Skip Ancestry navigation Skip to Footer Ancestry Home
  • Home
  • Trees
  • Search
  • Memories
  • DNA
  • Subscribe
  • Cart
  • Sign In
Home
Loading

Trees you own

    Shared with you

      Tree tools

      • My Trees
      • First Name Meanings
      • Last Name Meanings
      • Individual Records Search
      • Family Trees Support
      • Start a New Tree
      • Upload a GEDCOM
      Loading
      • Search All Records
      • Census & Electoral Rolls
      • Birth, Marriage & Death, including Parish
      • Military
      • Wills & Probate
      • Immigration & Travel
      • Schools, Directories & Church Histories
      • Public Member Trees
      • Card Catalogue
      • Member Search
      Memories
      Loading
      • Register a kit
      • AncestryDNA® Learning Hub
      • Traits Learning Hub
      • AncestryDNA®
      • AncestryDNA® Support
      Loading
      • Support Centre
      • Ancestry Academy
      • Community
      • Hire an expert
      • Site Status
      Loading
      • Support Centre
      • Ancestry Academy
      • Community
      • Hire an expert
      • Site Status
      • Support Centre
      • Ancestry Blog
      • About Us
      • Site Map
      • Gift Memberships
      • Careers
        • Ancestry Corporate
        • Fold3.com
        • ForcesWarRecords.com
        • Geneanet.org
        • Newspapers.com
        • ProGenealogists.com
        • RootsWeb.com
      • © 2002-2026 Ancestry
      • Privacy
      • Cookies
      • Terms and Conditions
      • Operated by Ancestry Ireland Unlimited Company

      Meaning of the first name
      Tena

      Origin 
      English, Derived from Latin

      Meaning 
      To Soften or to Tenderize

      Variations 
      Tenant, Tenaya, Tenauri

      *Some content has been generated by an artificial intelligence language model, in combination with data sourced from Ancestry records and provided by BabyNames.com.
      The name Tena has its roots in the English language, deriving from the Latin word tener, which means to soften or to tenderize. This connection highlights an inherent quality of gentleness and approachability associated with the name. Tena can denote a nurturing nature or suggest a person who is empathetic and caring. Its etymological significance reflects a broader cultural appreciation for traits that embody tenderness and warmth.

      Historically, Tena appears sporadically in various records, primarily in English-speaking regions. The name has been used both as a given name and as a surname. In earlier centuries, names derived from Latin often held specific meanings that resonated with the virtues society valued at the time. While Tena may not possess a lengthy or notable historical lineage, its roots in classical language tie it to a broader context of human experience and sentiment.

      In contemporary times, Tena remains relatively uncommon as a first name, though it can still be found in various communities. It is often seen as a unique choice for parents looking for a name that embodies gentleness and care. Additionally, the name has found utility in modern branding and commercial contexts, where the qualities of tenderness align with products aimed at promoting well-being, such as skincare or culinary tools. In popular culture, the name might be referenced in literature or media, contributing to its recognition and appeal in a modern context.
      Based on our records...
      This is the most common surname, spouse name and child name associated with Tena.
      Johnson

      is the most common surname for Tena.

      John

      is the most common spouse name for Tena.

      John

      is the most common child name for Tena.

      Start your curiosity engines.

      Ready to learn more about your own family? Here are two ways to begin.
      Free Trial
      Order Ancestry
      did_you_know_bar
      Based on our records...
      Did you know?
      1894 is when there were the most people born with the first name Tena.

      We'll guide you through the process of building and growing your tree

      Explore the origins of another name.