Holding steady, #14,942 for girls today.
Popularity of Kawena since 1988
Babies named Kawena per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls | Boys |
|---|---|---|
| 1980s | 6 | 0 |
| 1990s | 22 | 5 |
| 2000s | 52 | 0 |
| 2010s | 59 | 10 |
| 2020s | 42 | 0 |
Meaning & origin
Kawena is a Hawaiian name meaning 'the glow' or 'the brightness', making it a poetic choice for parents seeking a nature-inspired name with cultural roots. First recorded in U.S. data in 1988, it remains a rare name, with a rank of 14,942 in 2025 and an estimated 1 in 321,453 babies receiving it. Its popularity peaked in 2005, and it has since shown a stable trajectory. Though no top states specifically highlight Kawena, it is most likely found among families of Hawaiian heritage or those drawn to island names. Sibling suggestions like Leilani and Kanoa complement its Polynesian feel, while nicknames such as Kena or Wena offer casual alternatives. Kawena's gentle meaning and melodic sound give it an understated appeal without widespread fame.
Kawena derives from Hawaiian 'ka' (the) and 'wena' (glow, brightness, heat). It is a unisex name in Hawaii but more commonly given to girls. The name evokes natural phenomena like the warm glow of a fire or the golden light of sunrise.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Kena, Wena, Kawi
Sibling names for Kawena
Names that share Kawena's style, for a brother or sister.
