To dream; also refers to a Yosemite valley leader.
Tenaya is primarily associated with Chief Tenaya, the leader of the Ahwahnechee people in Yosemite Valley during the 19th century. While often cited as meaning 'to dream' in some indigenous contexts, its most prominent legacy is tied to the majestic Tenaya Lake and Tenaya Canyon in California. It is a place-name choice that feels deeply rooted in the American West.
Less common today
Tenaya isn't in the latest US Top 1000. It last peaked at #3,777 in 2000.
US births per 5-year period, 1990–present (SSA data).
Leader of the Ahwahnechee people of Yosemite
