Latoya
The Meaning & Origin of the Name Latoya
Latoya, which has 6 letters and 2 syllables, is a female name of American origin.
Meaning of Latoya
Praised woman
Latoya is a feminine name of African-American origin, derived from the French name LaToya. It is believed to mean “lucky one” or “victorious one”.
| Meaning | Praised woman |
| Origin | American |
| Gender | Girl |
| Popularity (US) | #883 in 1994 Declining Fast |
| Rarity (US) | Rare (Top 1000) |
| Era | 80s name |
Background & History of The Name Latoya
Latoya is a feminine given name of African-American origin. It is believed to have originated from combining the prefix "La-" with the name "Toya." The prefix "La-" is commonly used in African-American names and serves as an intensifier, adding emphasis to the name. "Toya," on the other hand, is derived from the Spanish word "tolla," which means 'little one' or 'toy.' As a result, Latoya can be interpreted as meaning 'the little one with strong emphasis' or 'the toy with great significance.'
The name Latoya gained popularity in the mid-20th century and was particularly common among African-Americans. It exemplified the influence of African naming traditions blended with Western naming conventions. The name's rise in popularity can be attributed in part to singer and entertainer Latoya Jackson, a member of the famous Jackson family. With her rise to fame in the 1980s, the name Latoya gained further recognition and became a symbol of African-American cultural identity.
As a given name, Latoya has various spellings including LaToya, LaToiya, or LaToya. This flexibility in spelling allows individuals to customize the name while retaining its distinctiveness. Latoya continues to be used as a popular name choice for newborn girls, as it reflects a sense of strength, femininity, and cultural pride.
In summary, Latoya is a name of African-American origin, combining the prefix "La-" with the name "Toya." The name has historical significance and gained prominence through the notable figure Latoya Jackson. It represents a blend of African and Western naming conventions and continues to be cherished as a symbol of cultural identity.
Popularity Over Time
US Social Security Administration data showing the rank of Latoya over the years.
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Nicknames
Common nicknames and short forms for Latoya.
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