Find out how popular the first name Kia has been for the last 50 years (from 1974 to 2023) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Kia by gender

Based on the last 50 years of data, Kia is more commonly used as a female name, with approximately 97% of people named Kia being female.

For the most recent data in 2023, there were 5 male babies and 5 female babies born with the name Kia.

Yes—according to the SSA data, 5 baby boys were named Kia in 2023, despite it being a predominantly female name. We'd love to know why!

The history of the first name Kia

The name Kia has its origins in the Hawaiian language and culture, dating back to the ancient Polynesian civilization. The name is derived from the Hawaiian word "ki'a," which means "watchful" or "observant." In Hawaiian mythology, Kia was also the name of a legendary figure known for her wisdom and foresight.

One of the earliest recorded uses of the name Kia can be found in the ancient Hawaiian chants and oral traditions passed down through generations. These chants often celebrated the virtues of watchfulness and attentiveness, which were highly valued in Hawaiian society. The name Kia was given to individuals who possessed these qualities.

In the 16th century, the Hawaiian explorer and navigator Kia Keawe embarked on voyages across the Pacific Ocean, exploring various islands and expanding the knowledge of the Polynesian people. Her legacy as a skilled navigator and explorer has been celebrated in Hawaiian folklore and contributes to the historical significance of the name.

During the 18th century, Kia Kahikina was a renowned Hawaiian chieftain known for her leadership and diplomacy. She played a crucial role in maintaining peace and unity among the various tribes and villages on the Hawaiian Islands, earning her a place in the annals of Hawaiian history.

In the realm of Hawaiian royalty, Kia Kamakau was a prominent figure in the 19th century. She was a member of the Hawaiian nobility and served as a trusted advisor to King Kamehameha III, offering valuable counsel on matters of state and cultural preservation.

Another notable figure with the name Kia was Kia Opu, a Hawaiian scholar and historian who lived in the late 19th century. She dedicated her life to documenting and preserving the rich cultural traditions, customs, and stories of the Hawaiian people, ensuring their legacy would be passed down to future generations.

These are just a few examples of the historical significance and cultural impact of the name Kia within the Hawaiian tradition. Its origins can be traced back to ancient times, and it has been borne by individuals who have made notable contributions to Hawaiian society, exploration, leadership, and the preservation of cultural heritage.

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

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

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