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

Popularity of Lehua by gender

Based on the last 50 years of data, Lehua is exclusively a female name.

For the most recent data in 2023, there were 5 female babies and 0 male babies born with the name Lehua.

The history of the first name Lehua

The name Lehua has its origins in the Hawaiian language and culture. It is a name that has been used for centuries in the Hawaiian islands, with roots that trace back to ancient Polynesian languages.

Lehua is derived from the Hawaiian word for the 'ōhi'a lehua flower, which is a sacred and culturally significant plant in Hawaiian traditions. The ōhi'a lehua is a type of evergreen tree that produces vibrant red flowers, and it holds a special place in Hawaiian mythology and folklore.

In Hawaiian legends, the ōhi'a lehua is believed to represent the tragic love story between the demigod Ohia and the beautiful woman Lehua. According to the tale, Ohia and Lehua were deeply in love, but their relationship was forbidden. The gods, angered by their defiance, turned Ohia into an ōhi'a tree and Lehua into the flower that bears her name. The legend tells that the red lehua flowers represent the undying love between the two lovers.

The name Lehua has been recorded in various historical documents and accounts from the Hawaiian islands. One of the earliest known references to the name can be found in the traditional Hawaiian chants and mele (songs) that have been passed down through generations.

Throughout history, several notable individuals have borne the name Lehua. One of the most famous was Lehua Kamalu, a Hawaiian princess who lived in the late 18th century. She was the daughter of King Kamehameha I, the legendary ruler who unified the Hawaiian islands.

Another well-known figure with the name Lehua was Lehua Ah Sam, a Hawaiian activist and community leader who lived from 1897 to 1984. She played a pivotal role in preserving and promoting Hawaiian culture and traditions during the 20th century.

In the realm of Hawaiian music, Lehua Kalima Matsumoto (1905-1977) was a renowned singer and composer who helped popularize traditional Hawaiian songs and hula. Her contributions to the preservation of Hawaiian music have been widely celebrated.

Lehua Kawaiʻulaokaʻāinanuikuāpua, also known as Lehua Kawaiʻulaokaaʻāinanuikuapua, was a Hawaiian chiefess who lived in the late 18th century and played a significant role in the unification of the Hawaiian islands under King Kamehameha I.

Lehua Paulele (1936-2017) was a respected Hawaiian historian, educator, and cultural practitioner who dedicated her life to preserving and sharing the knowledge and traditions of her ancestors.

While these examples highlight some notable individuals who carried the name Lehua throughout history, it is important to note that the name has been widely used across generations in the Hawaiian islands, reflecting its deep cultural significance and connection to the rich traditions of the Hawaiian people.

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

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

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