toa

[ tohuh ]

noun
  1. in various Indigenous Polynesian cultures, a fearless warrior.

  2. a tall hardwood tree (Casuarina equisetifolia) native to Southeast Asia, Australia, and Polynesia: used by the Indigenous inhabitants of Polynesia to make tools and weapons.

Origin of toa

1
First recorded in 1775–85; def. 1 from Maori; def. 2 from one of the Polynesian languages, perhaps also Maori

Words Nearby toa

Dictionary.com Unabridged Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2024

How to use toa in a sentence

  • Meanwhile, a guard had entered the great room and approached Vulcar, the one who had reminded Tharn of toa, the hawk.

    Warrior of the Dawn | Howard Carleton Browne
  • Then as they are almost all fighting men (tata toa) they are restricted that they may not weaken or enervate themselves.

  • To-morrow morning repair to the islet called toa-marama; it will be a place of safety for you and your children.'

  • Presently the road turned to the westward, following the valley of the toa River.

    Plotting in Pirate Seas | Francis Rolt-Wheeler
  • Bessy wor blushin, an' seemed varry mich takken up wi' her toa 'at had popt throo th' end ov her slipper.

    Yorksher Puddin' | John Hartley