Tui
chief
New Zealand origin · Boy name
97% boys3% girls
#14147US 2022
5Births / yr
Stable
6All-time births
📅 Since 201900

What does Tui mean and where does it come from?

The name Tui has its origins in the Māori language of New Zealand and is often associated with a native bird of the same name, which is known for its distinctive bell-like songs. In Māori culture, 'Tui' signifies leadership, as it translates to 'chief.' The name is also found in Samoa, where it mean

Cultural significance
Tui has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in New Zealand-speaking communities, where it reflects values of chief.
Peak popularity
Reached #12086 in 2019 — currently #14147 in the US.
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Related Reading
New Zealand-origin baby names with timeless appeal
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What middle names flow best with Tui?

Tui works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful

Tui Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Tui Rose
Floral · soft ending
Tui Mae
Sweet · timeless
Tui Claire
French influence · crisp
Tui Jane
Literary · strong
Tui Skye
Modern · airy feel
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Middle Names
The best middle names for Tui
Browse ideas →

How popular is Tui right now?

Stable — currently #14147 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names

US Trend 20222022#14147 · Top 10%
2022
YearUS RankBirthsvs Prior Year
2022#141475

The story of Tui

Tui is a relatively modern name, first appearing in US records in 2019. With 6 total births recorded, Tui remains relatively uncommon.

Names that peaked alongside Tui in 2019:

💎Tui has only 6 total recorded births since 2019 — rarer than 99% of names in our database.

What are good nicknames for Tui?

Common
TuieTuy

Common questions about the name Tui

What does the name Tui mean?
Tui means "chief" — a name rooted in New Zealand tradition that carries both historical depth and timeless appeal. The meaning reflects values that have made this name endure across generations.
How popular is the name Tui?
Tui is currently a distinctive and less common name as a boy name in the US and is becoming rarer and more distinctive, making it a unique choice that stands out.
What is the cultural origin of Tui?
Tui originates from New Zealand tradition. New Zealand names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
How does Tui sound with different last names?
As a one-syllable name, Tui flows best with last names of two or three syllables. Avoid last names ending in the same sound as Tui ends, as this can create an unwanted rhyme. Test by saying the full name out loud several times.
Is Tui a common or rare name?
Tui is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.