Find out how popular the first name Nicoya has been for the last 29 years (from 1982 to 2010) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Nicoya by gender

Based on the last 29 years of data, Nicoya is exclusively a female name.

For the most recent data in 2010, there were 7 female babies and 0 male babies born with the name Nicoya.

The history of the first name Nicoya

The name Nicoya has its origins in the indigenous cultures of Central America, specifically in the region of Guanacaste, Costa Rica. It is believed to be derived from the Chorotega language, spoken by the native inhabitants of the area.

One of the earliest recorded uses of the name Nicoya dates back to the 16th century when the Spanish conquistadors arrived in the region. They documented the name as referring to a specific indigenous settlement, which later became the modern-day city of Nicoya in Costa Rica. The name is thought to be derived from the Chorotega word "Nicoyan," meaning "at the warmth of the water" or "at the warm water."

While the exact origins of the name are somewhat obscure, it is clear that it holds deep significance for the indigenous people of the region. It is possible that the name was used to refer to individuals or families within the Chorotega community, although there are no definitive historical records to confirm this.

One of the earliest recorded individuals with the name Nicoya was a Chorotega chief who lived in the 16th century and is mentioned in Spanish chronicles from the time of the conquest. Unfortunately, his full name and specific details have been lost to history.

Another notable figure with the name Nicoya was Francisca Nicoya, a Chorotega woman who played a significant role in the resistance against Spanish colonization in the late 16th century. She is celebrated as a symbol of indigenous resilience and strength in Costa Rican history.

In more recent times, the name Nicoya has been used by several notable individuals, including Nicoya Calvo Facio, a Costa Rican politician and diplomat who served as the country's ambassador to the United States in the 1980s. Additionally, Nicoya Espinoza is a contemporary Costa Rican writer and poet whose works explore themes of identity and cultural heritage.

While the name Nicoya has its roots in the indigenous cultures of Central America, it has also gained popularity in other parts of the world, particularly in Latin American countries. However, its use and significance remain deeply connected to the rich history and cultural traditions of the Chorotega people and the Guanacaste region of Costa Rica.

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

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

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