Find out how popular the first name Meleana has been for the last 48 years (from 1976 to 2023) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Meleana by gender

Based on the last 48 years of data, Meleana 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 Meleana.

The history of the first name Meleana

The name Meleana is of Hawaiian origin, tracing its roots back to the ancient Polynesian languages spoken in the Hawaiian Islands. Its origins date back several centuries, possibly as far as the 11th or 12th century, when the first Polynesian settlers arrived in the region.

Meleana is believed to be derived from the Hawaiian words "mele," meaning song or chant, and "ana," which can signify a state or condition. Thus, the name Meleana may have originally been associated with the act of singing, chanting, or being in a musical state.

In ancient Hawaiian culture, music, chanting, and storytelling were integral parts of daily life, used for everything from religious ceremonies and historical accounts to entertainment and expression. The name Meleana likely held significance in this context, potentially denoting someone with a talent for singing or a connection to the musical traditions of the islands.

While specific historical references to the name Meleana are scarce, it is possible that it appeared in ancient Hawaiian chants, stories, or genealogies passed down through oral tradition. Unfortunately, many of these oral histories were lost or distorted over time due to the disruption caused by Western colonization and the suppression of Hawaiian cultural practices.

One of the earliest recorded examples of the name Meleana can be found in the late 18th century, when Captain James Cook and other European explorers began documenting the Hawaiian language and culture. However, it is important to note that these early records may have been subject to transcription errors or misinterpretations.

Throughout history, several notable individuals have borne the name Meleana, though their biographies and accomplishments are often obscured by the lack of comprehensive historical records from the Hawaiian Islands. One such figure was Meleana Nui, a revered kahuna (priest or expert) who lived in the late 18th century and was known for her knowledge of traditional Hawaiian healing practices and rituals.

Another notable Meleana was Meleana Kalama, a Hawaiian chieftess who lived in the early 19th century and played a role in the transition of the Hawaiian Islands from a traditional monarchical system to a more modern constitutional monarchy. She was known for her diplomatic skills and her efforts to preserve Hawaiian culture and traditions during a period of rapid change.

In the late 19th century, Meleana Kawānanakoa was a prominent member of the Hawaiian nobility, serving as a high-ranking member of the court of King Kalākaua and Queen Liliuokalani. She was also an accomplished musician and advocate for the preservation of Hawaiian music and dance.

More recently, Meleana Aluli Meyer, born in 1944, is a respected Hawaiian scholar, activist, and educator who has dedicated her life to promoting Hawaiian language, culture, and environmental stewardship. She has played a significant role in the Hawaiian Renaissance movement, which seeks to revitalize and perpetuate Hawaiian traditions and values.

Meleana Ravinovitz, born in 1962, is a Hawaiian singer and songwriter who has been instrumental in popularizing Hawaiian music and bringing it to a global audience. Her music often draws inspiration from traditional Hawaiian chants and melodies, showcasing the enduring cultural significance of the name Meleana.

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

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

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