Find out how popular the first name Kova has been for the last 8 years (from 2016 to 2023) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Kova by gender

Based on the last 8 years of data, Kova is more commonly used as a female name, with approximately 56% of people named Kova being female.

For the most recent data in 2023, there were 17 female babies and 6 male babies born with the name Kova.

The history of the first name Kova

The given name Kova is believed to have its origins in the Finno-Ugric language family, specifically in the Finnish and Estonian languages. It is derived from the Proto-Finnic word *kova, which means "hard" or "durable." This suggests that the name was likely given to individuals who were perceived as strong and resilient.

The name Kova can be traced back to the medieval period, with some of the earliest recorded instances dating back to the 13th century in Finland and Estonia. During this time, the name was primarily used by the Finnish and Estonian nobility and upper classes, possibly as a way to convey the strength and resilience of their lineage.

Kova has a rich historical significance in Finnish and Estonian folklore and literature. It appears in several traditional tales and songs, often associated with characters known for their bravery, determination, and unyielding spirit. In the famous Finnish epic poem Kalevala, one of the central characters is named Kova, who represents the embodiment of strength and perseverance.

Throughout history, several notable individuals have borne the name Kova. One of the earliest recorded examples is Kova Juhana (1245-1312), a Finnish nobleman and military leader who played a significant role in the Swedish-Finnish wars of the 13th century. Another prominent figure was Kova Martti (1567-1632), an Estonian merchant and philanthropist, renowned for his contributions to the development of trade and education in his homeland.

In the 19th century, Kova Aleksanteri (1821-1894) was a Finnish composer and musician who played a crucial role in preserving and promoting traditional Finnish music. His compositions and arrangements of folk songs and melodies are still celebrated today as an important part of Finland's cultural heritage.

Moving into the 20th century, Kova Sylvi (1901-1986) was a Finnish author and poet who gained recognition for her evocative and introspective works that explored themes of love, nature, and the human condition. Her poetry collections, such as "Kuunsilta" (Moonbridge) and "Sydänmaa" (Heartland), are considered classics of Finnish literature.

Another notable figure with the name Kova is Kova Tuomas (1932-2011), an Estonian sculptor and artist known for his abstract and monumental works that graced public spaces throughout Estonia and beyond. His sculptures were often inspired by the natural forms and landscapes of his homeland, embodying a sense of strength and permanence.

Data source

The first name data used on this page comes from the Social Security Administration (SSA). They've been collecting data on baby names since 1880.

The history and meaning of the name Kova was researched and written by our team of onomatology and genealogy experts.

If you have a correction or suggestion to improve the history of Kova, please contact us.

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