Find out how popular the first name Iniki has been for the last 2 years (from 1992 to 1993) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Iniki by gender

Based on the last 2 years of data, Iniki is more commonly used as a female name, with approximately 87% of people named Iniki being female.

For the most recent data in 1993, there were 17 female babies and 0 male babies born with the name Iniki.

The history of the first name Iniki

The name Iniki is believed to have originated from the Hawaiian language, with its roots tracing back to the Polynesian cultural heritage of the Hawaiian Islands. The name is thought to be derived from the Hawaiian word "iniki," which translates to "sharp" or "piercing." This association likely stems from the island's natural environment, where sharp volcanic rocks and piercing ocean waves were prominent features.

One of the earliest recorded mentions of the name Iniki can be found in ancient Hawaiian chants and oral traditions that celebrated the beauty and power of nature. These chants often personified elements like the wind, rain, and ocean, attributing them with names that reflected their characteristics. The name Iniki may have been used to represent the sharp gusts of wind or the piercing rays of the sun.

In the 19th century, the name Iniki gained prominence through the life of Iniki Kahele, a renowned Hawaiian chieftain and warrior. Born in 1810, Iniki Kahele was a respected leader known for his bravery and strategic skills in battle. His exploits and leadership during the turbulent period of Hawaiian history have ensured that his name remains a part of the island's cultural legacy.

Another notable figure bearing the name Iniki was Iniki Kapu, a revered Hawaiian kahuna (priest) and healer who lived in the late 18th century. Iniki Kapu was renowned for his vast knowledge of traditional Hawaiian medicine and his ability to harness the healing properties of plants and natural remedies. His contributions to preserving Hawaiian cultural practices and wisdom have earned him a place in the annals of Hawaiian history.

In more recent times, the name Iniki gained international recognition due to Hurricane Iniki, one of the most powerful and destructive storms to strike the Hawaiian Islands in recorded history. The hurricane, which struck in 1992, caused widespread damage and devastation across the islands of Kauai and Oahu. The name Iniki, meaning "sharp" or "piercing," aptly captured the intense and devastating nature of the storm.

Another notable figure named Iniki was Iniki Utu, a celebrated Hawaiian artist and sculptor who lived in the 20th century. Born in 1924, Iniki Utu was known for his intricate wood carvings and sculptures that depicted traditional Hawaiian cultural motifs and legends. His works have been exhibited in museums and galleries around the world, and he is regarded as one of the most influential Hawaiian artists of his time.

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 Iniki was researched and written by our team of onomatology and genealogy experts.

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

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