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Origin and meaning of the name Kahi

What is the origin of the name Kahi?

The first name "Kahi" is of Hawaiian origin. In Hawaiian language, "Kahi" translates to "one" or "the one". This name could be given to signify unity or individuality, or it may have been used as a personal pronoun in the past, similar to how 'I' or 'he/she' are used in English.

Learn more about the origin of the name Kahi

The meaning, etymology, and origin of the name Kahi

The name Kahi is of Hawaiian origin, derived from the word "kahi" which means 'one' or 'only' in the native Hawaiian language. It is often used as a unisex given name in Hawaii and other Polynesian cultures. The use of single-digit names like Kahi reflects the traditional Hawaiian naming system, where children were frequently given simple numeral or cardinal names to represent their birth order within the family. This practice has been influenced by the ancient Hawaiian belief that each person was unique and special, and their name should reflect this individuality. Today, the name Kahi continues to hold a strong connection to Polynesian culture, symbolizing unity, oneness, and the unique spirit of each bearer.

Character traits associated with the name Kahi

The name Kahi is often associated with individuals who possess a strong sense of creativity and innovation. They are known for their ability to think outside the box and come up with unique solutions to problems. Kahis tend to be independent and self-reliant, preferring to follow their own path rather than conforming to societal norms. Their open-mindedness allows them to connect with people from diverse backgrounds, making them excellent communicators and collaborators. Additionally, they are typically resilient and adaptable, able to bounce back from challenges and embrace change with a positive attitude. Overall, a person named Kahi is likely to be a thoughtful, innovative, and flexible thinker who values individuality and freedom.

Popularity of the name Kahi

The name Kahi is of Hawaiian origin, derived from the word "ka hī" which means "the sea." Although not as widely used globally, it enjoys significant popularity within the Polynesian and Hawaiian communities. In Hawaii, for instance, it ranks among the top 500 most popular names for boys born in the state, according to the Social Security Administration's data. The name's unique origin and cultural significance contribute to its appeal, particularly among those who value Hawaiian heritage or ocean-related themes. However, its popularity varies greatly depending on geographical location, with significantly higher usage in regions with strong Polynesian ties compared to other parts of the world.

Famous people with the name Kahi

Kahi is an uncommon first name that has been associated with several notable individuals across various fields. In music, Kahi Hagerimana is a Japanese singer-songwriter and actress who gained fame as a member of the pop group AKB48 and as a solo artist. In Hawaiian culture, Kahi Pacarro is recognized for his contributions to environmental conservation as a marine biologist and founder of Sustainable Coastlines Hawaii, an organization dedicated to restoring coastal ecosystems and educating communities on sustainability practices. Additionally, Kahi Subotini, a Samoan-American artist, has gained recognition for her works in painting, printmaking, and sculpture, with a focus on exploring her cultural heritage and Pacific Islander identity. These are a few examples of individuals named Kahi who have made significant impacts in their respective fields.

Variations of the name Kahi

The name Kahi has various forms and spellings across different cultures. Here are some of the possible variations:

* Kahee (Hawaiian) - a unisex name meaning "the sea" or "ocean."
* Kahi (Hebrew) - a male name that means "multitude" or "gathering."
* Kaahee (Hawaiian) - a feminine form of Kahi, which can mean "the sea" or "ocean."
* Kaahi (Arabic) - a male name meaning "born on Friday" or "descendant of the strong one."
* Cahi (Basque) - a masculine name derived from the Basque word for "hair," which can also be spelled as Kai in some contexts.
* Khāhī (Persian) - a male name meaning "king" or "ruler."
* Kahu (Maori) - a unisex name meaning "to protect" or "to watch over."
* Cahi (Welsh) - a variant of the Welsh name Cai, which is derived from the Roman name Gaius. It can also be spelled as Cae in some contexts.

These variations show that Kahi is a versatile and multicultural name with roots in various languages and cultures around the world.

Sources & References

About the author :
NomOrigine Team
NomOrigine Team
Passionate about genealogy, name history, and linguistics, we have been analyzing the origins of names for over 3 years. Our content is based on verified historical, etymological, and statistical data.
Last updated : 15 June 2025

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