What does Hula mean and where does it come from?
Hula is a Polynesian dance form characterized by hip movements and gestures. It is integral to Hawaiian culture and is often accompanied by chant (oli) or song (mele). The dance has deep cultural significance and is used to tell stories or convey history. Hula was first documented by European explor
Cultural significance
Hula has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Hawaii-speaking communities, where it reflects values of hawaiian.
Peak popularity
Reached #2360 in 1907 — currently #1443 in the US.
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Related Reading
Hawaii-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Hula?
Hula works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Hula Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Hula Rose
Floral · soft ending
Hula Claire
French influence · crisp
Hula Jane
Literary · strong
Hula Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Hula right now?
Holding steady — currently #1443 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #1443 | 757 | ▲ up 5 · +3% births |
| 2022 | #1448 | 737 | ▲ up 5 · +4% births |
| 2021 | #1453 | 707 | ▲ up 3298 · +14040% births |
| 1930 | #4751 | 5 | ▼ down 170 · -17% births |
| 1925 | #4581 | 6 | — |
The story of Hula
Hula entered American naming records in 1907 and has been in use for over 117 years. With 82 total births recorded, Hula remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #4581 in 1925 to #1443 in 2023.
Names that peaked alongside Hula in 1907:
Hula by decade
Hula peaked in the 1900s. See all 1900s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1900s | 5 | |
| 1910s | 28 | |
| 1920s ★ | 39 | |
| 1930s | 5 | |
| 1940s | 5 | |
💎Hula has only 82 total recorded births since 1907 — rarer than 99% of names in our database.
What are good nicknames for Hula?
What names sound and feel like Hula?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Hula also consider these
Common questions about the name Hula
What does the name Hula mean?
Hula means "Hawaiian" — a name rooted in Hawaii tradition that carries both historical depth and timeless appeal. The meaning reflects values that have made this name endure across generations.
How popular is the name Hula?
Hula is currently a distinctive and less common name as a girl name in the US and is holding steady in popularity, a reliable classic that parents consistently choose.
What is the cultural origin of Hula?
Hula originates from Hawaii tradition. Hawaii names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
How do you pronounce the name Hula?
Hula is a two-syllable name pronounced HH UW1 L AH0. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Hula a common or rare name?
Hula is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.