Find out how popular the first name Tei has been for the last 3 years (from 2005 to 2007) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Tei by gender

Based on the last 3 years of data, Tei is exclusively a male name.

For the most recent data in 2007, there were 6 male babies and 0 female babies born with the name Tei.

The history of the first name Tei

The given name Tei has its origins in Japanese culture, dating back to the 7th century AD. It is derived from the Japanese word "tei," which means "radiant" or "shining." The name is often associated with beauty, grace, and elegance.

In ancient Japanese literature, the name Tei is mentioned in several poetic works, including the Man'yoshu, the oldest existing collection of Japanese poetry. It was often used as a symbolic representation of the radiance of the moon or the brilliance of the stars.

One of the earliest recorded examples of the name Tei is Tei no Miko, a princess who lived during the Nara period (710-794 AD). She was known for her exceptional beauty and was a prominent figure in the imperial court.

Throughout history, several notable figures have borne the name Tei. Tei Fujiwara (1226-1283) was a renowned Japanese poet and calligrapher during the Kamakura period. Her works are celebrated for their delicate elegance and profound insights into the human condition.

Another famous bearer of the name was Tei Nakatani (1838-1897), a Japanese painter and printmaker who was instrumental in reviving the traditional woodblock printing technique known as ukiyo-e. His vibrant depictions of everyday life in Edo-period Japan are considered masterpieces of the genre.

In the realm of literature, Tei Tookyo (1891-1945) was a celebrated Japanese novelist and poet. Her works often explored themes of love, loss, and the human condition, earning her widespread acclaim both within Japan and internationally.

Tei Kawamura (1916-2000) was a pioneering Japanese actress who paved the way for women in the film industry. She starred in numerous critically acclaimed movies and was recognized for her versatility and dedication to her craft.

The name Tei has also been associated with various historical figures in other cultures, though its origins and meaning may differ from the Japanese context. For instance, in ancient Greek mythology, Tei was one of the Oceanids, the three thousand daughters of the Titans Oceanus and Tethys.

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

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

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