Makai is a unique and distinctive name of Hawaiian origin. It is derived from the Hawaiian word "maka" which means "eye". Therefore, Makai translates to "towards the sea". This name is often given to children in Hawaii as a symbol of their connection to the ocean and the island's rich marine culture.
The use of Makai as a given name is relatively recent. It is not found among traditional Hawaiian names but has gained popularity in modern times, particularly among families with strong ties to Hawaiian culture or who are drawn to its unique sound and meaning.
Despite its relative newcomer status, Makai carries a deep significance for those who bear it. It serves as a reminder of the importance of the ocean in Hawaiian life and culture, and of the interconnectedness of all living things. Moreover, it is often seen as a blessing, as the eye is considered a sacred part of the body in many cultures.
Today, Makai is still predominantly used within Hawaiian communities but has begun to gain recognition elsewhere as well. It is a name that embodies the spirit of Hawaii and the power of the ocean, making it a fitting choice for parents seeking a unique and meaningful name for their child.
The name Macai has seen a varied pattern of usage over the years in the United States. Between 2002 and 2023, there were a total of 221 babies born with this name.
In terms of annual trends, we can observe several periods of growth and decline:
* From 2002 to 2009, the number of births remained relatively low, fluctuating between 5 and 8.
* There was a significant increase in popularity from 2010 onwards, with the highest numbers recorded being 19 births in 2021 and 16 births in both 2023 and 2007.
* Despite these peaks, there were periods of decline as well. For instance, after reaching a high of 18 births in 2011, the number dropped to 16 in 2012, and then further down to 13 in 2013.
More recently, from 2019 onwards, we see some fluctuations but generally stability:
* In 2019, there were 12 births.
* This number dipped slightly to 11 in 2020 before bouncing back up to 19 in 2021.
* After a notable peak in 2021, the number of births decreased again to 7 in 2022.
It is interesting to note that despite some fluctuations and periods of lower popularity, Macai has consistently been used as a baby name in the United States over this two-decade period. However, it remains relatively uncommon compared to more popular names.