What does Kala mean and where does it come from?
The name Kala is of Hawaiian and Indian origin. In Hawaiian culture, 'Kala' translates to 'the sea', symbolizing life and depth. In India, the name is derived from Sanskrit and signifies 'art, talent, or time'. The first recorded use of the name in Hawaiian culture is noted in the early 20th century
Cultural significance
Kala has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Hawaii-speaking communities, where it reflects values of the sea.
Peak popularity
Reached #464 in 1989 — currently #1064 in the US.
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Related Reading
Hawaii-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Kala?
Kala works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Kala Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Kala Rose
Floral · soft ending
Kala Claire
French influence · crisp
Kala Jane
Literary · strong
Kala Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Kala right now?
Holding steady — currently #1064 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #1064 | 1,136 | ▲ up 5 · +2% births |
| 2022 | #1069 | 1,116 | ▲ up 5 · +3% births |
| 2021 | #1074 | 1,086 | ▲ up 4401 · +4836% births |
| 2020 | #5475 | 22 | ▼ down 869 · -27% births |
| 2015 | #4606 | 30 | ▲ up 278 · +3% births |
| 2010 | #4884 | 29 | ▼ down 2147 · -52% births |
| 2005 | #2737 | 61 | ▼ down 1465 · -60% births |
| 2000 | #1272 | 153 | ▼ down 579 · -50% births |
| 1995 | #693 | 308 | ▼ down 150 · -30% births |
| 1990 | #543 | 438 | ▲ up 222 · +96% births |
| 1985 | #765 | 223 | ▲ up 1230 · +321% births |
| 1980 | #1995 | 53 | ▲ up 305 · +47% births |
| 1975 | #2300 | 36 | ▼ down 158 · -5% births |
| 1970 | #2142 | 38 | ▲ up 307 · +52% births |
| 1965 | #2449 | 25 | — |
The story of Kala
Kala entered American naming records in 1943 and has been in use for over 81 years. With 7,703 total births recorded, Kala remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #5147 in 1945 to #1064 in 2023. Kala is used for both genders: 99% female and 1% male.
Names that peaked alongside Kala in 1989:
Kala by decade
Kala peaked in the 1980s. See all 1980s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1940s | 50 | |
| 1950s | 149 | |
| 1960s | 298 | |
| 1970s | 475 | |
| 1980s | 2,683 | |
| 1990s ★ | 2,996 | |
| 2000s | 801 | |
| 2010s | 229 | |
| 2020s | 22 | |
💎With 7,703 total births, Kala is an uncommon but established name.
What are good nicknames for Kala?
What names sound and feel like Kala?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Kala also consider these
Common questions about the name Kala
What does the name Kala mean?
Kala means "the sea" — 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 Kala?
Kala is currently a distinctive and less common name as a baby name in the US and is holding steady in popularity, a reliable classic that parents consistently choose.
What is the cultural origin of Kala?
Kala 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 Kala?
Kala is a two-syllable name pronounced K AA1 L AA1. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Kala a common or rare name?
Kala is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.