Find out how popular the first name Lakena has been for the last 26 years (from 1974 to 1999) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Lakena by gender

Based on the last 26 years of data, Lakena is exclusively a female name.

For the most recent data in 1999, there were 5 female babies and 0 male babies born with the name Lakena.

The history of the first name Lakena

The name Lakena is believed to have originated from the Hawaiian language. It is a combination of the words "lau," meaning leaf, and "kena," meaning golden or yellow. Thus, the name Lakena can be interpreted as "golden leaf" or "yellow leaf."

In Hawaiian culture, names often carry deep symbolic meanings and connections to nature. The inclusion of "lau" (leaf) in the name Lakena could signify a connection to the natural world, while the addition of "kena" (golden or yellow) could represent warmth, vitality, and the vibrant colors of the islands.

While the exact origins of the name Lakena are not well-documented, it is possible that it was used by ancient Hawaiians as a personal name or a descriptive term. The Hawaiian language has a rich oral tradition, and many names have been passed down through generations without written records.

One of the earliest recorded instances of the name Lakena dates back to the late 18th century. Lakena was the name of a Hawaiian chiefess who lived during the reign of King Kamehameha I, the first ruler to unify the Hawaiian Islands. She was known for her wisdom and leadership within her community.

Another notable historical figure with the name Lakena was Lakena Kekumano, a Hawaiian activist and educator who lived from 1848 to 1928. She was a staunch advocate for the preservation of Hawaiian language and culture, and played a significant role in establishing Hawaiian language schools during the late 19th century.

In the realm of literature, Lakena was the name of a character in the novel "The Descendants" by Kaui Hart Hemmings, published in 2007. The book, which was later adapted into a critically acclaimed film, explored themes of family, identity, and the complexities of modern Hawaiian life.

Other individuals who have carried the name Lakena throughout history include Lakena Pilialoha (1864-1938), a renowned Hawaiian musician and composer, and Lakena Kanahele (1929-2015), a respected kumu hula (teacher of hula) who dedicated her life to perpetuating the traditional Hawaiian dance form.

While the name Lakena may not be as widely known as some other Hawaiian names, its connection to the natural world and its historical significance within Hawaiian culture make it a unique and meaningful choice for those seeking to honor their heritage or celebrate the beauty of the islands.

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

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

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