Find out how popular the first name Sosaia has been for the last 37 years (from 1987 to 2023) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Sosaia by gender

Based on the last 37 years of data, Sosaia 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 Sosaia.

The history of the first name Sosaia

The name Sosaia originates from the Polynesian island of Samoa, where it has been used for centuries. It is derived from the Samoan words "so" meaning "sacred" and "saia" meaning "garment" or "cloth." The name translates to "sacred garment" or "sacred cloth," possibly referring to traditional Samoan ceremonial dress or attire worn by chiefs and high-ranking individuals.

Sosaia is a variation of the more common Samoan name Iosefo or Joseph, which was introduced to the islands by Christian missionaries in the early 19th century. The name Iosefo itself is derived from the Hebrew name Yosef, meaning "he will add" or "he will increase." Sosaia may have been adopted as a Samoanized version of this biblical name.

In ancient Samoan oral traditions and legends, there are no known references to individuals bearing the name Sosaia. However, the earliest recorded instances of the name can be found in church records and genealogical accounts from the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

One of the earliest notable individuals named Sosaia was Sosaia Faumuina, a Samoan chief and orator who lived in the late 19th century. He was renowned for his oratory skills and his role in preserving Samoan culture and traditions.

Another prominent figure with this name was Sosaia Salima, a Samoan politician and lawyer who served as a member of the Legislative Assembly of Samoa in the early 20th century. He was born in 1884 and played a significant role in advocating for Samoan rights and self-governance.

In the literary realm, Sosaia Levi Tavita was a notable Samoan author and poet who lived from 1888 to 1977. He is best known for his works capturing Samoan folklore, traditions, and cultural values.

Sosaia Tuitahi, born in 1920, was a renowned Samoan artist and woodcarver. His intricate carvings and sculptures depicting Samoan mythology and cultural themes are highly regarded and can be found in various museums and collections around the world.

Sosaia Mataafa Neru, born in 1945, is a Samoan paramount chief and leader of the Mataafa family. He has played a significant role in preserving and promoting Samoan cultural heritage and has been actively involved in various community and cultural initiatives.

These are just a few examples of notable individuals throughout history who have carried the name Sosaia, highlighting its deep roots and cultural significance within the Samoan community.

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

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

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