Traditional Papua New Guinea Names

Firstborn, leader, or traditional name

peace, tranquility, security, trust

Beautiful, graceful, or 'Igbos' (people)

Common name, often referring to a place or an ancestor

Chief, important person

Butterfly; delicate beauty

A strong and traditional name

Flower or bloom

Garden, fertility, or a type of tree

Refers to a specific type of tree or plant

Mother, woman

Star, bright

Strength, power

Flower or blossom

Associated with strength and protection

Beautiful, graceful

village, home

Sun, day, or god; also green, yellow, or tawny

Halo, moonlight, glory

industrious, prosperous

Uncle, elder brother

strong, brave

Strong, brave

Star, bright light

Stork, or a type of bird

Mountain, high place

Traditional name, often related to water

Path, journey

Pearl, jewel; also a pet name or lullaby sound

Light, star, or short form of various names

Likely has a specific cultural significance within Motu language and customs

Pearl or peace

Spirit, magic, or supernatural power

good, beautiful, dance, plum

Garland, necklace (Sanskrit); group, collective (Motu)

Power, spirit, supernatural force

Jewel, precious stone

bird, spirit, or man

Ocean, sea; admirable, wonderful; peace, world; prosperous

Moon or night

Diminutive of names like Mohammed, meaning 'praised, commendable', or a Japanese peach.

Traditional Motu name, often associated with leadership or a specific clan.

To be near, close by; presence

good, fine

Grace, grandmother, or queen

Land, earth, human being, often associated with strength and nature.

To stay, to dwell, to sit, to live, to be present.

Rain or water