Maori names - Baby names with the origin Maori

What is a Maori Name?

A Maori name is a traditional name used by the indigenous people of New Zealand, the Maori. These names are usually composed of two or three syllables and typically include a prefix and suffix. They are often used to represent an individual's ancestry, family connections, and tribal affiliations. Maori names are also used to remember and honor ancestors, and to express a person's identity.

History of Maori Names

Maori names have been used for centuries, with many of the names still in use today having been passed down through generations. Traditionally, Maori names were composed of two or three syllables and included a prefix and suffix. The prefix was typically the name of the ancestor, while the suffix was used to denote a connection to a certain tribal group or family. These names were used to represent a person's ancestry, family connections, and tribal affiliations.

Meaning of Maori Names

Maori names often have a deep meaning and symbolism associated with them. For example, the name “Hine-te-iwaiwa” means “daughter of the rainbow”, while “Rangi” means “sky”. Other Maori names may be associated with certain characteristics, such as “Kahurangi” which means “precious” or “Tawhiti” which means “far away”.

Giving a Maori Name

Traditionally, Maori names were given to a child at birth or shortly after. The name was chosen by the parents or grandparents, and often had a connection to the family’s ancestry or tribal affiliations. In modern times, Maori names are still given to children, but they are also used by adults to represent their identity or as a way to honor their ancestors.

Conclusion

Maori names are an important part of the culture and identity of the Maori people. They are used to remember and honor ancestors, to represent a person's ancestry, family connections, and tribal affiliations, and to express a person's identity. Maori names are often chosen at birth or shortly after, and have a deep meaning and symbolism associated with them.