227 Hawaiian Baby Boy Names With Meanings

Ride the tropical waves of inspiration with these unique and vibrant monikers.

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• Sep 6, 2023

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Hawaiian baby boy names reflect the island's scenic beauty and rich cultural heritage. These names are deeply rooted in Hawaiian traditions, elegantly reflecting the cross-generational bonds they hold. North American and East Asian cultures strongly influence Hawaiian culture. Indigenous Hawaiian tribes also played a prominent role in shaping the Hawaiian naming system. Generally, Hawaiian baby names draw inspiration from Hawaiian landscapes. Hence, they are often connected to the island's beaches, white sand, flora, and fauna. However, Hawaiian names can also be given to remember ancestors, historical events, and stories (moʻolelo) (1). The naming ritual is one of the most important ceremonies in Hawaiian culture. Ancestral Hawaiians believed overtly meaningful names attracted negative forces. Also, they believed that names could shape one's destiny. Hence, careful selection of names is given utmost importance in the culture. Genuine Hawaiian names defy gender norms, often carrying explicit connotations and occasionally exclusive emblems tied to a lineage. These names encapsulate individual life narratives, bearing profound importance. When articulated in Hawaiian, the significance resonates with speakers, the language itself conveying the weight to listeners. In Hawaiian tradition, three name types show the link between people and the spirit world: night-dream names (inoa pō), sign names (inoa hō‘ailona), and voice names (inoa 'ūlāleo). Night-dream names come from a relative's dream, whereas Sign names arise when a family member sees special signs like cloud shapes or bird flights, revealing a name. Voice names come from mystical voices heard in the wind. Bestowing these names to a child is believed to be the way to connect to the higher cosmic order (2). If Hawaiian naming practices allure you, we have compiled a list of Hawaiian baby boy names that are stylish and one-of-a-kind. Scroll down and explore to find charming monikers as vibrant as Hawaiian culture.

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Name	Gender	Meaning
Keala	Unisex	The path; The road
Kealamauloa	Boy	The eternal path or the path of eternity
Kealani	Unisex	The clear and white heaven
Kealii	Unisex	Chief
Kealoha	Unisex	The one who is loved
Kealohi	Unisex	The one who shines
Kealohilani	Unisex	The shine of the heaven
Keani	Unisex	Breeze or wave
Keanu	Unisex	Cool breeze over the mountains
Keia	Unisex	The one; The kind

Keiana	Unisex	Graceful; Divine grace
Keiki	Unisex	Child
Keikilani	Unisex	Heaven's child
Keimoni	Boy	The ocean of uniqueness or knowledge
Keka	Unisex	Chosen; Selected; Appointed
Kekai	Unisex	The sea
Kekoa	Boy	The warrior
Kela	Unisex	To wait
Kelani	Unisex	Heaven
Kelanie	Unisex	Unique; Mysterious; Beautiful

Kelii	Unisex	The chief
Kellii	Boy	Chief
Keloni	Unisex	Strong; Brave; Noble
Keo	Unisex	Strong and courageous
Keoki	Unisex	Hawaiian variation of George
Keona	Boy	God is gracious
Kepakiano	Boy	God's gift
Kepler	Boy	Hatter; Cap maker
Kiala	Unisex	Bright; Clear
Kianah	Unisex	Divine; Heavenly

Kida	Unisex	stringed musical instrument
Kika	Boy	Battle place
Kila	Unisex	Strong; Powerful; Brave
Kilani	Unisex	Mighty; Powerful
Kilo	Boy	One who observes the stars; Daydreamer
Kilohana	Unisex	Superior; Best
Kimo	Boy	One who replaces or supplants; A supplanter
Koa	Boy	Warrior
Koalani	Unisex	The heavenly path
Kona	Boy	Leeward

Konala	Boy	World ruler
Konane	Boy	Konane means Light
Ku	Unisex	Good; Nest
Kualii	Boy	Kualii means A Famous Chief
Kukane	Boy	Means Like a Man
Kulani	Boy	Kulani means Like heaven, to reveal Heaven
Kye	Boy	Ocean
Kylani	Unisex	Heaven; Sky
Kyroh	Unisex	Mysterious and unique
Lahahana	Boy	Warmth of the sun

Laiana	Unisex	Loving; Graceful; Charming
Laki	Unisex	Lucky; Fortunate
Lanikai	Unisex	Heavenly beach
Laylani	Unisex	Exotic, enchanting, beautiful
Leialoha	Unisex	A child who is cherished and loved
Leiani	Unisex	Heavenly flowers; Royal child
Leiko	Unisex	A petite flower
Leilani	Unisex	Royal child
Leylani	Unisex	Heavenly flower, tender beauty
Liko	Boy	Bud

Lilo	Unisex	Generous one; God is my oath
Loe	Unisex	King
Lolani	Unisex	Royal hawk
Maelia	Unisex	Exotic, feminine, unique
Mahana	Unisex	Radiant, energetic, spirited
Mahealani	Unisex	Moonlit night; Full moon
Maikah	Unisex	Strength; Leadership; Determination
Makai	Boy	Towards the sea
Makaia	Unisex	Gift from God
Makaio	Unisex	One who was a God's gift

Makani	Boy	Wind; Ghost
Makeila	Unisex	Beauty; Graceful
Makia	Unisex	Purposeful; Focused
Makoa	Boy	Strong and courageous
Maleko	Boy	King; Ruler; Powerful
Malo	Boy	A Victorious Man; Winner
Mana	Unisex	One who is full of spirit
Maneha	Unisex	Wise; Intelligent
Manoa	Unisex	Place of peace and tranquility
Maui	Boy	Strong-willed

Maylani	Unisex	Heavenly flower
Mele	Boy	One who is happy; Merry
Mililani	Unisex	A gentle touch from the heaven
Moke	Boy	A person who is sweetened with honey; One who is remarkably fine
Monay	Unisex	Descendant of the protector
Mumu	Unisex	Dream
Nainoa	Boy	One who guards the kids or small children
Nakea	Unisex	Pure; Genuine; Full of life
Nakoa	Unisex	Warrior, brave, powerful
Nalea	Unisex	Flower-like; Delicate

Nalu	Unisex	Wave; Surf
Nana	Unisex	The name of a Spring month; Fresh or green vegetables; The status of a monarch.
Nani	Unisex	Beauty; Glory; Grace
Navie	Unisex	Daring; Adventurous; Bold
Neeko	Unisex	Vibrant; Unique; Free-spirited
Neilani	Unisex	Beautiful spirit of the sky
Neyah	Unisex	Unique; Beautiful; Brave
Nihana	Unisex	Bright; Morning; Beauty queen
Nohea	Unisex	Lovely; Handsome
Olana	Unisex	Joyful or cheerful

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Hawaiian baby boy names blend tradition and meaning for parents seeking unique names. These names embody the islands' vibrant spirit and deep meanings. Whether rooted in nature, history, or familial heritage, these names reflect the beauty and depth of Hawaiian history and culture. The compilation of names presented above provides a glimpse into this captivating world, guiding parents in selecting a meaningful name that resonates with Hawaiian traditions. So pick a name that fits your child's identity as a gem.

Infographic: Joyful Hawaiian Baby Boy Names

The islands of Hawaii are known for their verdant beauty and breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean. The region is a picture-perfect confluence of flora and fauna, with natural beauty at its finest. If this sublime charm of Hawaii is what you are fond of, you may consider a Hawaiian name for your son. The following infographic presents some of the best Hawaiian baby boy names for you to explore.

hearty and joyous hawaiian baby boy names (infographic)

Frequently Asked Questions

Which Hawaiian boy name means gift from God?

Among the unique names for boys in Hawaii, Makana is a unisex name that means ‘gift’ or ‘gift from God,’ Keona means ‘God’s gracious gift,’ and Ionakana implies ‘a gift from God.’ These are beautiful choices for boys.

2. Which Hawaiian boy names mean sky?

Kalon is a popular Hawaiian name for boys that means ‘the sky’ and has drawn inspiration from the God of the Sky and his characteristics. Additionally, Aouli is another traditional name that has Hawaiian roots and means ‘the limitless blue sky.’

3. Which Hawaiian boy name means love?

In the Hawaiian language, Aloha means ‘love.’ Therefore, any name that contains the word aloha symbolizes love. For example, Kealoha is a unisex name that means ‘the loved one,’ where ke denotes a definite article. Pilialoha is another traditional Hawaiian name that means ‘beloved’ or ‘a bond of love.’

4. What is the meaning of the name "Kai" in Hawaiian?

Kai in Hawaiian is a unisex name that means ‘sea.’ Some other Hawaiian names that mean sea are Kaiholo (running current), Kaiko (sea with strong current), and Kaikane (strong sea).

5. What are some Hawaiian baby boy names that are easy to pronounce?

Names like Kai meaning ‘sea’ (k-eye), Koa means ‘warrior’ (koh-ah), Nalu means ‘wave’ (nah-loo), Liko means ‘bud’ (lee-koh), Makaio means ‘gift of Yahweh’ (mah-kah-ee-oh), and Nainoa means ‘the namesakes’ (nah-ee-noh-ah) are easy to pronounce. However, keep in mind that pronunciation can vary, and it's always a good idea to consult with a native Hawaiian speaker to ensure accurate pronunciation.

6. What are some Hawaiian baby boy names with historical significance?

Hawaii has a rich history and culture, among which Kamehameha is a name that symbolizes ‘the quiet one.’ It was the name of the legendary founder and first King of Hawaii and was referred to as Kamehameha the Great by the local people (3). Kaheliki is another name for boys in Hawaiian culture that implies ‘the thunder’ and was the name of the 13th and 25th Chiefs or Mōʻī of the Māui people of Hawaii.

7. What are some Hawaiian baby boy names that are suitable for twins?

Some Hawaiian names that could be suitable for twins are Alo means ‘the face’ and Aloiki means ‘renowned war’, Mamo means ‘yellow bird’ and Manu means ‘bird’, Kai means ‘sea’ and Kainalu means ‘surf’, and Oliwa means ‘olive tree’ and Onaona means ‘sweet fragrance.’ It's always a good idea to research the meanings and cultural significance of the names you are considering to ensure they align with your intentions.

References

MomJunction's articles are written after analyzing the research works of expert authors and institutions. Our references consist of resources established by authorities in their respective fields. You can learn more about the authenticity of the information we present in our editorial policy.

Native Hawaiian Cultural Heritage.
https://www.papahanaumokuakea.gov/heritage/kapainoa.html
Hawaiian Naming Traditions: A Cultural Legacy
http://www.bigislandtalkstory.org/talk-stories/hawaiian-naming-traditions-a-cultural-legacy-ke-ola-magazine-sept-oct-20209945271
Kamehameha the Great.
https://www.nps.gov/puhe/learn/historyculture/kamehameha.ht

Look Up For Many More Names

Do you have a name in mind and want to know more about it? Or want to find names belonging to a particular origin, religion, or having a specific meaning? Use our search tool below to explore more baby names with different combinations.