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

Popularity of Moa by gender

Based on the last 8 years of data, Moa is exclusively a male name.

For the most recent data in 2023, there were 5 male babies and 0 female babies born with the name Moa.

The history of the first name Moa

The name Moa has its roots in various cultures and languages, tracing back centuries. Its origins can be found in the Māori language of New Zealand, where it means "long-lasting" or "enduring." This name was often given to children as a symbol of resilience and perseverance.

In ancient Hawaiian culture, the name Moa was associated with the now-extinct flightless bird called the moa. This massive bird was revered for its strength and size, and the name reflected these qualities. The moa bird held significant cultural and spiritual importance in Hawaiian mythology.

The name Moa also has ties to the Polynesian island of Samoa, where it was traditionally used as a name for both genders. In Samoan culture, the name was believed to bring qualities of leadership, bravery, and determination to its bearer.

One of the earliest recorded instances of the name Moa can be found in the 16th-century Hawaiian chants and oral traditions, where it was often used to refer to revered chiefs and warriors. The name gained prominence in Hawaiian history during this period.

Throughout history, several notable individuals have borne the name Moa. One such figure was Moa Kahawaiolaa, a Hawaiian high chief who lived in the 18th century and played a crucial role in preserving Hawaiian culture and traditions.

Another notable bearer of the name was Moa Kavango, a famous Samoan warrior and chief who lived in the 19th century. He was renowned for his bravery and leadership during times of conflict.

In the world of sports, Moa Perich was a Croatian Olympic swimmer who competed in the 1952 and 1956 Summer Olympics. He won a bronze medal in the 200-meter breaststroke event at the 1952 Helsinki Olympics.

The name Moa also gained recognition in the literary world through the works of Moa Huntington, a 20th-century American author and poet known for her vivid depictions of life in the American West.

Lastly, Moa Martinson was a Swedish author and feminist activist who lived from 1890 to 1964. She was an influential figure in the Swedish literary scene and was known for her novels that explored themes of social injustice and women's rights.

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

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

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