Taua

Taua is a term used in several Pacific languages, most notably in Māori and other Polynesian languages, with multiple related uses in culture and language. In linguistic and historical contexts, taua commonly denotes a war party or raid. It refers to an organized group mobilized for combat or raiding, and it appears in historical accounts, songs, and literature describing warfare practices in pre-colonial and early colonial periods. The concept of taua is tied to broader themes of warfare, solidarity, and ceremony within those traditions, and it is sometimes described alongside accompanying chants, weapons, and march formations.

Beyond its military sense, taua also functions as a personal name in some Pacific communities. As a given name, it may carry connotations of strength, bravery, or warrior heritage. In addition to being used as a first name, the term can appear in place names, family names, or diaspora contexts where Polynesian linguistic influence has spread.

Orthography and usage can vary by language and dialect. In English-language texts, diacritical marks may be omitted, and the word may appear in plural or combined forms depending on the grammar of the surrounding language. Because taua spans different languages and cultural contexts, its precise meaning can shift with regional usage and historical period.

See also: related Polynesian terms for warfare and names, and notes on cross-cultural transcription of Pacific languages.