African names have beautiful meanings unique to the languages spoken on the continent. They are becoming more and more popular over the years.
Due to the nature of the diverse African peoples, many languages contribute to this list.
After all, the continent has a rich culture with many tribes spread across its 50 countries.
They bring a plethora of diverse names.
Some make a regular appearance, such as the name Kofi, given to baby boy’s born on a Friday in Ghana!
We bring you the common and the rare, the strong and the meaningful, for both your warriors and princesses.
Contents
Strong Names
Strong Male
Strong Female
Perfect Baby Names
Baby Boy
Baby Girl
Regal Names
Kings
Queens
African-American Names
Boys
Girls
Names That Mean Warrior
For Men
For Women
Egyptian Names
For Boys
For Girls
Strong African Baby Names
Do you want your child’s name to inspire steadfastness and an underlying strength?
Look no further!
Here are a handful of solid African names for your little one that mean strong.
Male Names
Akpan
This name with Ibibio origins (a people of South-Eastern Nigeria) means “firstborn son.”
Since the first son was the heir in many cultures, Akpan is a responsible son who looks after his family.
Pronounce the name ekpun.
Chibuike
This name means “God is strength.”
Africa has a variety of meaningful gods. If you are religious, this is an excellent choice for your son.
The Nigerian footballer John Chibuike is a notable namesake.
Dejen
It is an Amharic name, the official language of Ethiopia. Its meaning is “foundation” or “support.”
The name Dejen inspires strength and confidence.
In Ethiopia, there is also a district named Dejen known for its many restaurants.
Gudina
It is a name with Oromo origins, an ethnic group in Ethiopia. It means “growth” or “advancement.” Names influence character, so this is perfect for your child.
A notable person with the name was the theologian Gudina Tumsa.
Female Names
Ada
A West African name, Ada, means “firstborn daughter.”
As the first son becomes the pillar of the house, so the first daughter is a source of comfort and strength.
Chimamanda
This Nigerian name means “my God will not fail me.” It is a powerful sentiment to have, enough to keep you going in hard times.
The name came to the mass media through Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, the Nigerian writer and historian, experiencing a significant popularity boost.
Oluchi
Another option with religious connotations, the name means “work of God.”
It is the perfect choice for the apple of your eye.
What is more impressive than a creation of the divine?!
Sade
Pronounced shar-day, a name with a special meaning; “honor bestows a crown.”
Those familiar with the British music scene through the 80s and 90s will know of the singer Sade Adu.
Perfect Baby Names
With so many African names, you have a choice of meanings, from straightforward to unique.
Here is a list of baby names with meanings and pronunciations to make your choice easier.
African Baby Boy Names
Amare
Pronounced am-aar-ay. A popular choice for boys in Africa, it means “handsome.” Isn’t it the perfect choice for your adorable little one?
Bakari
Spoken as you read it, ba-car-ee, this name is perfect if you have high hopes for your child.
Popular all over the continent, this Swahili name means “one with great promise.”
He’ll indeed have a bright future ahead of him!
Mwenye
This East African name ensures your child has an air of authority surrounding him when he grows up.
The name means “owner” or “lord.”
Omari
If you want a gentler name for a quiet child, then Omari, meaning “flourishing,” is suitable.
It stems from Swahili and implies growth and prosperity.
Siyabonga
This name was the sixth most popular name for boys in South Africa in 2015, and we can understand why.
The name Siyabonga means “thanks” or “thank you,” so you give appreciation every time you say your son’s name.
It was shared by some notable people. Amongst them is cricketer Siyabonga Booi and politician Siyabonga Cwele.
African Baby Girl Names
Abagbe
A name with one of the most beautiful meanings means “we begged to have this one to lift” or “this child was desired.”
It is a beautiful sentiment and explains a parent’s feelings better than any other name.
Amahle
One of the most famous names in South Africa, this name has a meaning as pretty as its bearer.
Pronounced ama-hle (with a guttural hiss on the h), this Zulu name means “the beautiful one.”
Barika
The female counterpart of Bakari means “successful” or “blooming.”
If you’re hoping for your daughter to be a girl boss when she grows up, this is the name!
Dziko
Pronounced zee-ko, it encompasses all the love you have for your little girl in one word – “the world.”
Kokumo
This beautiful girl’s name means “this one will not die,” a sentiment all parents can relate to, wishing their child a long and healthy life.
Regal Names from Africa
Who doesn’t want a majestic and regal name for their child?
There is a satisfaction in naming your little one after a great ruler of the people.
Names of African Kings
Osei
The name means “noble” or “honorable,” and the king of Ashanti was deserving of his namesake.
Osei is a popular name in Africa.
Ramesses
While the name might not mean anything significant to you, being “born of Ra” is desirable.
The mighty Egyptian Sun god, pharaoh Ramesses the Great, is definitely a figure for your son to embody.
Shaka
Pronounced shah-ka, Shaka was the founder of the Zulu kingdom.
As a deadly warrior and king of a warring people, he made marked advancements in military tactics.
Tenkamenin
He was a great king beloved by his people, known for listening to their problems.
The name is thought to translate to “King of Ghana.”
Imhotep
While not actually a king, he was a genius of his time, thought to be the architect of Djoser’s step pyramid.
This name means “one who comes in peace.”
African Queen Names
Gwamile
While not the proper name, it was a middle given to the most prominent queen in Swaziland’s history.
Labotsibeni Gwamile Mdluli – known for her wisdom as a ruler.
It means “indomitable one.”
Muhumuza
She was a queen from Tanzanian, Ugandan, and Rwandan history whose name means “one who brings peace.”
This name suits a child who may grow up to be gentle and elegant.
Nefertiti
One of the most recognizable names, she was an Egyptian queen whose name meant “the beautiful one has come.”
Nzingha
It means “beloved person who came from the river.”
The name of a legendary ruler called the “Warrior Queen of Matamba,” it is perfect for a powerful soul.
She spent 37 years as a ruler and resisted several attempts by the Portuguese to invade.
Taitu
The name of the formidable Ethiopian empress means “the Sun.”
She was an important political figure who held off attempts by Italians to invade her nation.
African-American
Native African names are beautiful; there is no denying that.
Those in America may prefer names that represent their home and heritage.
So, here is a list of African-American names for your baby.
Boy Names
Darius
A great name of Arabic origins, it means “possessing goodness.”
A beautiful wish for your child.
Hakeem
Another name with Arabic origins popular among African-American boys is “wise.”
Jamal
Many African-American names tend to have Hebrew or Arabic origins, with Jamal having the latter.
It means “beauty” or “handsome,” so it is a perfect name for your gorgeous boy.
Justus
This firm name means “justice,” so if you wish for an upholder of fairness and equality, consider this one.
Names hold power, after all.
Zion
It has become less common in recent years but is popular nonetheless.
A Biblical name and the citadel at the center of Juraselum.
Girl Names
Aaliyah
One of the most popular African-American names for girls, meaning “exalted, sublime, noble.”
Since ladies of high standing used it, the name is perfect for your little princess.
Imani
It has Swahili and Arabic origins and means “faith.”
It implies steadfastness and strength and is every elegant name for your child.
Jasmine
With Persian and Arabic origins, it is perfect for a delicate lady as it means “flower” and is one!
Lenora
This name would suit a bright and delightful girl, meaning “light.” It is a rarer name that exudes grace.
Mikayla
The name has Biblical origins and is the female version of Mikhail, meaning “gift from God.”
The name has several spelling variations, including Michaela, Mikaella, and Mikaela.
African Names that Mean Warrior
Coming to our last category for today, let’s focus on fierce names meaning warrior.
They imply great strength and a fighting spirit for your children.
For Men
Abrafo
With African-Ghanian origins, it is a name that means “warrior.”
Bomani
Another name of African origin means “strong soldier” – a popular warrior name in tribes.
Kamau
It means “quiet warrior.”
The name has a generally African and Kikuyu (a region of Kenya) origin.
Khalfani
It is a very regal name and means “destined to rule” and sounds princely when spoken aloud.
Nassor
While this is a warrior’s name, it is also a lovely name for parents hoping for success for their children.
Its literal meaning is “victorious.”
For Women
Behati
A name that many might recognize because of the Namibian model Behati Prinsloo.
It means “warrior,” “strong,” or “soldier.”
While there are few names for girls meaning warrior, Behati is most popular due to the model’s fame.
Jabari
This name is usually unisex, meaning that both boys and girls can wear it with pride.
Having Swahili origin, it means “brave,” “powerful one,” or “leader.”
Bless them with this name, and your baby will be at the helm of all the group projects in school!
Assaggi
Pronounced aahs-eg-gi, it is a name for warrior women meaning “woman of strength.”
It is neither familiar nor famous but has sublime meaning if you hope your daughter will be an independent woman.
Mkali
This name for a feisty lady means “strong” or “fierce,” and has Swahili origins.
Say the name with a slight /m/ sound and a drawn-out Kaa-li rather than the shorter American name Callie.
Naja
This is an acquired taste, as the name of African origins means “one who is indifferent to pleasure or pain.”
The name is pronounced nae-ja and sounds very sweet.
The Most Popular Egyptian Names and Their Meanings
Choosing a name can be an overwhelming process but things can get much easier if you have many ideas in front of you to get inspired from.
That is exactly what we wanted to do and here are the most popular exhibition names and their meanings so that you can choose the one you feel connected with the most.
Egyptian Boy Names
Ramses
This one is a beautiful boy name and is pronounced %lsqb;RAM-zees]. It is considered one of the most popular Egyptian names and the meaning of it is “begotten by Ra, God of the sun.”
It gives off a powerful vibe and can be a great option in your list of eligible names.
Horus
Horus was originally one of the great titles for an Egyptian Pharaoh. Moreover, it is also one of the most ancient known names in the land of Egypt.
Khalid
You have probably heard this name; it’s a common one but it doesn’t mean that it is anything less than beautiful.
The meaning of Khalid is “eternal” or “something which lasts forever.”
There are different alternatives and variations you can go for like Khaled, Khaleed, etc. This name also has a female version, Khalida.
Nabil
If you are looking for more ideas for Egyptian names, Nabil is a great option because it’s a little uncommon and you can also play around with different variations like Nebil, Nabeel, and so on. The meaning of this name is very close to how it sounds in English, “noble.”
Ramzan
A name with an Egyptian origin for your baby boy, Ramzan is closely related to another name from our list, Ramses. It can be translated to “the sun god.”
Tariq
The name Tariq has an Egyptian and Arabic origin and has a few variations which you can choose according to your preference including Tarik, Tarick, Tarek, and so on.
This name means someone who knocks at the door or the morning star.
In the earlier times, this name was not very popular but it is slowly catching up.
Zahur
Another beautiful name having Arabic and Egyptian origin, it can also be spelled as Zahir. Even though Zahur isn’t a very popular name, the alternative Zahir somewhat is.
The meanings of the name are “flower, blossom, eminent.”
Cairo
Apart from being a great Egyptian name for a boy, it is also known as the capital of Egypt and the meaning behind the actual word is “victorious.”
Ahmed
This name is of Arabic origin and is an alternative to Ahmad, the meaning of which is “more commendable.”
The name has been derived from the word hamida, the meaning of which is “to praise.”
Ashraf
Another great boy name having Egyptian and Arabic origin, Ashraf can also be spelled as Achraf, Achref, etc.
The meaning of the name is to be noble and someone who is honorable. This name first became popular around 1988 and has been commonly used since then.
Hossam
For anyone who is looking for Egyptian names for boys which are unique yet beautiful, Hossam is a great option.
You can also go for alternative spellings and variations like Houssam, Hosam, Hussam, and so on. The meaning of this name is “sword of justice.”
Bahman
Even though this name has its roots in Persian culture, later on, it gained popularity in Egypt as well. Bahman is also the name of the 11th month in the Iranian calendar and the meaning behind this name is “well spirited.”
Yahya
This is a beautiful name for your baby boy and it’s about understanding that your child is a blessing from God and you are acknowledging it from the bottom of your heart. The meaning of this word is “given by God.”
Khepri
This name is derived from the Egyptian God of movement of the Sun. The actual meaning of the name is “to create.” The bearer of this name will get the opportunity to create wonderful things in their life.
Darius
Derived from Persian and Egyptian culture, Darius has alternatives like Dario and Darijus. It is also the name of a Pharaoh and the meaning of the word is someone who is rich and holds his firm to good.
Today, this name is being used in many parts of the world and it began to grow in popularity in the United States in 1994.
Egyptian Girl Names
Asenath
This one is typically a name for a girl and is one of the most extremely popular Egyptian names. The meaning of the name is that “she belongs to her father”. Isn’t it absolutely adorable?
Layla
Another beautiful girl name, this one has Egyptian and Arabic origin. You can play around with alternative variations like Lilah, Lela, Lilah, and so on.
The meaning of this particular name is ‘night’. Back in 1993, this name was one of the most popular and it has remained so since then.
Cleopatra
When we look for the most beautiful Egyptian girl names, we cannot miss out on this one!
Cleopatra was one of the most well-known female rulers in history and her name was spread far and wide due to her beauty and intellect.
If you want inspiration for Egyptian queen names, this one is a great choice.
Aya
This name is typically used for girls and has an Egyptian and Arabic origin. You can also spell it as “Ayah” as an alternative and the meaning behind this name is “wonderful,” “amazing,” and “bird.”
A fun fact about this name is that Aya is also a very popular name for girls in Japan and the meaning of the name is “beautiful, colorful” there.
Nubia
Even though this particular Egyptian name is not very common today, it is still a great choice for your baby girl. It is derived from ancient Egypt and the meaning of this name is ‘gold’ – a very beautiful way to show your daughter how much she is treasured.
Heba
If you have been researching Egyptian names for your baby girl, you might have come across this one because it is one of the most popular ones in Egypt and truly, it will be perfect for your little bundle of cuteness as this name means ‘gift’.
Menna
This name is becoming increasingly popular with time and has an Arabic and Egyptian origin. You can also go with another variation spelled as “Mena”.
If you are wondering what it means, Menna means “favor,” “grace” and “gift of God.” It is a beautiful name and one which is worth considering.
Easter
This particular Egyptian name needs no introduction and you probably already know the meaning behind it, the “Goddess of Fertility and Spring.” Easter is a Christian spring festival and it is a beautiful name for a baby girl.
Sara
This name has been amazingly popular, not only across Egypt but across the entire world, and for a pretty good reason. The name is beautiful, feminine, and means “princess.”
If you are going to spoil your baby girl with lots of love, what could be a better name than this?
Eman
Eman is gender-neutral and can be used for both sexes, however, it is more commonly used for girls. The origin of the name is Arabic and it means “faith.”
Mandisa
An Egyptian name by origin, the meaning of the word is ‘sweet’ and it’s an adorable name for your baby girl. This name however also is of African origin.
Nephthys
As a beautiful name for a girl, it has its roots both in Egyptian and Greek. The meaning behind the name is “lady of the house,” but according to some Egyptian cosmologies, this name also means “useful goddess.”
Tauret
If you are looking for Egyptian goddess names, you can go for this one. Tauret is known as the Goddess of pregnant women and it is said that people bearing this name have a very charming and sophisticated personality.
Tiye
Pronounced [tie-ee], this is perfect if feel that your little girl is going to be an adventurous woman in the future.
Tiye is an ancient Egyptian name derived from a queen who was the mother of Akhenaten, symbolizing someone who is adventurous at heart and believes in making their own rules and setting out on their path in life.
Lateef
This one has been quite popular over the years and you might have even come across this name in TV soap dramas. This beautiful Egyptian name usually represents someone mild and kind to nature.
Zuberi
One of the prettiest Egyptian girl names, the meaning of this name is “strong.” It is a lovely way to name your baby girl and make her feel determined and strong.
Nakia
With an Egyptian origin, this is a beautiful option for your baby girl and has a lot of different variations to play on including Nakiya, Nikia, Nakeya, etc.
The actual meaning of this word is “someone pure and faithful,” which has a ring to it and brings a sense of peace and tranquility.
Dalia
Isn’t it an absolutely pretty name? No wonder this name has been popular for many years now and is used by people all over the world today. Some alternatives to go for are Dalya or Dalit.
The meaning of this word is “a hanging branch, a strong branch.” The pronunciation is similar to how the word Dahlia is said.
Jamila
Another great popular option, this name is derived from Arabic and Egyptian roots and the meaning of the word is “something beautiful and elegant.”
There are some variations that you can go for like Jameela, Gamila, Djamila, etc. Nonetheless, the name is very beautiful just like the meaning behind it.
In Conclusion
We hope that our list helped you select the name for your precious little bundle of joy!
Whether you are African-American and want to connect to your roots or are fascinated with African culture and history, African names are meaningful and unique!
They have a long history since names hold importance in many areas.
Giving your child an African name will set them apart and make them memorable.
Putting thought into the name means that they can take pride in what his parents chose for him.
Every name has its unique constitution and effect, from meanings that tug at the heartstrings to those that wish luck to the child’s future.
Since it can affect personality, it may affect how he will fit in society later on; so be careful!
Take your time and put thought into your baby’s name; after all, you only get to name them once.
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