African Baby Names

A historical rationale and the proper translations and usage of African names from the four comers of the continent

This book is organized to facilitate your exploration of names based on various themes, origins, and styles. The chapters are designed to provide insights into the cultural and historical context of names, guiding you on a journey that transcends mere alphabetical arrangements. From exploring the roots of names from different regions to uncovering the magic behind literary and mythological names, each section is a gateway to a world of possibilities. In addition to traditional and popular names, we've included sections on unique and unconventional names for those seeking something a little different. This book is a celebration of diversity, ensuring that there's a name for every family, every story, and every little personality waiting to make their mark on the world.

One compiled this book of baby names in order to help the descendants of the wondrous continent of Africa to reconnect with their native ancestral heritage and traditions. Africa is not only the birthplace of humanity but also of complex customs, oral traditions and diverse peoples. The continent is home to several language families and hundreds of languages. The people can be divided into over a thousand different ethnic groups. Traditional African given names often reflect the circumstances at the time of birth. Names such as Mwanajuma "Friday", Esi "Sunday", Khamisi "Thursday", and Wekesa "harvest time" refer to the time or day when the child was born. Other names reflect the birth order of the newborn, for example Mosi "first born", Kunto "third born", Nsonowa "seventh born", and Wasswa "first of twins". In order reflect the diversity of this magnificent continent, one has compiled names from the land of ancient Kemet (Egypt), Zulu peoples, Youroba peoples, Swahili peoples and Ethiopia (Amharic).

From an author who adopted an African name as an adult comes the most inclusive book of African names. Obama, Iman, Kanye, Laila—authentic African names are appearing more often in nurseries, classrooms, and boardrooms. The African Book of Names offers readers more than 5,000 common and uncommon names organized by theme from 37 countries and at least 70 different ethnolinguistic groups. Destined to become a classic keepsake, The African Book of Names shares in-depth insight about the spiritual, social, and political importance of names from Angola to Zimbabwe. As the most far-reaching book on the subject, this timely and informative resource guide vibrates with the culture of Africa and encourages Blacks across the globe to affirm their African origins by selecting African names. In addition to thousands of names from north, south, east, central and west Africa, the book shares: A checklist of dos and don'ts to consider when choosing a name—from sound and rhythm to origin and meaning A guide to conducting your own African-centered naming ceremony A 200-year naming calendar

"This book brings all the cultures and languages of the continent of Africa under a common roof and draws most popular and meaningful African names"--Page 4 of cover.

A comprehensive treasury of more than 10,000 African-American baby names. Names are a hallmark of our heritage, reflections of both the ethnic and religious roots of our past and our dreams for our childrens' future. This A-to-Z guide includes more than 10,000 names, ranging from African names to contemporary names to traditonal Muslim names and more. Also featured is advice on alternative spellings, information on origins and meanings, and tips on choosing a name that will help parents reflect the treasure of the child who owns it. • Alphabetically Listed for Easy Reference •

"The giving of names is of great importance in Africa. People are named after events, happenings, great things, the days of the week, or the order in which they were born. For example, if a couple had long wanted a son, in Nigeria they may call him "Ayinde" (Yoruba), meaning the one we prayed for. In Ghana, if a boy is born on Saturday he is called "Kwame" (Akan). In Tanzania, the second born of twins will be called "Doto" (Zaramo). People have asked me whether names like James, Gary, or Francis could be translated into African form. There is no direct translation from English names to African, but if we go back to the original meaning of an English name, we can often find an African equivalent. For example, the English Theodore and the Ibo "Okechuku" both mean "God's gift."--From preface.

A name is more than a combination of letters; it is a powerful identifier, a label that carries with it a sense of heritage, culture, and individuality. Each name has its own story and its unique melody that adds to the symphony of human existence. Choosing a name for your baby is not just about selecting a word; it's about creating a legacy, a moniker that will resonate through generations. In the pages that follow, we delve into the art and science of baby naming. This book is not merely a list of names but a journey through the rich tapestry of linguistic diversity, cultural heritage, and contemporary trends. Whether you seek a traditional name rooted in history or a modern name with a touch of innovation, you will find a treasure trove of options to suit your preferences.