toa

[ tohuh ]

noun

in various Indigenous Polynesian cultures, a fearless warrior.
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

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

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.
A Voyage to the South Sea | William Bligh
To-morrow morning repair to the islet called toa-marama; it will be a place of safety for you and your children.'
The Contemporary Review, Volume 36, November 1879 | Various
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

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