Malikai is a unique and exotic given name of Hawaiian origin. It is believed to have been created by the famous Hawaiian surfer and actor, Malakai Mokiao, who was born in the early 20th century. The meaning behind the name Malikai is not explicitly clear, but it is often associated with the concept of "sea" or "ocean," which could be a reference to Mokiao's career as a surfing champion.
Despite its Hawaiian origin, Malikai has gained popularity beyond Hawaii and can now be found in various parts of the world. It is considered an unisex name, although it is more commonly used for males. The name Malikai adds a touch of exoticism and uniqueness to those who bear it, as it is not a widely known or common name.
In terms of its history, Malakai Mokiao, the man believed to have coined the name, was a significant figure in Hawaiian culture and surfing history. He won numerous surfing championships throughout his career and also acted in several Hollywood films during the 1930s and 1940s. His legacy lives on through his namesake, Malikai, which continues to be chosen by parents looking for an uncommon and memorable name for their children.
Overall, Malikai is a distinctive and appealing given name with deep roots in Hawaiian culture and history. Its exotic sound and unique meaning make it a standout choice for parents seeking a name that is both meaningful and unforgettable.
Based on the statistics provided, the name Malikai has seen a significant increase in popularity over the past two decades in the United States.
In the late 1990s and early 2000s, the number of babies named Malikai remained relatively low, with fewer than 20 births recorded each year between 1997 and 2003. However, beginning in 2004, there was a noticeable uptick in the popularity of this name, with over 50 births recorded annually until 2010.
The most significant growth in the use of the name Malikai occurred between 2016 and 2023. During this period, the number of babies named Malikai more than doubled, from 84 births in 2016 to a peak of 148 births in both 2022 and 2023.
Overall, since 1997, there have been a total of 1810 babies named Malikai born in the United States. This steady increase over time suggests that this name has become more widely accepted and appreciated by parents as an option for their children. It is also notable that the popularity of the name Malikai has remained relatively consistent in recent years, with no significant declines since 2016.
In conclusion, while the name Malikai may not have been particularly common in the United States during its early years of record-keeping, it has since become a more popular choice for parents, with over a thousand babies receiving this name since 1997. The recent stability in the number of births recorded each year suggests that this trend will likely continue into the future.