Find out how popular the first name Mahana has been for the last 25 years (from 1999 to 2023) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Mahana by gender

Based on the last 25 years of data, Mahana is exclusively a female name.

For the most recent data in 2023, there were 10 female babies and 0 male babies born with the name Mahana.

The history of the first name Mahana

The name Mahana is believed to have originated in the Hawaiian language and culture. It is derived from the Hawaiian words "mā" meaning "light" or "bright" and "hana" meaning "work" or "craft." Together, Mahana can be interpreted to mean "bright work" or "brilliant creation."

This name has its roots in the ancient Polynesian traditions and beliefs. In Hawaiian mythology, Mahana was often associated with the sun, symbolizing warmth, vitality, and the creative forces of nature. It was a name given to children born during the sunny and vibrant summer months.

One of the earliest recorded instances of the name Mahana can be traced back to the 16th century, when it appeared in Hawaiian oral traditions and chants. These ancient stories celebrated the beauty of the Hawaiian islands and the spiritual connection between the people and the natural world.

Throughout history, several notable individuals have borne the name Mahana. One such individual was Mahana Nui, a revered Hawaiian chief and warrior who lived in the late 18th century. He was known for his bravery and leadership during the turbulent times of island conflicts and power struggles.

Another prominent figure was Mahana Kaʻahumanu, who lived from 1768 to 1832. She was a powerful Hawaiian queen and regent, playing a crucial role in the unification of the Hawaiian Islands under King Kamehameha I. Kaʻahumanu was instrumental in promoting Christianity and modernizing Hawaiian society during her reign.

In the realm of sports, Mahana Handley, a Hawaiian surfer, made her mark in the early 20th century. Born in 1895, she was one of the first women to challenge the male-dominated world of surfing and paved the way for future generations of female surfers.

Mahana Kalili, a Hawaiian musician and composer, was born in 1920. He was renowned for his contributions to the preservation and promotion of traditional Hawaiian music. His compositions and performances helped keep the rich cultural heritage of Hawaii alive.

Finally, Mahana Kaunahi, a Hawaiian artist and educator, lived from 1935 to 2018. She was celebrated for her vibrant paintings that captured the essence of Hawaiian life and landscapes. Kaunahi was also a dedicated teacher, inspiring countless students to embrace their artistic talents and cultural roots.

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

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

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