Everything about the name KOA

Meaning, origin, history

Koa is a unique and distinctive name of Hawaiian origin. It is derived from the Hawaiian word "koa," which refers to a species of tree native to Hawaii. The koa tree is highly valued for its strong, durable wood, used traditionally by Native Hawaiians in canoe making and other crafts.

The name Koa was traditionally given to boys in ancient Hawaii, but it has since become unisex and is used for both males and females today. While there is no specific meaning attributed to the name Koa beyond its association with the koa tree, it evokes images of strength, resilience, and connection to nature.

Throughout Hawaiian history, the koa tree has played an important role in the culture and mythology of the islands. It was considered a sacred tree by ancient Hawaiians, who believed that the spirits of their ancestors resided within its branches. The koa tree was also associated with chiefs and royalty, as they were often buried beneath its shade.

Today, the name Koa continues to be popular among families with Hawaiian heritage or those drawn to the beauty and spirit of Hawaii. It is a name that embodies the values of strength, respect for nature, and connection to one's cultural roots. Whether given to a boy or girl, Koa is a name that carries with it a rich history and deep significance.

Popularity of the name KOA since 1880

Birth evolution

Popularity analysis

The name Koa has seen a significant increase in popularity over the past few decades in the United States. With only seven births recorded each year between 1978 and 1981, it was quite rare during that period. However, starting from the mid-1990s, there was a notable rise in its usage.

In 1995, 13 babies were named Koa, marking a significant jump from the previous years' averages. This trend continued steadily throughout the late 1990s and early 2000s, with around 17 to 33 births per year between 1996 and 2004.

A more substantial growth began in 2005, with 42 Koa babies born that year. This was followed by a steady increase over the next decade, reaching 88 births in 2011 and doubling to 176 births by 2013.

The most recent data shows an impressive surge in popularity for the name Koa, with 940 births recorded in 2022 alone. This represents a significant increase from the previous year's figure of 535 births, indicating that many parents are choosing this name for their children today.

In total, over the past four decades, there have been 5259 babies named Koa born in the United States.