What does Moana mean?

In Hawaiian and other Polynesian languages, Moana means 'ocean', 'sea', or 'large body of water'.

How do you pronounce Moana?

It is pronounced moh-AH-nah, with the emphasis on the second syllable.

Is Moana a boy or girl name?

While used primarily for girls in the United States, Moana is traditionally a unisex name in many Polynesian cultures.

Is Moana a real Hawaiian name?

Yes, Moana is a traditional name used throughout the Hawaiian Islands and the broader Pacific.

Moana

/moh-AH-nah/

HawaiianGirl

Moana is a Hawaiian girl's name pronounced /moh-AH-nah/. A classic name referring to the vast, deep blue expanse of the open ocean.

Meaning of Moana

A classic name referring to the vast, deep blue expanse of the open ocean.

Moana is a common noun and proper name across various Polynesian languages, including Hawaiian, Maori, and Tahitian, directly translating to 'ocean' or 'sea'. Historically, it represents the vast, deep blue expanse of the open water, a central element of life and navigation for Pacific Island cultures.

Origin: Hawaiian
Pronunciation: /moh-AH-nah/

Cultural background

The name remains a popular gender-neutral choice in New Zealand, Hawaii, and French Polynesia, though it gained global prominence as a feminine name following the 2016 Disney film.

Variations & nicknames

Moana-nui
Moanakeala
Moane
Moa

Famous people named Moana

Well-known namesakes — celebrities, historical figures and characters.

Moana Pozzi
Influential Italian actress, television personality, and writer.
Film and Television · 1980s-1994
Moana Carcasses Kalosil
Former Prime Minister of Vanuatu and prominent politician.
Politics · 2000s-present
Moana Hope
Professional Australian rules footballer who played in the AFLW.
Sport · 2010s-present
Moana Waialiki
The title protagonist of Disney's 2016 animated feature film set in Polynesia.
Film · 2016-present
Moana Jackson
Renowned New Zealand Māori lawyer and specialist in indigenous rights.
Law · 1980s-2022

Frequently asked about Moana

What does Moana mean?: In Hawaiian and other Polynesian languages, Moana means 'ocean', 'sea', or 'large body of water'.
How do you pronounce Moana?: It is pronounced moh-AH-nah, with the emphasis on the second syllable.
Is Moana a boy or girl name?: While used primarily for girls in the United States, Moana is traditionally a unisex name in many Polynesian cultures.
Is Moana a real Hawaiian name?: Yes, Moana is a traditional name used throughout the Hawaiian Islands and the broader Pacific.

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