Find out how popular the first name Kaniela has been for the last 31 years (from 1989 to 2019) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Kaniela by gender

Based on the last 31 years of data, Kaniela is exclusively a male name.

For the most recent data in 2019, there were 5 male babies and 0 female babies born with the name Kaniela.

The history of the first name Kaniela

The name Kaniela has its origins in the Hawaiian language and culture. It is a combination of the Hawaiian words "kani," meaning "sound" or "ring," and "ela," meaning "light" or "bright." Together, the name can be interpreted as "bright sound" or "ringing light."

In ancient Hawaiian tradition, names were carefully chosen to reflect the character, personality, or circumstances surrounding a child's birth. The name Kaniela may have been given to a child born during a time of celebration or joy, with the sound of music and laughter in the air.

While the name Kaniela does not appear in any ancient Hawaiian texts or religious scriptures, it has been a part of Hawaiian culture for centuries. One of the earliest recorded instances of the name can be found in the 18th century, when a Hawaiian chieftain named Kaniela was mentioned in the journals of Captain James Cook during his voyages to the Hawaiian Islands.

Throughout history, several notable individuals have borne the name Kaniela. One of the most famous was Kaniela Naone (1824-1887), a Hawaiian high chief and member of the House of Nobles in the Kingdom of Hawaii. Another notable figure was Kaniela Kapu (1856-1903), a Hawaiian politician and member of the House of Representatives during the late 19th century.

In the realm of sports, Kaniela Kahuanui (1890-1960) was a Hawaiian Olympic swimmer who competed in the 1912 Summer Olympics in Stockholm, Sweden. More recently, Kaniela Ing (born 1989) is a Hawaiian politician who served in the Hawaii House of Representatives from 2012 to 2018.

Another notable Kaniela was Kaniela Keoki Kawelokū-ā-kekūahiwi Apiki (1899-1934), a Hawaiian musician and composer who helped popularize traditional Hawaiian music in the early 20th century.

These are just a few examples of the individuals who have carried the name Kaniela throughout history, each leaving their mark on Hawaiian culture and society in their own unique way.

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

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

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