Find out how popular the first name Malani has been for the last 47 years (from 1977 to 2023) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Malani by gender

Based on the last 47 years of data, Malani is more commonly used as a female name, with approximately 100% of people named Malani being female.

For the most recent data in 2023, there were 865 female babies and 0 male babies born with the name Malani.

The history of the first name Malani

The name Malani is believed to have originated from the Hawaiian language, where it is derived from the words "mala" meaning "garden" and "ni" meaning "beautiful." It is a feminine name that reflects the beauty and lushness of the Hawaiian islands.

Historically, the name Malani was primarily used by Native Hawaiians, who have a rich cultural heritage dating back centuries. Records of the name can be found in ancient Hawaiian chants and oral traditions, highlighting its deep roots in the island's history.

One of the earliest known references to the name Malani can be found in the epic Hawaiian saga "Kumulipo," which recounts the creation of the world according to Hawaiian mythology. In this ancient text, Malani is mentioned as the name of a celestial being associated with the stars and heavenly bodies.

Throughout the centuries, several notable individuals have borne the name Malani. One such figure was Malani Bishaw (1875-1948), a renowned Hawaiian singer and composer who helped preserve and promote traditional Hawaiian music during the early 20th century.

Another historical figure with the name Malani was Malani Mahoe (1920-2002), a respected Hawaiian educator and cultural practitioner. She dedicated her life to teaching and preserving the Hawaiian language, ensuring its survival for future generations.

In the realm of literature, Malani Enos (1928-2008) was a celebrated Hawaiian author and playwright. Her works, such as "Then There Were None" and "Honolulu," provided insights into the lives and experiences of Native Hawaiians.

The name Malani also gained recognition through the art world, with Malani Dorr (1935-2003), a talented Hawaiian artist known for her vibrant paintings that captured the beauty and spirit of the islands.

Lastly, Malani Atherton (1902-1988) was a prominent Hawaiian businesswoman and philanthropist. She played a significant role in preserving Hawaiian cultural heritage and supporting various charitable causes throughout her life.

These are just a few examples of individuals who have carried the name Malani throughout history, each leaving their mark in different fields and contributing to the rich tapestry of Hawaiian culture and legacy.

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

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

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