Malaia is a unique and exotic name of Polynesian origin. It is derived from the Hawaiian word "mala," which means "to scatter or spread." The name Malaia is believed to have been borne by a legendary Hawaiian chiefess who was known for her beauty, intelligence, and wisdom.
The meaning behind the name Malaia is often interpreted as symbolizing growth, abundance, and prosperity. This could be due to the association with the act of scattering or spreading, which suggests a sense of expansion and dispersion. Alternatively, it could also be linked to the idea of fertile soil that produces abundant crops, further emphasizing themes of growth and prosperity.
Throughout history, there have been several notable individuals who have borne the name Malaia. One such example is the Hawaiian princess Ka'ahumanu II, who was born in the early 19th century. She was the daughter of King Kamehameha III and Queen Kalama, and she played an important role in Hawaiian politics during her lifetime.
Today, the name Malaia continues to be a popular choice among parents seeking unique and meaningful names for their daughters. Its Polynesian origins add a touch of exoticism and mystery to the name, while its meanings of growth, abundance, and prosperity make it a fitting choice for a child who is expected to flourish in life.
Overall, Malaia is a beautiful and significant name with a rich history that stretches back centuries. It is a name that carries with it a sense of strength, wisdom, and prosperity, making it an excellent choice for parents looking for a meaningful name for their daughter.
The name Malaia has seen varied popularity over the years in the United States, as indicated by the birth statistics from 1997 to 2023.
In 1997 and 2003, there were only 5 births each year with the name Malaia. However, starting from 2004, we began to see an increase in its popularity, with 7 births that year. This trend continued through 2006 when it peaked at 18 births.
The years 2007 and 2008 saw a slight dip in popularity, with 24 and 13 births respectively. Nevertheless, the name maintained consistent popularity over these years. The decade closed out with a rise again, reaching 24 births in both 2011 and 2015.
The years between 2016 and 2023 witnessed a significant increase in babies named Malaia, with numbers ranging from 8 to 34 births per year. Notably, the highest number of births with this name was recorded in 2023, with 34 newborns sharing it.
Overall, between 1997 and 2023, there were a total of 368 babies named Malaia born in the United States. This shows that while not exceptionally popular every year, the name Malaia has maintained a steady presence among American baby names over this period.