Leota is a unique and distinctive female given name of Hawaiian origin. Its meaning and history are deeply rooted in the rich culture and traditions of the Hawaiian Islands.
The name Leota is believed to have been coined by King Kamehameha III, who ruled over the Kingdom of Hawaii from 1825 until his death in 1854. He named one of his daughters Leota, which was said to be a combination of two Hawaiian words: "leo," meaning "voice" or "sound," and "ta," which can be translated as "to cry out" or "to shout."
Thus, the name Leota could be interpreted as "the voice that cries out" or "the sound that shouts." This meaning is fitting for a royal daughter, suggesting perhaps that she possessed a powerful and influential voice that carried far and wide.
Leota was a significant figure in Hawaiian history. She served as a high chiefess, or "ali'i wahine," and played an important role in promoting education and culture during her time. In fact, she is often credited with establishing the first school for girls in Hawaii.
While Leota may not be one of the most popular names today, it remains a beloved and cherished name among Hawaiian families. It continues to symbolize the strength, courage, and wisdom of the women who have carried this name throughout history.
"The name Leota experienced significant popularity in the late 19th to early 20th century, with over 100 births annually between 1892 and 1921. However, its prevalence declined sharply after the 1920s, dropping below ten births per year from 1947 onwards, and consistently staying under five since 1976."