Rising since 1994, #1,118 for boys today.
Popularity of Makoa since 1992
Babies named Makoa per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Boys |
|---|---|
| 1990s | 74 |
| 2000s | 263 |
| 2010s | 342 |
| 2020s | 801 |
Meaning & origin
Makoa first entered U.S. birth records in 1992 and has been rising in use ever since, reaching its peak rank of 1118 in 2025. As of that year, approximately 1 in 8943 boys received the name. The name is most popular in Hawaii, Oregon, and Colorado, reflecting its Hawaiian roots and modern appeal. Despite its uncertain etymology, the association with bravery gives it an adventurous quality. Makoa's trajectory has been steadily upward since 1994, suggesting growing familiarity beyond the islands.
Makoa first appears in U.S. records in 1992. Its Hawaiian derivation is uncertain, though it is commonly associated with the Hawaiian word 'makoa' meaning 'fearless' or 'brave.' The name gained modest popularity in the mainland U.S. after 2010, possibly influenced by the character Makoa in the video game 'Paladins' (2016), though this connection is speculative.
Where Makoa is most popular
Births per 100,000 boys by state, 2025. The lightest shade means too few recorded births.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Mako, Koa
Sibling names for Makoa
Names that share Makoa's style, for a brother or sister.
Sisters: Leilani, Kai, Nalani, Moana, Hina, Kiani, Lailani, Maile, Malia, Tiare, Halia, Kaiulani, Kanani, Lalani, Lei, Leiani, Maika, Mele, Ohana, Tehani, Kamaile, Kamea, Kawena, Laelani, Lanika, Lehua, Leilanie, Leilanni, Maleni, Nohea, Tarita, Kaylanii, Kuuipo, Iolana, Iolani, Kamalei, Leinani, Sanoe
Brothers: Kai, Keanu, Kanoa, Ikaika, Lono, Koa, Kona, Maui, Nainoa, Makani
