About Rapa Nui Dictionary
Preserving and promoting the language and culture of Easter Island
Our Mission
The Rapa Nui Dictionary project is dedicated to preserving, documenting, and promoting the indigenous language of Easter Island (Rapa Nui). Our mission is to create a comprehensive digital resource that serves both the local community and global learners interested in this unique Polynesian language.
Through our interactive dictionary, learning resources, and cultural context, we aim to contribute to the revitalization efforts of the Rapa Nui language, which is classified as endangered by UNESCO with fewer than 3,000 native speakers remaining.
The Dictionary Project
Our digital dictionary combines traditional lexicography with modern technology to create an accessible, interactive resource. Key features include:
- Comprehensive word entries with multiple definitions and cultural context
- Audio pronunciations by native speakers
- Example sentences showing words in context
- Bidirectional search (Rapa Nui to English and English to Rapa Nui)
- Interactive learning tools and structured courses
- Community contribution system to expand the dictionary
The Rapa Nui Language
Rapa Nui (Vananga Rapa Nui) is an Eastern Polynesian language spoken on Easter Island, a territory of Chile. The language is closely related to Tahitian and Marquesan, with influences from other Polynesian languages.
The language has faced significant challenges, including population decline in the 19th century, Chilean policies that discouraged its use, and the increasing influence of Spanish. However, recent revitalization efforts have led to its inclusion in school curricula and growing interest among younger generations.
Key Features of Rapa Nui Language
- Five vowels (a, e, i, o, u) that can be short or long
- 10 consonants (h, k, m, n, p, r, t, v, ʔ, ŋ)
- VSO (Verb-Subject-Object) word order
- Rich system of possessive markers
- Reduplication for plural forms and emphasis
Writing System
Modern Rapa Nui is written using the Latin alphabet. The language also has a traditional script called Rongorongo, which remains largely undeciphered and is one of the few indigenous writing systems developed in isolation in world history.
Our Team
The Rapa Nui Dictionary project brings together linguists, native speakers, educators, and technology specialists committed to language preservation and revitalization.
Dr. Ana Tepano
Lead Linguist & Native Speaker
Prof. Miguel Rapu
Cultural Historian
Sofia Hotu
Educational Director
Partners & Supporters
This project is made possible through collaboration with the following organizations:
- Rapa Nui Language Academy
- Easter Island Cultural Heritage Foundation
- Chilean Ministry of Education
- UNESCO Indigenous Languages Preservation Program
- Pacific Languages Digital Initiative
Contact Us
We welcome feedback, corrections, and contributions to improve the dictionary. Please reach out to us at:
Rapa Nui Dictionary Project
Email: contact@rapanuidictionary.org
Phone: +56 32 2100 773
Address: Atamu Tekena s/n, Hanga Roa, Easter Island, Chile