Find out how popular the first name Moua has been for the last 23 years (from 1981 to 2003) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Moua by gender

Based on the last 23 years of data, Moua is exclusively a male name.

For the most recent data in 2003, there were 5 male babies and 0 female babies born with the name Moua.

The history of the first name Moua

The given name Moua has its origins rooted in the Hmong culture, an ethnic group indigenous to the mountainous regions of Southeast Asia, particularly in parts of China, Vietnam, Laos, and Thailand. The name is believed to have emerged during the medieval period, around the 10th to 13th centuries.

Moua is derived from the Hmong language, which belongs to the Hmong-Mien language family. The name itself is thought to be a variation or adaptation of the word "mou," which translates to "prosperous" or "flourishing." This linguistic connection suggests that the name Moua was likely bestowed upon individuals with the hope and aspiration for a prosperous and thriving life.

While there are no known direct references to the name Moua in ancient texts or religious scriptures, its cultural significance within the Hmong community can be traced back to oral traditions and folkloric narratives passed down through generations. These stories often depicted individuals bearing the name Moua as embodying resilience, strength, and a deep connection to nature and the land.

One of the earliest recorded examples of the name Moua dates back to the 16th century, when a Hmong leader and warrior named Moua Lia played a pivotal role in defending his people against invasions and securing their autonomy in the mountainous regions of what is now Vietnam. His legacy as a brave and strategic leader has been celebrated in Hmong folklore and oral histories.

Throughout history, several notable individuals have borne the name Moua, including:

1. Moua Thao (1924 - 2010), a revered Hmong shaman and spiritual leader who played a significant role in preserving Hmong cultural traditions and practices during the tumultuous period of the Vietnam War.

2. Moua Vue (1937 - 2011), a Hmong refugee and community leader who played a pivotal role in resettling thousands of Hmong families in the United States after the Vietnam War, advocating for their rights and ensuring their cultural preservation.

3. Moua Vang (1952 - present), a renowned Hmong-American artist and sculptor, known for her intricate and symbolic works that celebrate and honor Hmong culture and traditions.

4. Moua Lue (1963 - present), a Hmong-American writer and poet, whose works explore themes of identity, displacement, and the Hmong diaspora experience.

5. Moua Xiong (1975 - present), a Hmong-American educator and activist, who has dedicated her life to promoting education and empowerment within the Hmong community, particularly for women and girls.

These individuals, along with countless others throughout history, have carried the name Moua with pride and have contributed significantly to the preservation and celebration of Hmong culture, heritage, and resilience.

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

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

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