tangi

Dictionary of Australasian Words Phrases and Usages by Edward E. Morris

n.


(pronounced Tang-y)Maori word for a lamentation, a cry, or dirge.

1820. `Grammar and Vocabulary of Language of New Zealand'(Church Missionary Society), p. 207:

«Tangi, s. a cry or lamentation.»

1845. E. J. Wakefield, `Adventures in New Zealand,' vol. i.p. 194:

«They wrapped the mutilated corpse in his red blanket, and boreit, lashed to a tree, to the village, where the usual tangitook place.»

1873. Lieut. – Colonel St. John, `Pakeha Rambles through MaoriLands,' p. 154:

«Shortly afterwards a `tangi' was held over those of the partywhose remains could be identified.»

1881. J. L. Campbell, `Poenamo,' p.191:

«Perhaps some old woman did a quiet tangi over his grave.»

1883. F. S. Renwick, `Betrayed,' p. 41:

«'Tis the tangi floats on the seaborne breeze,

In its echoing notes of wild despair.»