Skip Ancestry navigation Skip to Footer Ancestry Home
  • Home
  • Trees
  • Search
  • Memories
  • DNA
  • Subscribe
  • Cart
  • Sign In
Home
Loading

Trees you own

    Shared with you

      Tree tools

      • My Trees
      • First Name Meanings
      • Last Name Meanings
      • Individual Records Search
      • Family Trees Support
      • Start a New Tree
      • Upload a GEDCOM
      Loading
      • All Collections
      • Census & Voter Lists
      • Birth, Marriage & Death
      • Military
      • Immigration & Travel
      • Public Member Trees
      • Card Catalogue
      • Member Search
      Memories
      Loading
      • Register a kit
      • AncestryDNA® Learning Hub
      • Traits Learning Hub
      • AncestryDNA®
      • AncestryDNA® Support
      Loading
      • Support Centre
      • Ancestry Academy
      • Community
      • Hire an expert
      • Site Status
      Loading
      • Support Centre
      • Ancestry Academy
      • Community
      • Hire an expert
      • Site Status
      • Support Centre
      • About Us
      • Site Map
      • Gift Memberships
        • Ancestry Corporate
        • Fold3.com
        • ForcesWarRecords.com
        • Geneanet.org
        • Newspapers.com
        • ProGenealogists.com
        • RootsWeb.com
      • © 2006-2025 Ancestry
      • Privacy
      • Cookies
      • Terms and Conditions
      • Operated by Ancestry Ireland Unlimited Company

      Meaning of the first name
      Kapena

      Origin 
      Hawaiian

      Meaning 
      Captain

      Variations 
      Kalena, Karena, Kawena

      *Some content has been generated by an artificial intelligence language model, in combination with data sourced from Ancestry records and provided by BabyNames.com.
      The name Kapena originates from the Hawaiian language and is derived from the word kpena, which means Captain. It is a name deeply embedded in the rich history and culture of the Hawaiian people. In the past, Kapena was used to refer to the leader of a ship or a skilled navigator who possessed great expertise in sailing across the vast Pacific Ocean. These Kapenas played a crucial role in the discovery and settlement of the Hawaiian Islands, as they guided large canoes known as wa'a to their destinations.

      Throughout history, Kapenas were revered for their leadership qualities and their ability to navigate treacherous waters. Their knowledge in celestial navigation, wind patterns, and natural signs allowed them to ferry people and goods safely across the ocean. They held significant influence within their communities and were essential in establishing trade networks and cultural exchanges between the Hawaiian Islands and neighboring lands.

      In present-day usage, the name Kapena still holds significance within Hawaiian culture. While the title of Kapena may not be as prevalent today, the name is commonly adopted as a first name. It serves as a reminder of the historical and cultural importance of navigation and seafaring to the people of Hawaii. The name Kapena symbolizes leadership, courage, and navigational expertise and continues to be embraced by individuals seeking to honor their Hawaiian heritage.
      Based on our records...
      This is the most common surname, spouse name and child name associated with Kapena.
      Kea

      is the most common surname for Kapena.

      Malani

      is the most common spouse name for Kapena.

      Mikala

      is the most common child name for Kapena.

      Start your curiosity engines.

      Ready to learn more about your own family? Here are two ways to begin.
      Free Trial
      Order Ancestry
      did_you_know_bar
      Based on our records...
      Did you know?
      1991 is when there were the most people born with the first name Kapena.

      We'll guide you through the process of building and growing your tree

      Explore the origins of another name.