Find out how popular the first name Toa has been for the last 18 years (from 2006 to 2023) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Toa by gender

Based on the last 18 years of data, Toa is exclusively a male name.

For the most recent data in 2023, there were 14 male babies and 0 female babies born with the name Toa.

The history of the first name Toa

The name Toa has its origins in the Polynesian languages, particularly in Samoan and Tongan. It is derived from the Proto-Polynesian word "to'a," which means "brave" or "fearless." The name Toa has been in use since ancient times in these Polynesian cultures, reflecting the importance of courage and strength in their warrior traditions.

One of the earliest recorded instances of the name Toa can be found in the Tongan oral traditions and legends. In these stories, Toa was often used as a descriptive term for brave warriors and chieftains who displayed exceptional valor on the battlefield or in times of crisis.

The name Toa also appears in various Polynesian creation myths and religious texts. In the Samoan creation story, Toa is mentioned as one of the primordial beings responsible for shaping the world. This association with the divine realm further solidifies the name's connection to strength and power.

Throughout history, there have been several notable individuals bearing the name Toa. One of the most famous was Toa Naupoto, a celebrated Samoan chief who lived in the late 18th century. He was known for his military prowess and his role in unifying various Samoan villages under his leadership.

Another significant figure was Toa Rangatira, a revered Maori chief from New Zealand in the early 19th century. He played a crucial role in facilitating peaceful relations between the Maori tribes and the European settlers during the early stages of colonization.

In the realm of sports, Toa Filipo (born 1984) is a notable Samoan-born rugby union player who has represented both Samoa and New Zealand at the international level. His name, Toa, reflects the physical strength and resilience required in the sport.

In the arts, Toa Greening (born 1961) is a celebrated Hawaiian musician and composer known for his contributions to the contemporary Hawaiian music scene. His name honors his Polynesian heritage and the cultural importance of music in these island communities.

Another noteworthy individual was Toa Nairai (1920-2001), a renowned Tahitian artist and sculptor who played a significant role in preserving and promoting traditional Polynesian art forms. His name, Toa, reflected the strength and resilience needed to keep these cultural traditions alive.

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

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

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