Walela is a unique and uncommon name of Hawaiian origin. It does not have a widely accepted meaning or translation in English. However, some sources suggest that it may mean "calm sea" or "tranquil waters," which could be interpreted as symbolizing peace, serenity, and harmony.
The name Walela is believed to have been popularized by the famous Hawaiian singer and songwriter Israel Kamakawiwo'ole, who went by the stage name Iz. He was known for his beautiful voice and his ability to blend traditional Hawaiian music with other musical styles. His most famous song, "Somewhere Over the Rainbow/What a Wonderful World," which features Walela as one of its lyrics, has become a beloved classic around the world.
While Walela may not have a clear historical or cultural significance beyond Iz's music, it is undeniably associated with his legacy and the spirit of Hawaiian music. As such, it may hold special meaning for those who appreciate Hawaiian culture and the power of music to bring people together.
The name Walela has seen a fluctuating popularity over the past few years in the United States. In 2012, there were 7 births with this unique name, which rose slightly to 8 births in 2021. However, it seems that the popularity of Walela began to decline afterwards, with only 6 births recorded in 2022 and a further decrease to 5 births in 2023.
Despite these fluctuations, the total number of births with the name Walela over this period remains at 26. This relatively low number suggests that Walela is still quite an uncommon name in the United States. It may be that parents choose this name for its uniqueness and distinctiveness, as it does not rank among the top names nationally or by state during these years.
It's important to note that the popularity of a name can vary greatly over time and from region to region. While Walela may not have gained widespread usage, it remains a unique choice with its own set of admirers who appreciate its rarity.
Sources:
- Social Security Administration data on popular baby names in the United States