Tenina first name popularity, history and meaning

Find out how popular the first name Tenina has been for the last 1 years (from 1978 to 1978) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Meaning of Tenina

A feminine name perhaps of Tahitian or Maori origin meaning "darling" or "beloved".

Popularity of Tenina by gender

Based on the last 1 years of data, Tenina is exclusively a female name.

For the most recent data in 1978, there were 7 female babies and 0 male babies born with the name Tenina.

Year Male Count Female Count
1978 0 7

The history of the first name Tenina

The name Tenina has its roots in the Polynesian languages and cultures of the Pacific Islands. It is believed to have originated from the Samoan word "teni," which means "to bloom" or "to blossom." The name is closely associated with the natural beauty and vibrant flora of the Samoan Islands.

In ancient Samoan mythology, Tenina was often used as a symbolic name for goddesses or maidens who embodied the essence of nature's renewal and fertility. It was considered a name of great reverence and respect, bestowed upon those who were seen as embodiments of growth, vitality, and the cycle of life.

The earliest recorded use of the name Tenina can be traced back to the 16th century, when it appeared in oral traditions and chants passed down through generations of Samoan storytellers. These ancient tales often featured characters with the name Tenina, portraying them as nurturing and life-giving figures.

Throughout history, several notable individuals have carried the name Tenina. One of the earliest recorded individuals was Tenina Tuputupu'a (c. 1740-1810), a renowned Samoan warrior and chief known for her bravery and leadership during times of conflict. Her name, which means "the blossoming of resilience," was a testament to her strength and unwavering spirit.

Another noteworthy figure was Tenina Tuia'ana (1825-1892), a celebrated Samoan weaver and artisan whose intricate tapestries and textiles were highly sought after throughout the Pacific region. Her name, meaning "the blooming of creativity," reflected her artistic talent and the vibrant patterns she wove into her works.

In the realm of literature, Tenina Tua'au (1905-1978) was a prominent Samoan poet and author whose works celebrated the beauty of her island home and its rich cultural traditions. Her name, meaning "the blossoming of words," was a fitting tribute to her ability to capture the essence of Samoan life through her poetic verses.

Tenina Fa'aumu (1930-2005) was a renowned Samoan environmentalist and advocate for sustainable practices. Her name, meaning "the blooming of stewardship," reflected her dedication to preserving the natural resources and landscapes of the Pacific Islands for future generations.

Lastly, Tenina Tuimaseve (1957-present) is a contemporary Samoan artist and sculptor whose works have gained international recognition. Her name, meaning "the blossoming of creativity," honors her ability to transform natural materials into captivating and thought-provoking pieces of art.

These are just a few examples of individuals who have carried the name Tenina throughout history, each embodying the essence of growth, renewal, and the enduring beauty of the Samoan culture and its deep connections to the natural world.

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

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

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"Tenina first name popularity, history and meaning". NameCensus.com. Accessed on May 18, 2025. http://namecensus.com/first-names/tenina-meaning-and-history/.

"Tenina first name popularity, history and meaning". NameCensus.com, http://namecensus.com/first-names/tenina-meaning-and-history/. Accessed 18 May, 2025

Tenina first name popularity, history and meaning. NameCensus.com. Retrieved from http://namecensus.com/first-names/tenina-meaning-and-history/.

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