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Last Name Ohia

What is the origin of the last name Ohia?

The last name "Ohia" is of Hawaiian origin. It is likely derived from the Hawaiian word "ohi'a," which refers to the native Hawaiian tree species known as "Metrosideros polymorpha," also called the 'Ōhi'a lehua tree. Ohia is a common last name among people of Hawaiian descent.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Ohia

The meaning and origin of the last name Ohia

The surname Ohia has its origins in Hawaii, specifically from the Hawaiian language. In Hawaiian, "ohia" refers to a native tree species found in the islands. The name is also used as a given name for both males and females in Hawaii, often symbolizing strength, resilience, and connection to the land. It is possible that the surname Ohia was adopted by individuals or families who had ancestral ties to the land where the ohia trees grew or who wanted to honor the significance of the tree in Hawaiian culture. Today, the surname Ohia is still relatively uncommon and is often found among individuals of Hawaiian descent or those with connections to the islands.

Geographical distribution of the last name Ohia

The last name Ohia is predominantly found in Hawaii, where it likely originated from. It is a name that is specific to the indigenous population of the Hawaiian Islands, reflecting their cultural heritage and identity. Due to migration and diaspora, there are also smaller populations of individuals with the last name Ohia in other parts of the United States, such as California and Washington. However, the concentration of individuals with this surname is highest in Hawaii, where families have carried on the name for generations. The name Ohia is likely to be linked to the native ohia tree, which is a symbol of strength and resilience in Hawaiian culture. Overall, the geographical distribution of the last name Ohia is reflective of the history and migration patterns of the Hawaiian people.

Variants and spellings of the last name Ohia

The last name Ohia can be spelled and written in various ways, including Ohea, Ohya, Ohyah, Ohiya, Ohye, and Ohiyah. These variations may be a result of different transliterations of the name from its original language or simply different spellings that have emerged over time. In some cases, the pronunciation may remain the same despite the spelling differences, while in others, the variations may lead to slightly different pronunciations. Ultimately, the variations in spelling and pronunciation of the last name Ohia reflect the diversity and complexity of language and culture. Whether spelled as Ohia, Ohea, Ohya, or any other variation, the name likely holds significance and meaning for those who bear it, connecting them to their heritage and familial roots.

Famous people with the last name Ohia

Jason Molina, a critically acclaimed musician and singer-songwriter, is one of the most famous individuals with the last name Ohia. Molina was the frontman of the band Songs: Ohia and later formed the band Magnolia Electric Co. with members of his previous group. He was known for his hauntingly beautiful lyrics and melancholic melodies, garnering a cult following within the indie music scene. Unfortunately, Molina struggled with alcoholism and mental health issues throughout his life, leading to his untimely death in 2013. Despite his personal struggles, Molina's music continues to resonate with fans and critics alike, cementing his legacy as a talented and influential artist in the world of alternative and folk rock music.

Genealogical research on the last name Ohia

The surname Ohia is of Hawaiian origin and is believed to have derived from the Ohia tree, which is a native tree of Hawaii and holds cultural significance in Hawaiian folklore. The genealogical research on the last name Ohia suggests that it is a relatively uncommon surname, with a limited number of individuals carrying this name. It is likely that those with the surname Ohia may have ancestral ties to Hawaii, specifically to the native Hawaiian people. The name Ohia may also be associated with the Maori people of New Zealand, as the Ohia tree is also present in Maori culture. Overall, the surname Ohia is linked to the indigenous peoples of Hawaii and may hold ancestral connections to the Polynesian peoples of the Pacific.

Last name distribution maps

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Sources & References

About the author :
NomOrigine Team
NomOrigine Team
Passionate about genealogy, name history, and linguistics, we have been analyzing the origins of names for over 3 years. Our content is based on verified historical, etymological, and statistical data.
Last updated : 11 April 2025

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