Apply this search to the user-submitted names, the letters in the pattern are compared to the letters in the name, search for an exact phrase by surrounding it with double quotes, this field understands simple boolean logic, force a term to be included by preceding it with a, force a term to be excluded by preceding it with a, sounds can only be searched in names that have been assigned pronunciations, syllables can only be counted in names that have been assigned pronunciations, names without pronunciations are excluded from results, the "relationship" is how the name relates to its parent name. It can be used for both boys and girls. It is also a display of honor for the eze or king in some parts of Igboland. Olantungi (Yoruba origin) meaning "wealth wakes again". Each surname has its own peculiar significance and purpose. 45. Achebe is an invocation of a deity, which means the Goddess protects. 51. Answer (1 of 4): Most of these surnames are not Hispanic at all, but Lusophone (Portuguese). Bankole -Widely used among the Yoruba families, it means help build our house or build my house for me. Abebe: The genesis of this Ethiopian name is Amharic, and it means 'flower' or 'blossom'. Elya (Ethiopian origin) meaning my God is Yahweh. You will find the place of origin and the meaning of each name in this list too. Udu means a clay pot to fill water, and Ike means strength. Many common South African last names make references to natural occurrences. Yusuf The strength, power, influence and devotion. Over several hundred years, borders have been made, changed and broken, making family history difficult to trace. 65. Rothschild. Discover the ethnic origin and meaning of last names. Pretorius Southern African, Afrikaans.
120 Most Popular African Last Names Or Surnames - MomJunction 29. It is suitable for boys. What a wonderful name; Maduabuchi Onwuachimba (Igbo-Nigeria). Whilst this is a list of last names, many of the last names on this list have also been used as first names too. 4. 30. Ahishakiye (Rwandan origin) meaning "whenever God wants". 11. BR, USA, I am responding to Vince Gaineys point Why are African Christians so ashamed of their Christian names in comparison to Muslims who have pride in their Arabic Islamic names. I think Vince is confusing European with Christian. 77. Meghnagi (Libyan origin) could refer to zion. From Latin praetor meaning "leader". It is a name that compliments a person, and it means one who does well. Acheampong (Ashanti origin) this last names means "destined for greatness," found among the Ashanti people of Ghana. It is considered a male name. Amel (North African origin) means hope. The surname acknowledges the helpfulness or resourcefulness of a person. Anyone using the information provided by Kidadl does so at their own risk and we can not accept liability if things go wrong. It is suitable for boys and girls. Many of the population here practice Islam, hence there are a lot of names that originate from the Arabic language too. 67. Grigahcine (Kabyle origin) this last name is most widely found in Algeria. Chibuzo is an African last name that means God give me directions. Buhle is a common surname among people who's identity is attached to the Xhosa clan. The surname with Yoruba origin means god has rewarded me for my sufferings. The following two tabs change content below. Fundamental All languages Afrikaans Terms by semantic function Names Surnames. Rooted in the Tiv language, Gowon means the rainmaker. Mambwe (Zambian origin) meaning "the Lord is good". The research found that in Africa, most surnames are connected to geographic origin, occupation, lineage or personal characteristics.One surname-type unique to the continent is the praise-name, which expresses character traits or other admirable attributes. Though hypodescent started out as a tool . Motaung meaning "lions". The name can be translated as fullness of power. 88. Biko (Bantu origin) meaning 'a person of the people". 46. Hlengiwe (South African origin) means redeemed. You cant find them anywhere else. How big and representative is the sample. What I like about this name is it reflects which tribal group of South Africa I come from.
Southern African Surnames - Behind the Name It means sturdy or mighty tree. Albert Luthuli was an African Nobel Peace Prize winner, teacher, and anti-apartheid activist. It means one who does good to others. Luthuli (Zulu origin) meaning "the month of dust". Mulder. Meaning: Lion., 3. Asa directly translates to shield, so Alasa means lord or owner of the shield. Feel free to also check out the history of these surnames as well to help you learn a little bit more about your background.
79. Kidadl has lots of great names articles to inspire you. 26. Most Popular African Last Names Or Surnames. 84. Your privacy is important to us. Osei meaning "royalty". Meaning: Child that keeps coming or reincarnation., 5. It is suitable for both boys and girls. Okusanya (Yoruba origin) meaning "God has rewarded me". 54. Abara is a common last name in the Igbo community. Chrizanne (South African origin) from the Afrikaans tribe, this is a combination of Christine and Anne. It is usually given to boys. 56. Obi -A mainstream name among the Igbo surnames in Nigeria, Obi means 'heart'. Chimwemwe (Malawi origin) means pleasure or joy. Sarpong It has its origin in the Ashanti or Asante group. Realistically, there is no better description of diversity than with the African people and their last names. It is usually given to boys. One of such names is a Yoruba surname Falade, which means god of divination has intermingled with royalty. Having its roots in Yoruba, the name means my wealth is moving forward or my wealth is the future, and it is mostly given to boys. It has its origin in the Tiv language, and means fathers love. Masondo (Zulu origin) meaning "wheels". De Beer is a Dutch and Afrikaans surname, meaning "the bear". 70. Abara Origin: West African (Igbo). hausas are the most populous group in nigeria. But by the grace of God, my first and middle names are not only African but reflect the ethnic origin of where I know my maternal ancestors come from, the Mandinka people. It means the compound remains strong in Igbo language. If you want your babys name to be promising, then, this is the perfect name to choose. As an Amazon Associate, Kidadl earns from qualifying purchases. The Akan name is widely used among the girls. If you liked our suggestions for African Last Names then why not take a look at Scottish last names, or for more last names take a look at these Croatian surnames. Igwe Among the Igbo groups, Igwe means heaven, which is considered the highest realm of existence. Her love for content creation made her pivot her career from science to writing. 44. Subscribe for virtual tools, STEM-inspired play, creative tips and more. 85. It means the river goddess has come home. For more parenting tips and tricks, find us on Pinterest: Are you a writer, expert, or influencer? Some practice various tribal religions, others Islam or Christianity. The two civil sanctions that are available to Mrs Tau to enforce the maintenance order in her and the boys ' favour in the specific circumstances of this case are; I.A warrant (writ) of execution against the maintenance debtor ' s property. It is usually given to boys. Examples are Afrikaans, Xhosa, Zulu, Ndebele, and Tswana to name a few. 61. This name is primarily masculine. Meaning: The Chosen One., 58. Odili is a surname that is common among many people in the Zulu community. Many African last names reference wealth and the aristocracy. Mangosuthu Buthelezi was an African tribal leader and one of the founders of the IFP (Inkatha Freedom Party). It is common both as a surname and a nickname. Its other variants are Wonai and Vonai. For example if you were born on a Monday and named Kojo or Kodjo for a boy or Adjo for a girl, you would be taken as a zealous man or woman because Monday is the first day of work after the weekend, and if you were born on a Wednesday and named Kokou for a boy or Akwa for a girl, you were taken as a half-lazy person because people usually work or go to school for just the first half of the day -from 7 to 12- and use the other half as leisure time, and if you were born on a Sunday and named Kossi for a boy or Kossiwa for a girl, you were taken as the child of God, the pure, pretty child because people dress up pretty to worship God at the mass on Sunday. Most Popular African Last Names Or Surnames, Infographic: Top African Surnames Rich In History And Culture. We strive to recommend the very best things that are suggested by our community and are things we would do ourselves - our aim is to be the trusted friend to parents. Chidubem (Igbo origin) meaning "guided by God". Akosua Adoma Owusu is an African-American producer and filmmaker focused on creating content that depicts the collision of different identities. This name has been brought to the big screen all over the world through a fictional character Okoye in a cultural phenomenon, the Black Panther movie. Derefaka Gogo, Canada, In Most West African countries (Togo, Benin, Ghana, Cote dIvoire), the majority of Southern people name their children based on their day of birth. Get high-quality PDF version by clicking below. Chidubem is one of the many surnames that calls for a higher power. Mwanajuma (Swahili origin) meaning "born on Friday". It implies that a baby will be the first of many children for couples who have had difficulty in conceiving. Adby Origin: Nigerian (Yoruba). The infographic below includes some popular ones from the African continent and of African descent. Kimathi (Kenyan origin) meaning "earnest provider". This surname is possibly derived from the Sonink word tr, which means elephant. These beautiful South African names derive from the country's rich history and are influenced by its many languages and traditional inhabitants. It means one who is born during the festival or war. FamilyEducation does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. 77. Fuli (Swahili origin) means very fast. Oyekan (Shona origin) meaning "we are many". Gowon (Tiv origin) meaning "the rainmaker".
Surname List - British 1820 Settlers to South Africa If you are looking for African surnames for your kid, you are at the right place. Negga (Ethiopian origin) means "the night has passed". 1. Igwe (Igbo origin) meaning "heaven". It means one who does good to others. Coetzee Afrikaans. 24. Okoye -It is a conventional surname across various African people and means one who is born on orie market day. Bongani (South African origin) means thankful or grateful in Zulu. 71. Benhaim (Judoe origin) means son of life. It is now common in South Africa. We have listed 100 surnames of African origin in this article. The name originates from Bemba and it means origin. 64. South African (Anglicized, Archaic, Expatriate), Apply this search to the main name collection, the letters in the pattern are compared to the letters in the name, search for an exact phrase by surrounding it with double quotes, this field understands simple boolean logic, force a term to be included by preceding it with a, force a term to be excluded by preceding it with a, sounds can only be searched in names that have been assigned pronunciations, syllables can only be counted in names that have been assigned pronunciations, names without pronunciations are excluded from results. Chalo (Zambian origin) means battle. For more parenting tips and tricks, find us on Pinterest: Are you a writer, expert, or influencer? South african last names starting with R The term 'Goddesses' can be found among many common African names. Copyright 2011 - 2023 MomJunction Private Limited. "Bruyn" is an archaic spelling of "bruin", meaning "brown". 21. 96. Meaning: Derives from the name Tekle Haymanot, an Ethiopian monk and saint. Abbas Origin: An Arabic name found throughout Algeria. Falade Several African names and surnames, when translated, often make full sentences. Outside work, her interests include music, movies, travel, philanthropy, writing her blog, and reading. 96. 70. Our recommended activities are based on age but these are a guide. My parents wanting to embue me with an African name, unknowingly gave me a first and middle name that reflects part of my ethnic origin It originates in Igbo and means child of the supreme God. Mensah (Akan origin) means "third child," found among the people of Ghana. We recognise that not all activities and ideas are appropriate and suitable for all children and families or in all circumstances. Radebe (Zulu origin) meaning "big tree". 82. Quansah (Ghanaian origin) meaning "God is watching". 58. Abara (Igbo origin) meaning "spirit". Yvonne Chaka Chaka is an acclaimed South African entrepreneur, singer, humanitarian and actress, and has also been given the title 'Princess of Africa' by her fans. 3. Nnadi (Igbo origin) meaning "my father lives". Kidadl provides inspiration to entertain and educate your children. It is generally considered to be a masculine name. This last name originates from the Igbo group. Elmi (Somali origin) means knowledge. It means mine is worthy of thanks or gratitude, and is suitable for both boys and girls. 52. This category has the following 9 subcategories, out of 9 total. It is mostly given to boys due to its masculine connotation. 16. Chizimu Origin: Malawian (Lambya). ywl -It means the river goddess has come home. 3. Abuchi, USA, I have a western surname, presumably that of the slavemaster of my forebears. Olatunji Usually used as a given name and the last name, Olatunji means wealth awakes again. Meaning: 10th-born child. It is considered to be primarily male. It is suitable for both boys and girls. This name is also predominantly given to boys. With a Master of Arts in English, she has worked as a private tutor and, in the past few years, has moved into content writing for companies such as Writer's Zone. Kimathi Origin: Kenyan. Meaning: When they plan.. Kanye -Popularised by celebrity rapper Kanye West, the Igbo name Kanye means lets give or to give honor or tribute. Apply this search to the user-submitted names. Abebe Origin: Ethiopian. 77. 74. Family Education is part of the Sandbox Learning family of educational reference sites for parents, teachers, and students. Ghanas founding father Kwame Nkrumah chose to name his two sons after fellow African leaders.
42 Popular African Last Names Rich In Culture And History - Scary Mommy Negga/Nega Origin: Ethiopian. It is both a surname and given name of Yoruba origin, which means the crown gained advancement. Selassie -Generally given to boys, it has its origin in the Amharic language, and means trinity. Dawit (Amharic origin) means beloved. Abioye (Nigerian origin) means "born into royalty," from the Yoruba ethnic group. 32. Ladipo (Nigerian origin) meaning "wealth and prosperity," peculiar to the Yoruba people. Mazigh (Arabic origin) means free man. 88. Over nine year more. My name is meaningful (in your Gods name Im happy is the direct translation of my first and last names taken together). Gebreyes (Ethiopian origin) means servant of. Ihejirika -It is an Igbo surname and nickname, which conveys pride. 48. There are 54 countries, between 900 and 1,500 languages, and several thousand ethnic groups in Africa, according to Britannica. Van Graan. Okoro Origin: Nigerian (Urhobo). Each name is unique and holds an ancestral meaning, symbolizing the origin and history. This name is often given to boys. Kikelomo is one of the most conventional names that can be found among African languages. Meaning: He came in a joyful time or the king/crown/royalty meets joy., 11. Maybe you have also been intrigued by these African surnames; below we give you a list of some wonderful surnames borne by Africans. 45. Tambo meaning "rope". Find your South African last name, meaning, and origins. Your use of the site indicates your agreement to be bound by our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. Abara (Igbo origin) meaning "spirit". Toure -This surname is possibly derived from the Sonink word tr, which means elephant. Afumba Origin: Zambian (Lozi). I just feel happy to say that this programme of conscientization is excellent. Acheampong (Ashanti origin) this last names means "destined for greatness," found among the Ashanti people of Ghana. 73. One of the most famous people to have this name is Chinua Achebe, considered the most influential African writer who won the Man Booker International Prize in 2007. Good question! 86. 83. - wife of Ralph Patrick Murray (1): 3. 81. Forebears knows about 821,426 unique surnames in South Africa and there are 66 people per name. It means a good runner. 82. Mmeriemikwu (Igbo origin) meaning "to be better.". 68. West Nkosi was a South African songwriter and music producer. 2. It is usually given to boys. 91. Ndiaye (Senegal origin) meaning "descendant of the lion clan". http://www.expressos. Widely used among the Yoruba families, it means help build our house or build my house for me. Elmalik (Arabic origin) means the King, often found in the countries of northern Africa. Some of these names can also be found in other parts of Africa, but are more commonly found amongst people in northern Africa. 1. 48. 90. Chisomo (Malawi origin) means grace. Third item on the film. Imari is a variant of the African name Imani, meaning loyal.. Afia (Akan origin) meaning "born on a Friday," commonly found in Ghana and the Ivory Coast. Igbinedion It has its origins in the Benin culture and means seeking refuge in the elders protection. This name is also predominantly given to boys. Katlego (Tswana origin) means success. Agwuegbo (Nigerian origin) means "the hardship is over," found among the Igbo people. Many Swahili last names pay homage to the day or time that a person was born. 32. Kidadl is independent and to make our service free to you the reader we are supported by advertising. Many African last names reference wealth and the aristocracy.
10 of the most common surnames in the Western Cape - Kfm 94.5 Omenma It is a nickname which also functions as the last name. Surnames serve as a tool to identify our ancestry. Africas different groups and tribes represent its cultural diversity and rich tradition. 33. They speak Afrikaans and generally worship in Reformed Christian churches, but exhibit discernible non-European ancestry, in particular African ancestry. 57. Sefako meaning "hail". 25. Conteh (Sierra Leone origin) meaning "great eagle". 27. (Both proud and amused!). Tutu (Subiya origin) meaning "wealth". 14. 41. It means a good runner. It is among the most common African last names. 53. 13. 22. My African name reflects my personality I hate fights and arguments ; I am a peaceful person. 30. Otueome The rare surname means he says and does as he said he would do, and is considered to be a masculine name. 8. 50. Amani (Ethiopian origin) means faith. Eze (Igbo origin) meaning "king". The Igbo people do not use family names. 5. Usually earned, Agrinya means warrior in the Yala language. Ech (North African origin) meaning edge or corner. Its variant is Chike, which means Gods power. We strive to recommend the very best things that are suggested by our community and are things we would do ourselves - our aim is to be the trusted friend to parents. Wairimu Kuria, Kenyan in US, African names comes with great pride and power. Another unisex name, Okoro means child of the freeborn man, or man in Urhobo. South African names are derived from a variety of African dialects and regional languages. 75. Orji Another conventional name that praises physical strength is Orji. Haggar (North African origin) means flight. 92. Zammit (Tunisian origin) means servant of. 55. 74. 38. Banchiamalck Dessalegn, Ethiopian in U.S. My name Derefaka figuratively means: Continuing the heritage of our fathers. An appreciative masculine name that embraces a new arrival with positivity, it means the king/crown/royalty filled the house. Archi Gumede was a prominent African politician, lawyer and human rights activist. This name from the Igbo tribes means my God is alive or my father lives. For example: Sefu "sword" and Tau "lion" (masculine) and Marjani "coral" and Ife "love" (feminine). Ndaba meaning "news". In the 1700s some Portuguese sailors were s. It also means the next to be crowned among the Yoruba speaking groups. Behind the Name: Tswana Given Names. 40. 17. Meaning: One who possesses a clever head. 68. We also also Afrikaan. The native African surnames and last names are unique, reflective, and meaningful. Tshabalal (Zulu origin) meaning "shooting star". It originates from the Swahili culture and means delight or happiness. 68. 66. 5. This list contains Ethiopian last names, Sudanese last names and many more. Also: no one can dictate my life, nor my destiny, strong to be God to my destiny and my self. It also means once or one time in the Nguni languages such as Ndebele, Xhosa, and Zulu. Temitope It means mine is worthy of thanks or gratitude, and is suitable for both boys and girls. Among the citizens of Senegal, Ndiaye is a ferocious surname as well as a given name. Afumba (Lozi origin) meaning "when they plan". Gowon Rooted in the Tiv language, Gowon means the rainmaker.
Popular South African names you should know - Life From A Bag Nkrumah is not alone in fostering the identity of Africanism the late President Mobutu Sese Seko dropped his own Christian name and even renamed his country the then Belgian Congo which became Zaire. Ele It is common both as a surname and a nickname. There we go! But 32 years later the late Laurent Kabila kicked Mobutu out, and re-baptised the country the Democratic Republic of Congo. 98. Amaechi (Igbo origin) meaning "who knows tomorrow". Fundamental All languages Afrikaans Terms by semantic function Names Surnames. It means one who has many people to call for help, and is considered typically male. Surnames like Abimbola that reference wealth and prosperity are common in South Africa. It has its roots in Yoruba and it means a lot of wealth. 99. 47. 84. I maintain the list. 72. Discover the ethnic origin and meaning of last names. Ndiaye Among the citizens of Senegal, Ndiaye is a ferocious surname as well as a given name. 56.
A Complete List of African Last Names + Meanings Etienam Having its roots in Ibibio, the surname or nickname Etienam means a doer of good or benevolent. Umburter (Tiv origin) meaning "remember the father". Their ancestors arrived in South Africa through three different routes: 1. As Africa is made up of 54 countries (making it the second-largest continent in the world), its naming systems are diverse. Brought to South Africa by settlers of French decent some time in the past 300 years. It is mostly given to girls. Die Afrikaner-familienaamboek : sketse en besonderhede omtrent die voorgeslagte van bekende Afrikanerfamilies An alphabetical list of South African surnames and early genealogy connected therewith. 36. African Surnames: If theres ever a place or people you cant overlook, its the Africans. Several African names and surnames, when translated, often make full sentences. So Ndubueze means that life is king to live is to be a king.
Beautiful South African Names and What They Mean - Culture Trip 71. A little under 10% of South Africa's population are Cape Coloureds. And a Nigerian friend has told me that many Ibo names are equivalent compounds of the divines name and some desirable relationship. It is usually given to boys. Babangida -Among the Hausa tribes of Nigeria, Babangida means the master of the house. Chidiozie is a long-established surname in many African communities. Among the Igbo groups, Igwe means heaven, which is considered the highest realm of existence. When you buy through the links on our site we may earn a commission. It is a common given name to male children, which means firstborn son in Egyptian. Another surname of Yoruba origin, Adebowale means return of the crown. Toure (Soninke origin) meaning "elephant". 61. Popular among the female populace of Nigeria, it is an inspirational name which means she opens the way. Having its origin in Yoruba, Awolowo means the oracle has dignity. 67. 21. It is usually given to boys. Much like Scotland, most last names can date back to a particular patriarch within the tribe that which the name was based. There is so much authenticity with their naming practices. Meaning: Unknown. 23. 3. Alioune (Senegalis origin) meaning "sublime" or "lofty". Nenge -This unusual surname means see in Tiv. We mention the African last names with their meanings and origins to help you learn about their rich history. It means descendant of the lion clan, and is suitable for both genders. Preparations for the long-awaited Cape Town E-Prix are on track for next Saturday 25 November when the event kicks off on the streets of the Green Point Precinct. Masoja Msiza is a South African artist known for appearing in the hit telenovela 'Uzalo'. Amahle (Zulu origin) means the beautiful ones. Many last names in South Africa make references to royalty. Uduike (Igbo origin) meaning "full of power". 65. This list may not reflect recent changes. If you have a South African last name, you may find it in one of the categories below. 90. You contact them to see if you share . Bonolo (South African origin) means ease in the Sotho language. 87. 33. Molungu (Bantu origin) meaning "God". Agu (Nigerian origin) means "tiger" and is a popular Igbo name. 78. Achebe (Nigerian origin) meaning "the goddess protects," from the Igbo people of Nigeria.
55. 52. 71. Talia (Arabic origin) means lamb or dew of God. The name is an invocation to Ijebu, the god of wealth. Do you know what region or tribe that that would be from? Well send you tons of inspiration to help you find a hidden gem in your local area or plan a big day out. We will always aim to give you accurate information at the date of publication - however, information does change, so its important you do your own research, double-check and make the decision that is right for your family. Meziane is a variation. 53. Its other variants are Orjea, Orjee, Orjey, Orjie, and Orjy. Its other variants are Orjea, Orjee, Orjey, Orjie, and Orjy. There are also hundreds of languages spoken on the continent, providing endless interesting meanings of each last name. You e-mail me the surnames you are interested in, and I send you the e-mail address(es) of the person(s) who are researching these surnames for their own family history. For example: Sefu sword and Tau lion (masculine) and Marjani coral and Ife love (feminine). These countries have their own beautiful languages, resulting in a range of different names that are unique to this region.
Who are the Cape Coloureds of South Africa? | Discover Magazine Sometimes also a given name for boys. Abiodun Origin: Yoruba. Taleb A devoted student or a seeker of knowledge, 92. In abreviation ABUCHI for my Western folks, short and simple isnt it. Kikelomo (Yoruba origin) meaning "to be cherished". 53. A name that acknowledges a divine concession is Chukwunyelu, which means God gives in Igbo. Ganizani (Botswanan origin) means think in Chewa. Meaning: Earnest provider.. It means one who is invulnerable to dark magic. This name is mostly given to sons by the hopeful family. It is both a surname and a given name, which means I should give praise. Please note: prices are correct and items are available at the time the article was published. 51. Dive into this post for some amazing and interesting African surnames. 26. What we suggest is selected independently by the Kidadl team. 6. Ray Phiri was a Malawian immigrant who went on to become one of South Africa's most renowned Jazz musicians. Okoro (Igbo origin) meaning "greatness". 25. Meaning: The night has passed.. 26. 17. 83. It means supreme or a great warrior and is usually given to boys. Igwe is an extremely popular surname used by various religious subsects. Let us know your favorites in the comment section.