MallowbyNames

Kapono

kah-POH-noh · Of uncertain meaning; likely from Hawaiian 'ka pono' meaning 'the righteous' or 'the goodness.'

2025 rank (boys)
#10,695
Babies named in 2025
6
Peak popularity
2011
2025 frequency
1 in 284,679 boys
Usually for
Boys
Trend
Rising since 2021

Rising since 2021, #10,695 for boys today.

Popularity of Kapono since 1981

Babies named Kapono per year in U.S. Social Security records.

510151990200020102020Most births 2011Boys
Data table (by decade)
DecadeBoys
1980s18
1990s25
2000s83
2010s66
2020s19

Meaning & origin

It is a name strongly tied to Hawaiian language and culture. Its first recorded use in U.S. data was in 1981, making it a relatively modern addition to the naming pool. Over the years, it has remained a rare choice, not appearing among the top 10,000 names in any given year. In 2025, it was given to roughly 1 in every 284,679 newborns, with a ranking of 10,695. The name reached its peak popularity in 2011, but has since fluctuated. Since 2021, its usage has been on the rise, though it still remains extremely uncommon. Kapono is almost exclusively used as a boy's name and does not appear in the top states for usage. Its rarity makes it a distinctive choice for parents seeking a name with deep Hawaiian roots and a meaningful etymology.

Kapono is a Hawaiian name that may derive from the phrase 'ka pono,' meaning 'the righteousness' or 'the goodness.' It is a modern given name, likely coined in the late 20th century, and has gained usage in Hawaii and among families with Hawaiian heritage. The name reflects cultural values of righteousness and virtue.

Nicknames & variants

Nicknames: Kapo, Kai

Sibling names for Kapono

Names that share Kapono's style, for a brother or sister.

Sisters: Leilani, Kai, Nalani, Kiana, Makana

Brothers: Keanu, Kai, Koa, Kanoa, Makai

A parent animal hugging its little one, the personalized name page

K is for Kapono, our favorite little boy.

K is for Kapono…”

In a Mallowby alphabet book, Kapono's letter becomes Kapono's page: hand-illustrated, printed hardcover or paperback, made just for them.

Make Kapono's book

Books for siblings or grandkids? The second book is 15% off.

Questions parents ask

What does the name Kapono mean?
Kapono likely comes from the Hawaiian phrase 'ka pono,' meaning 'the righteousness' or 'the goodness.'
How popular is the name Kapono?
Kapono is rare; in 2025 it ranked 10,695 with about 1 in every 284,679 newborns given the name.
Is Kapono a boy's name?
Yes, Kapono is primarily used as a boy's name.