2. (modifier) disparaging, derogatory, contemptuous, insulting, scornful.
Ko te nuinga o ngā pātere he waiata tautitotito, i takea i ngā kōrero hanihani, i te kanga, i te kai-upoko, i te kōrero whakahī, i te taunu rānei (M 2004:xix). / The majority of the abusive songs are compositions originating from derogatory references, abuse, slander, sneering remarks or belittling comments.
Synonyms: kanone, whakahāwea, hahani, tāwai
3. (noun) disparaging comments.
Nō tēnei tau ka hua ngā hanihani ki runga ki a koe (TWMNT 13/3/1877:69). / This year disparaging comments were made about you.
4. (noun) song of scorn, song of personal abuse - a song defamatory of individuals.
He waiata whakaiti te hanihani, he takahi i te wairua, i te mana rānei o tētahi atu (RTP 2015:119). / A 'hanihani' is a belittling song that tramples on the spirit or mana of another person.
