A handful of Dhivehi words show up constantly across Maldives travel content — often used without translation, on the assumption you already know them. This page collects the ones that matter most for a visitor, in one place.
Geography
- Atoll — a ring-shaped structure of reef and islands enclosing a lagoon; the basic unit the whole country is organised around. (The word itself entered English from Dhivehi.) See our atolls & islands section.
- Kandu — a channel, typically where an atoll's reef rim opens to the ocean; the site of the strongest currents and the biggest marine life. See our diving guide.
- Thila — a submerged reef pinnacle rising from deeper water without breaking the surface, and a distinctive Maldives dive-site type.
- Giri — similar to a thila, a coral reef formation rising from the lagoon or channel floor.
Boats and transport
- Dhoni — the traditional Maldivian boat; see our dhoni guide.
Food
- Hedhikaa — small savoury short eats; see our hedhikaa guide.
- Mas huni — shredded smoked tuna with coconut, the closest thing to a national breakfast dish.
- Garudhiya — a clear tuna broth, typically served with rice, lime and chilli.
- Sai — Maldivian-style tea, the everyday social drink.
Culture
- Boduberu — literally "big drum," the country's best-known traditional music and dance style; see our music & dance guide.
- Liyelaa jehun — traditional lacquer work; see our crafts guide.
- Thundu kunaa — traditional woven reed mats, associated with the southern atolls.
This glossary will keep growing alongside the rest of the site — if a word shows up on one of our pages without a clear explanation, it's a fair sign it belongs here next.