Makau (i), n. 1. Spouse, wife or husband. Ka wehe ra te makau i ahau (M. 81). Ka wewete i to makau (M. 34).
2. Object of affection. Ehara i te tangata, he makau kimi atu naku ki te tama i a Te Kore (S., where it is used of an infant which died at birth). (This sense is usual with Tuhoe in dirges, where sense 1 is unknown.)
3. Favourite. Ka haramai ai te makau a te rau (M. 39). Also in a bad sense; so, makaurau, having many lovers. Na wai hoki te mea ka makaurautia ki tau wahine (M. 68). ‖ Kei tohu te makau ka pau te whakarau (M. 31). ‖ kairau.
Williams Dictionary
Makau (ii), a. 1. Bent, curved.
2. At lowest ebb. Kua makau te tai.
Williams Dictionary
