Mailei is a unique and beautiful name of Hawaiian origin. It is composed of two parts: "maile" which means "seaweed," and "lei," which means "garland or wreath." Therefore, Mailei can be translated to mean "seaweed lei."
The name Mailei has deep cultural significance in Hawaiian tradition. According to Hawaiian mythology, the goddess of fire, Pele, wore a maile lei as she traveled across the islands, creating volcanoes and forming the Hawaiian landscape. As such, the name Mailei is often associated with strength, creativity, and the power of nature.
Historically, the name Mailei has been carried by several notable figures in Hawaiian history. One famous bearer was Queen Ka'ahumanu III, who ruled the Hawaiian Kingdom during the mid-19th century. Her full name was Keakealani Kanoe Mailei, reflecting her noble lineage and high status.
In modern times, Mailei continues to be a popular choice among parents seeking unique and meaningful names for their children. It is often given to girls but can also be used as a unisex name. Despite its rarity, the name Mailei carries with it a rich history and deep cultural significance that makes it a truly special choice.
Overall, the name Mailei offers a beautiful blend of natural imagery, historical importance, and unique pronunciation that sets it apart from other names. It is a perfect choice for parents looking for an uncommon yet meaningful name for their child.
The name Mailei has seen a consistent presence in the United States over the past two decades, with an average of approximately 7 births per year between 2002 and 2004, and a slight dip to 6 births in 2014. However, it is important to note that these figures are quite low compared to the total number of births in the U.S. each year, which averages around 3.9 million according to the CDC's National Center for Health Statistics. This means that Mailei is a relatively rare name, but one that has maintained a steady presence over time. Despite its rarity, the name Mailei carries a unique charm and has likely been chosen by parents for its distinct sound and possible meanings they may associate with it.