noun
- a Polynesian plant (Piper methysticum) whose root is used to make a beverage with mild psychoactive properties; also, the beverage itself
Usage: also spelled kava; commonly used in Pacific Island cultures
Examples
- The islanders prepared ava for the ceremonial gathering.
- Ava is traditionally consumed in social and religious ceremonies throughout the Pacific.
- The root of the ava plant is ground and mixed with water to create the drink.
- Many people in Fiji and Samoa drink ava as part of their cultural heritage.