Declining since 2005, #2,719 for girls today.
Popularity of Makena since 1984
Babies named Makena per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls |
|---|---|
| 1980s | 53 |
| 1990s | 747 |
| 2000s | 2,928 |
| 2010s | 2,223 |
| 2020s | 617 |
Meaning & origin
Makena is a modern American name that first appeared on the U.S. popularity charts in 1984. Its most prominent year was 2005, when it reached its peak rank. Since then, the name has been on a gradual decline, reflecting its alignment with the '2000s' naming aesthetic rather than sustained classic status. The name saw particular favor in Hawaii and California, where it ranked among top regional choices. With a 1-in-25,512 incidence in 2025, Makena remains a distinctive but not rare choice. Its etymology is unclear, likely a blend of the popular 'Ma' sound with a feminine ending, possibly influenced by Hawaiian place names like Makena Beach. The name lacks a long historical or cultural tradition, making it a pure product of modern naming creativity.
Makena first entered U.S. records in 1984, part of a wave of inventive names blending the trendy 'Ma-' prefix with a lyrical ending. It resembles Hawaiian locations such as Makena Beach on Maui, leading to occasional association with Hawaiian culture. However, no traditional Hawaiian meaning is clearly established for Makena as a personal name, and its rise is best attributed to modern creative naming practices.
Where Makena is most popular
Births per 100,000 girls by state. Press play or drag the slider to watch it move across the decades. The lightest shade means too few recorded births.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Maki, Kenna, Mak
Variants: Makayna, Mikena
Sibling names for Makena
Names that share Makena's style, for a brother or sister.
Sisters: Kailani, Sienna, Alina, Malia, Nalani, Kaili, Khalani, Alanie, Keilana, Keilany, Kelise, Keylani, Naylani, Zeniyah, Caylani, Halona, Imara, Kiwana, Markeya, Daneli, Jaely, Kaylanii, Akaysha, Denaly, Jacole, Janasha, Kalany, Kelany, Khaylani, Kinshasa, Leilanii, Nehlani, Nkenge, Nolani, Nyota, Raelani, Shabree, Tekeya
Brothers: Kai, Ethan, Liam, Noah, Koa, Ajani, Kamau, Sekou, Jomo, Kailon, Kairee, Dylyn
