MallowbyNames

Kohana

ko-HAH-nah · Little one (Hawaiian).

2025 rank (girls)
#8,860
Babies named in 2025
11
Peak popularity
2009
2025 frequency
1 in 146,115 girls
Usually for
Girls
Trend
Rising since 2002

Rising since 2002, #8,860 for girls today.

Popularity of Kohana since 2002

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

6121820102020Most births 2009Girls
Data table (by decade)
DecadeGirls
2000s79
2010s81
2020s62

Meaning & origin

Kohana is a Hawaiian name meaning 'little one.' It first entered U.S. birth records in 2002 and reached its highest point of usage in 2009. As of 2025, the name ranked 8,860, with approximately 1 in every 146,115 girls given the name. Its trajectory has been rising since it first appeared, gradually gaining modest popularity. While not among the most common Hawaiian names in the mainland, its gentle meaning and melodic sound have attracted parents seeking a name with a Polynesian connection.

Kohana is a Hawaiian name meaning 'little one.' It reflects the traditional Hawaiian naming practice of using descriptive terms or endearments. The name remains uncommon outside of Hawaiian communities but has seen occasional use in the mainland United States since the early 2000s.

Nicknames & variants

Nicknames: Koko, Hana

Sibling names for Kohana

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

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

K is for Kohana, our favorite little girl.

K is for Kohana…”

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

Make Kohana's book

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

Questions parents ask

What does the name Kohana mean?
Kohana is a Hawaiian name meaning 'little one' or 'sweetheart.'
How popular is the name Kohana?
Kohana first appeared in U.S. records in 2002 and peaked in popularity in 2009. As of 2025, it ranks 8,860 with about 1 in 146,115 births.
Is Kohana a boy or girl name?
Kohana is predominantly used for girls, though it could be considered unisex.