Find out how popular the first name Ailana has been for the last 22 years (from 2002 to 2023) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Ailana by gender

Based on the last 22 years of data, Ailana is exclusively a female name.

For the most recent data in 2023, there were 118 female babies and 0 male babies born with the name Ailana.

The history of the first name Ailana

The name Ailana is of Hawaiian origin, with its roots tracing back to the ancient Polynesian languages spoken in the Hawaiian Islands. The name is believed to have been derived from the Hawaiian word 'ailana', which means 'chief' or 'leader'.

In Hawaiian culture, names held significant importance and were often chosen to reflect the family's lineage, spiritual beliefs, or the circumstances surrounding the child's birth. The name Ailana likely carried connotations of strength, leadership, and respect within the communities where it was used.

Historical records and ancient Hawaiian chants do not provide many specific references to individuals bearing the name Ailana. However, it is reasonable to assume that the name was used by notable figures and chiefs within the Hawaiian islands during the pre-colonial period.

One of the earliest recorded examples of the name Ailana can be found in the genealogical records of the Hawaiian royal family, the House of Kamehameha. Ailana Kalani (born circa 1780) was a member of this illustrious lineage, though her exact role and significance are not well-documented.

Another notable individual with the name Ailana was Ailana Kealoha (1892-1978), a Hawaiian songwriter, and musician who contributed to the preservation of traditional Hawaiian music and dance. Her compositions and performances played a crucial role in keeping the cultural heritage of the islands alive during a time of significant social and political change.

In the realm of Hawaiian mythology, the name Ailana is sometimes associated with the figure of Pele, the powerful goddess of fire, lightning, wind, and volcanoes. While there are no specific characters named Ailana in these ancient stories, the name's connection to leadership and strength aligns with the revered status of Pele in Hawaiian mythology.

Beyond the Hawaiian Islands, the name Ailana has also been recorded in various parts of the world, though its origins and meanings may have evolved or diverged from the Hawaiian roots. For instance, Ailana Navarro (1938-2017) was a prominent Puerto Rican actress and author, known for her contributions to the performing arts and literature in Latin America.

While the name Ailana may not be as widely recognized as some other Hawaiian names, its historical significance and cultural roots continue to resonate within the Hawaiian community and among those who appreciate the rich tapestry of Polynesian culture and tradition.

Data source

The first name data used on this page comes from the Social Security Administration (SSA). They've been collecting data on baby names since 1880.

The history and meaning of the name Ailana was researched and written by our team of onomatology and genealogy experts.

If you have a correction or suggestion to improve the history of Ailana, please contact us.

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