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

Popularity of Mele by gender

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

For the most recent data in 2023, there were 12 female babies and 0 male babies born with the name Mele.

The history of the first name Mele

The given name Mele has its origins in the Polynesian languages spoken across the islands of the Pacific Ocean. It is derived from the Proto-Polynesian word "mele", which means "song" or "chant". The name has been used for centuries by various Polynesian cultures, including the Hawaiians, Samoans, and Tongans.

In Hawaiian culture, the name Mele is associated with the art of hula dancing and the accompanying chants and songs. It is a name commonly given to girls born into families of hula practitioners or those with a strong connection to Hawaiian traditions. The earliest recorded instances of the name Mele in Hawaii date back to the 18th century.

One of the most notable historical figures with the name Mele is Mele Kalikimaka, a Hawaiian composer and musician who lived in the late 19th century. She is renowned for her contributions to the preservation of traditional Hawaiian music and for composing songs that are still widely performed today.

Another prominent individual with the name Mele is Mele Keaupuni Kailianu, a Hawaiian high chiefess who lived in the early 19th century. She was known for her leadership and advocacy for the rights of Native Hawaiians during the period of Western colonization.

In Samoan culture, the name Mele is also associated with music and dance. It is a popular name for girls, often given to those with a talent for singing or dancing. One notable figure is Mele Siulikutafu, a Samoan singer and musician who gained recognition in the early 20th century for her performances of traditional Samoan songs and dances.

In Tonga, the name Mele has a similar connection to music and performance. A notable historical figure with this name is Mele Siulikutafu, a Tongan princess and poet who lived in the late 18th century. She is celebrated for her contributions to Tongan literature and her advocacy for the preservation of traditional arts and culture.

Another individual with the name Mele is Mele Kaihau, a Hawaiian activist and leader who played a significant role in the Hawaiian sovereignty movement in the late 20th century. She was a vocal advocate for the rights of Native Hawaiians and the protection of their cultural heritage.

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

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

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