Names like Moana
Moana is a three-syllable Hawaiian name that ends on a vowel. Each list below follows one of those threads on its own, so you can see exactly what the names share.
The same sound
Three syllables, ending the same way as Moana.
Makena Hawaiian · traditionally 'abundance'; also a place name on Maui
Gianna Italian · "God is gracious," the Italian short form of Giovanna, John's feminine; long an everyday name in Italy, it surged in 2000s America ahead of its mother name, with Gigi as its playful nickname
Marina Latin · of the sea; also a real Japanese given name (真里奈, 麻里奈) carried by singers and idols, while remaining a fully established Western name in its own right
Milana Slavic · traditionally linked to grace, or to the city of Milan; a popular contemporary Slavic name
The same roots
Also Hawaiian names, from the tradition Moana comes from.
Iolana Hawaiian · to soar like a hawk
Kai Hawaiian · "sea" in Hawaiian; also an independent name in Scandinavian, Japanese, and Chinese use, each with its own root and history. One crisp syllable that belongs everywhere, which is the secret of its global rise
Luana Hawaiian · traditionally 'enjoyment' or 'contentment' in Hawaiian; also used as a Portuguese blend of Luana
Anuhea Hawaiian · cool, soft fragrance
The same feel
Also international, modern and nature names.
Melina Greek · elaboration of Mel, from names such as Melissa or the Greek meli, "honey"
Leena Arabic · variant of Lina, "soft, tender"
Talia Hebrew · dew from heaven
Damia Malay · traditionally linked to Arabic dima, soft steady rain. One of Malaysia's most-registered girls' names of the 2010s and 2020s, part of the melodic modern cohort alongside Alya, Hana, and Qistina.
Names of the same moment
Each of these is at its highest in the 2020s, the same decade as Moana, on a similar curve.
Alana Hawaiian · awakening, offering; precious
Milena Slavic · gracious, dear one; Slavic feminine of Milan
Malena Spanish · variant of Magdalena, meaning 'of Magdala', a place in the Bible
Kalia Hawaiian · traditionally 'flower' or a garland of flowers
Which of these fits YOUR family? →