Declining since 2005, #10,107 for girls today.
Popularity of Melaina since 1964
Babies named Melaina per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls |
|---|---|
| 1960s | 18 |
| 1970s | 100 |
| 1980s | 98 |
| 1990s | 243 |
| 2000s | 438 |
| 2010s | 240 |
| 2020s | 60 |
Meaning & origin
Melaina is a modern name that first entered U.S. birth records in 1964, reflecting a trend of creating melodic, feminine names by blending familiar sounds and suffixes. Its exact origin is unclear, but it may be derived from Melina or as a feminization of Melvin. The name saw its highest popularity in 2004, when it ranked 10,107th nationally, with an incidence of about 1 in 178,585. Since 2005, its usage has declined, though it remains a distinct choice. The name has not been recorded with significant frequency in any single state, suggesting its use is rare and scattered. Despite its obscurity, Melaina fits a pattern of names ending in -ina or -aina popular among American parents seeking a soft, modern sound.
Melaina first appeared in U.S. records in 1964, likely as a modern coinage derived from the name Melina or as a feminine elaboration of Melvin. It may also be influenced by the Greek word melaina meaning 'black, dark', but this connection is speculative. The name has no long historical usage and is primarily a contemporary creation.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Laina, Mela, Lainie
Sibling names for Melaina
Names that share Melaina's style, for a brother or sister.
