MallowbyNames

Keona

kee-OH-nuh · God is gracious

2025 rank (girls)
#3,167
Babies named in 2025
50
Peak popularity
2004
2025 frequency
1 in 32,145 girls
Usually for
Girls
Trend
Rising since 2022

Rising since 2022, #3,167 for girls today.

Popularity of Keona since 1973

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

4590135198020002020Most births 2004Girls
Data table (by decade)
DecadeGirls
1970s223
1980s706
1990s953
2000s923
2010s335
2020s145

Meaning & origin

Keona first appeared in U.S. birth records in 1973, and after a gradual rise, it reached its peak popularity in 2004. As of 2025, the name is relatively uncommon, ranking 3,167 nationally with an incidence of 1 in 32,145 births. In recent years, Keona has been on an upward trend, increasing in use since 2022. The name is most frequently given in California, reflecting its Hawaiian roots. While not a top choice, Keona offers a melodic and culturally rich option for parents seeking a name with a spiritual meaning.

Keona is a Hawaiian adaptation of the name Keonaona, which itself derives from the Hebrew name John, meaning 'God is gracious.' It entered Hawaiian naming conventions through Christian missionary influence, blending the traditional Hawaiian 'ke' (the) with 'ona' (sweet fragrance) or as a transliteration of John. The name has been used in Hawaii since the 19th century.

Where Keona is most popular

Births per 100,000 girls by state, 2025. The lightest shade means too few recorded births.

Nicknames & variants

Nicknames: Keo, Kiki, Nana

Variants: Keonaona, Keonah

Sibling names for Keona

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

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

K is for Keona, our favorite little girl.

K is for Keona…”

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

Make Keona's book

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

Questions parents ask

What does Keona mean?
Keona is a Hawaiian name meaning 'God is gracious,' derived from the Hebrew name John.
How popular is Keona?
In 2025, Keona ranked 3,167 in the United States, with about 1 in 32,145 newborn girls given the name.
Is Keona a boy or girl name?
Keona is primarily used as a girl's name.