A reevaluation of Proto-Polynesian *h

Proto-Polynesian (PPN) is divided into two primary branches: Tongic and Nuc lear Polynesian. Between the two subgroups, only the Tongic languages regul arly retain what is traditionally reconstructed as PPN *h, which derives fr om Proto-Oceanic *s. However, residues of PPN *h are found in certain words in Nuclear Polynesian language. Furthermore, in some of these languages, i t shows up as s, which is a violation of theories of sound change for which h . s is considered implausible. This paper shows that the traditional rec onstruction of PPN *h actually conflates PPN *h and a lenis reflex of PPN * s, and that the sporadic retentions are not borrowings, but rather reflect a direct inheritance from Proto-Polynesian. Sporadic and irregular patterns of retention are attributed to lexical diffusion.