Find out how popular the first name Lukai has been for the last 5 years (from 2019 to 2023) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Lukai by gender

Based on the last 5 years of data, Lukai is exclusively a male name.

For the most recent data in 2023, there were 9 male babies and 0 female babies born with the name Lukai.

The history of the first name Lukai

The name Lukai is believed to have originated from the Hawaiian language, where it is a combination of the words "lū" meaning "calm" and "kai" meaning "sea." This suggests that the name was initially used by Native Hawaiians to describe a tranquil ocean or someone with a serene and peaceful demeanor.

In ancient Hawaiian culture, the sea played a significant role in daily life, serving as a source of sustenance, transportation, and spiritual connection. The name Lukai may have been bestowed upon individuals who embodied the calmness and serenity associated with the ocean, or those who excelled in seafaring or fishing activities.

While the name's origins can be traced back to Hawaii, it is worth noting that similar-sounding names have been found in other Polynesian cultures, such as Lukae in Samoan and Rukai in Maori. This could indicate that the name had a more widespread usage across the Pacific Islands, potentially with slight variations in spelling or pronunciation.

One of the earliest recorded instances of the name Lukai can be found in the Hawaiian language newspaper "Ka Nupepa Kuokoa" from the late 19th century, where it was mentioned in a list of Hawaiian names and their meanings. This suggests that the name was already in use among Native Hawaiians before the widespread adoption of Western names in the Hawaiian Islands.

Throughout history, several notable individuals have borne the name Lukai. One such figure was Lukai Kamekona, a Hawaiian musician and composer from the early 20th century, known for his contributions to the development of traditional Hawaiian music.

Another prominent figure was Lukai Kalani, a Hawaiian chief and military leader who lived in the late 18th century. He played a crucial role in defending the island of Maui against foreign invaders and is celebrated as a symbol of Hawaiian sovereignty and resistance.

In the world of sports, Lukai Smythe was a New Zealand rugby player who represented his country in the 1990s. He was known for his exceptional skills on the field and his dedication to the sport.

Lukai Ah Tong, a Hawaiian artist and sculptor from the 20th century, gained recognition for his intricate wood carvings and sculptures that depicted various aspects of Hawaiian culture and mythology.

Finally, Lukai Kanahele was a Hawaiian educator and cultural practitioner who dedicated his life to preserving and revitalizing traditional Hawaiian language, customs, and practices. He played a significant role in the Hawaiian Renaissance movement of the late 20th century.

These individuals, spanning different eras and fields, exemplify the diverse backgrounds and accomplishments associated with the name Lukai, highlighting its deep roots in Hawaiian culture and its enduring presence throughout history.

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

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

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