Alika is a unique and captivating name of Hawaiian origin. It means "joyful" or "happy", reflecting the vibrant spirit and beauty of the tropical paradise that it hails from. The name Alika is believed to have been coined by Queen Ka'ahumanu, one of the most powerful figures in Hawaiian history, as a symbol of her joyous nature and her desire for happiness amongst her people.
The name Alika has a rich history in Hawaiian culture and was traditionally used for both boys and girls. However, it is now more commonly associated with females due to its feminine connotation. Despite this, the name remains unisex and can be used for either gender.
One notable figure bearing the name Alika is Princess Ruth Ke'elikolani, who was a high chiefess of the Kona district on the Island of Hawaii during the late 19th century. She was known for her intelligence, strength, and determination, embodying the spirit of joy and happiness that the name Alika represents.
Today, Alika continues to be a beloved name in Hawaii and beyond, chosen by parents who wish to bestow upon their child a unique and meaningful moniker with deep cultural roots. Its positive meaning and beautiful sound make it an appealing choice for parents looking for a distinctive name for their baby boy or girl.
It appears the name Alika experienced significant popularity from the late 1970s to the mid-1980s, with peaks of over 15 births per year between 1979 and 1984. However, after this period, its usage began to decline steadily until it reached a low of just five births in 2011. Although there have been a few fluctuations since then, the name has not regained its former popularity, with fewer than 15 births per year recorded every year from 1986 onwards. Overall, Alika has been given to a total of 635 newborns between 1971 and 2023.