kuhina nui is often translated as "prime minister" or "queen regent," reflecting its function as a high-ranking, co-regent authority within the Hawaiian political system. See also: Aliʻi nui, Kaʻahumanu, Kamehameha I, Hawaiian monarchy.