Find out how popular the first name Ligaya has been for the last 44 years (from 1975 to 2018) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Ligaya by gender

Based on the last 44 years of data, Ligaya is exclusively a female name.

For the most recent data in 2018, there were 5 female babies and 0 male babies born with the name Ligaya.

The history of the first name Ligaya

The name Ligaya is of Filipino origin, derived from the Tagalog word "ligaya" which means joy, delight, or happiness. It is a name that has been in use for centuries in the Philippines, reflecting the country's rich cultural heritage and traditions.

The earliest recorded use of the name Ligaya can be traced back to the 16th century, when the Philippines was under Spanish colonial rule. During this time, the Tagalog language and its words, including "ligaya," became more widely documented and recorded by Spanish scholars and missionaries.

One of the earliest known historical references to the name Ligaya can be found in the Boxer Codex, a 16th-century manuscript written by Spanish friars describing the customs and languages of the Philippines. This document provides valuable insights into the early use and meaning of the name.

Throughout history, several notable individuals have borne the name Ligaya. Ligaya Amilbangsa (1907-1967) was a prominent Filipino poet and writer, known for her contributions to the development of Philippine literature in both English and Tagalog. Ligaya Arcilla (1910-2010) was a renowned Filipino painter and sculptor who played a significant role in the country's modern art movement.

Another notable figure was Ligaya Fruto (1905-1988), a Filipino educator and feminist who advocated for women's rights and education. She was a pioneer in establishing vocational schools for women in the Philippines. Ligaya Rillera (1929-2021) was a respected Filipino actress and singer, renowned for her performances in various stage productions and films.

In the field of sports, Ligaya Lorraine Tan Cojo (born 1992) is a Filipino-American tennis player who has represented the Philippines in international competitions. She has achieved notable success, including winning multiple titles in her career.

While the name Ligaya is predominantly associated with Filipino culture, its meaning and symbolism of joy and happiness have resonated across different societies and regions. Over the centuries, it has become a name cherished for its positive connotations and cultural significance.

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 Ligaya was researched and written by our team of onomatology and genealogy experts.

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

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