Hawaiian Names

Names ending in -lani have become so fashionable, people have taken up creating pseudo-Hawaiian names that emulate the sounds of the language (here's looking at you, Meilani). Mililani is at once on-trend, extremely rare, and authentically Hawaiian — the best of all worlds.

Either means "the flowers" or "the child" – lei can mean both. Either way, a strong and pretty Hawaiian name.

An intriguing Hawaiian boy's name that has yet to make its way to the mainland.

Overly teasable.

Liona is a feminine name that likely developed as a variant of Leona, which derives from the Latin word 'leo' meaning 'lion.' This elegant variation carries the same powerful connotations of strength, courage, and majesty associated with the lion. The slight modification in spelling gives the name a softer, more melodic quality while maintaining its regal essence. Though relatively uncommon in English-speaking countries, Liona has seen occasional usage across Europe. The name's balance of strength and femininity makes it appealing to parents seeking a distinctive yet accessible option with classical roots. Its musical quality and meaningful connection to the powerful lion imagery offer a name that is both beautiful and symbolically rich for a daughter.

When King Kamehamaha IV of Hawaii mandated that residents of the island nation take on Western-style names in 1860, they adapted many traditional English first names to the unique Hawaiian orthography; this is the local version of Susannah.

Wilikinia is an uncommon feminine name that appears to have Polynesian or possibly Hawaiian influences, though it may also be a creative variant of Wilhelmina. In Polynesian naming traditions, it might relate to indigenous names adapted through cultural contact. If connected to Wilhelmina, it would share Germanic roots meaning 'determined protector' or 'resolute guardian.' Wilikinia has a flowing, rhythmic quality with its alternating consonants and vowels, creating a melodic sound characteristic of Pacific Island names. The name remains quite rare globally, making it a distinctive choice. Its length and musical quality give it an exotic, graceful character that might appeal to parents seeking a name with unusual rhythms and potential connections to Pacific or oceanic cultures.

Any name that means handsome has something going for it, and Nohea may appeal especially due to its proximity to the popular Noah.

Popular in Hawaii during the first half of the 20th century.

A unisex Hawaiian name with a fitting meaning. It also happens to mean "cloud" in Maori.

Akela is one of the unisex names used in Hawaii to signify Anglo choices: in Akela's case, Asher for boys or Adela for girls.

The Hawaiian word for sunflower is also used figuratively for people who gaze toward the sun, and has a nice resonance with Lion King name Nala.

Keawe was the name of several Hawaiian chiefs and may be used as an epithet to symbolise powerful lineage. It appeared frequently in 19th century Hawaiian records as a given name and a surname, while more recently, it has only been given to a small handful of boys each year across the US.

An intriguing Hawaiian boy's name much more distinct and unique than Kai or Koa.

This phonetic spelling variation of Iolani could is bang on trend with Leilani, Meilani, and the like, yet was given to fewer than 10 baby girls during the last year on record.

An actual Hawaiian first name would convey the aura of the islands more originally and effectively.

This lovely Hawaiian name may need some additional support for spelling and pronunciation.

The strong sounds in this energetic Hawaiian name mirror its meaning.

One of the many Hawaiian versions of biblical names to come out of King Kamehamaha IV's 1860 edict requiring his citizens to adopt Western-style names.