south africa surnames south africa surnames

Zadzisai (Shona origin) meaning "fulfillment of a promise". Having its origin in Yoruba, Awolowo means the oracle has dignity. Here is a list of the best and most common African last names from South Africa along with their meaning. Adomako Origin: Ghanaian. 38. 8. Osei meaning "royalty". Omenma meaning "one who does enough for others". Some of these names can also be found in other parts of Africa, but are more commonly found amongst people in northern Africa. 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. This article contains incorrect information, This article doesnt have the information Im looking for, 100 African Last Names With Meanings And History, 60+ Funny Orc Names That Are Perfect For Your Next Campaign, All Of The Pillar Men Names From JoJo's Bizarre Adventure, 100+ Ice Hockey, Roller Hockey, And Hockey Team Names From Past And Present, 80+ Beaver Names From Fiction, Plus Cute And Funny Ideas For Names. Most Popular African Last Names on FamilyEducation: Ba, Ballo, Dial, First Trimester To-Do List: Take Care of Yourself. 13. The Muslim name Abd-Allah is equivalent to the Gebre Egziabher I mentioned above. Last names come from indigenous, colonialist, and diasporic roots. 32. Dalitso (Malawi origin) means blessing. Get in touch! Subscribe for virtual tools, STEM-inspired play, creative tips and more. Madia South African. 88. It is considered a male name. It is usually considered to be suitable for boys. Ouahmed (Berber origin) meaning son of Ahmed. 63. Chidubem Origin: Nigerian (Igbo). Akinyi is another popular last name in Africa that means born in the morning.. It is both a surname and a given name, which means I should give praise. 6. See a medical professional for personalized consultation. according to the nigerian census. Fundamental All languages Afrikaans Terms by semantic function Names Surnames. 33. There are 54 countries on the African continent, and each is made up of unique people from different ethnic groups which provides a rich variety to the range of different surnames found across the continent. Mary Twala was an artist who started her career by starring in 'Generations', a South African TV series. Anyone using the information provided by Kidadl does so at their own risk and we can not accept liability if things go wrong. 89. A mainstream name among the Igbo surnames in Nigeria, Obi means heart. Dawit (Amharic origin) means beloved. This skyrocketing demand has a variety of negative side effects, like high prices or bad farming practices, but now there seems to be another one to keep an eye on: immature avocados. Negga/Nega Origin: Ethiopian. An optimistic surname and first name that hopes for prosperity, Adebisi means the king/crown/royalty produced more. Boitumelo (Botswanan origin) means joy. 62. Jomana (Arabic origin) means a pearl. Botha Southern African, Afrikaans. Over nine year more. 101. Nnadi (Igbo origin) meaning "my father lives". Last names or family names are surnames that identify a person's family, community, tribe, or village. Meaning: Child of the freeborn man.. Zadzisai -It has its roots in the Shona group of Zimbabwe, and means fulfilment of a pledge or a promise. 71. FamilyEducation does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Lucas Radebe is a former African football player who became known as 'The Chief' during his time at Leeds United. Sarpong It has its origin in the Ashanti or Asante group. Mohammed Praise-worthiness and laudability, 57. 56. 17. Toure (Soninke origin) meaning "elephant". Kikelomo is one of the most conventional names that can be found among African languages. If you purchase using the buy now button we may earn a small commission. 84. Osei Typically found in the Akan group of Ghana, it means royalty or noble person. 41. If you had as much fun as we believe you did with this article, you can spread the joy by sharing it with friends and family. South African variant of Both. Benhaim (Judoe origin) means son of life. A common nickname among the Yoruba people, Afolayan means one who walks with confidence or one who carries oneself like a wealthy person. Zammit (Tunisian origin) means servant of. Originating from the Igbo group of West Africa, Abara means spirit. 70. Feel free to also check out the history of these surnames as well to help you learn a little bit more about your background. The Xhosa as well Zulu languages have 3 distincts clicks X, C and Q but Xhosas use more clicks than Zulus in their everyday conversations. 20. I am having trouble picking the right name for her, and I want to get it correct so the first name and last name come from the same culture and make sense together. A popular surname among the Yoruba people from different countries of West Africa, Abimbola means born with wealth. Get in touch! It has its roots in the Shona group of Zimbabwe, and means fulfilment of a pledge or a promise. It is usually given to boys. Agrinya (Yala origin) meaning "warrior". Igbinedion It has its origins in the Benin culture and means seeking refuge in the elders protection. 54. It is important to know that there are over 10 official languages in South Africa. As an Amazon Associate, Kidadl earns from qualifying purchases. 88. Pages in category "Afrikaans-language surnames" The following 148 pages are in this category, out of 148 total. I maintain the list. Its other variants are Orjea, Orjee, Orjey, Orjie, and Orjy. The Africans really delve into their culture, language, and ethnicity to bring out tremendous names. It took me most of my life to come to this understanding about my name. Ait (Berber origin) means son, and is found among people from Morocco. Check your inbox for your latest news from us. This name is mostly given to sons by the hopeful family. 22. Falade Several African names and surnames, when translated, often make full sentences. It means wealth has come home, and is predominantly considered a male name. 63. It is usually given to boys. Thanks! It means sturdy or mighty tree. His reason was to rid the country of all of Mobutus influence and he felt a change of name was the way to do it. 19. The following 148 pages are in this category, out of 148 total. 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. 21. You contact them to see if you share . 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. Meaning: Bushbuck.. Originating from the Ibibio group, Akpabio means leader, noble or prime. 17. Okusanya (Yoruba origin) meaning "God has rewarded me". Okafor (Igbo origin) meaning "born on Afor". 15. The above list includes all the meaningful surnames with their unique meanings. Meziane is a variation. 77. I think my name shows more the hope and wish of my parents than mine (given that I am on the atheistic side of things). 66. Asa directly translates to shield, so Alasa means lord or owner of the shield. I interpret my name to mean that I lie low, allowing my snout to be poked and proded until I emerge to reveal all that was hidden below the murky waters suface. Adebisi Origin: Nigerian (Yoruba). You can find some beautiful and popular African last names from countries in eastern Africa. Another name that originates from the Shona group is Zivai, which means you must know. Adebisi (Nigerian origin) meaning "we/the King gave birth to more," from the Yoruba ethnic group. 44. Usually found among the male population of Nigeria, this name means honor surrounds him. 25. Amaike (Igbo origin) meaning "the compound stays strong". Meaning: Handsome, manly, or strong.. It is an Akan male surname which means strong-willed and determined. 35. Alioune (Senegalis origin) meaning "sublime" or "lofty". 38. Behind the Name: Ndebele Given Names. Olantungi (Yoruba origin) meaning "wealth wakes again". Please note: prices are correct and items are available at the time the article was published. Name and surname: NE NTULI STUDENT NUMBER: 60283858 UNIQUE NUMBER: 888570 MODULE: PVL 2601 ASSINGMENT 1 SEMESTER 2 2020 Question 1 a. 72. Browse our list of the most common South American names and surnames from A-Z. Meaning: When they plan.. Any information you provide to us via this website may be placed by us on servers located in countries outside the EU if you do not agree to such placement, do not provide the information. They speak Afrikaans and generally worship in Reformed Christian churches, but exhibit discernible non-European ancestry, in particular African ancestry. Buhle (Xhosa origin) meaning "handsome". At Kidadl we pride ourselves on offering families original ideas to make the most of time spent together at home or out and about, wherever you are in the world. 31. 26. Obama Popularized by former US president Barack Obama, the name has its origin in the Luo dialect, and means to lean or bend. It is suitable for both boys and girls. Its other variants are Wonai and Vonai. The name can be translated as fullness of power. It is both a surname and given name of Yoruba origin, which means the crown gained advancement. 43. 23. 42. 8. Quansah is one of the many surnames that makes reference to religion and a higher power. It is suitable for both boys and girls. African names have always been associated with personal identity and personality structure expressed in the hopes and aspirations of the parents and passed on to the individual child. It can be translated into the land is active. Mandela (Xhosa origin) meaning "gift of God". Keita meaning "blessing". It is a globally used Igbo surname which means tiger. 68. We hope you love our recommendations for products and services! Axmed (Somali origin) the variant for Ahmed. It is common both as a surname and a nickname. Hassan Origin: An Arabic name found throughout Morocco. The accuracy of these name definitions cannot be guaranteed. 2022 Sandbox Networks Inc. All rights reserved. 1. Mlambo (Xhosa origin) meaning "river". And a Nigerian friend has told me that many Ibo names are equivalent compounds of the divines name and some desirable relationship. Good question! Accordingly, all letters that make up these last names must be duly considered and put into perspective while trying to pronounce them. Oyekan -Generally used as a masculine name, it means we have increased or multiplied or we are many among the Shona group of Zimbabwe. Chaka: This name is mostly known across many nations as it came to prominence as a result of the fame of Yvonne Chaka Chaka, a singer and entertainer. It is suitable for both boys and girls. Information on our advertising guidelines can be found. Medupe (Tswana origin) meaning "gentle rain". 86. Nnadi is an extremely common surname used in much African community. 67. Oliver Tambo was a South African revolutionary and head of the ANC (African National Congress) for 24 years. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); Totally Wonderful African Surnames and their Astonishing Meanings. Ramotholo Sefako is known as one of the first black South African astrophysicists. Names such as Mwanajuma Friday, Esi Sunday, Khamisi Thursday, and Wekesa harvest time refer to the time or day when the child was born. This surname has its ancestral roots in Swahili, and means born on Friday. Dualeh (Somali origin) the meaning of this name is unknown. 80. 85. 11. It is a Dutch/Flemish variant on the word Lowe, meaning Lion. From lino cutting to surfing to childrens mental health, their hobbies and interests range far and wide. Kimathi is a popular last name used in many African provinces. Your privacy is important to us. 79. 30. It means supreme or a great warrior and is usually given to boys. It means child with fat cheeks. There are 54 countries, between 900 and 1,500 languages, and several thousand ethnic groups in Africa, according to Britannica. It is typically a male name. A name that reflects the gratitude of the family is Chamapiwa, meaning that which you have been given. 3. Afolabi (Yoruba origin) meaning "someone who is born into high status and wealth". It is a conventional female name among the Yoruba groups and means wealth is sweet. Richard Maponya was a South African conglomerate who built a business empire. Nwachukwu -This surname shows the devout nature of the people towards religion and belief in God. 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. It is generally regarded as suitable for boys. It is a popular female given and last name among the Yoruba people, and means a child to be cherished or pampered. We can be baptised another Kenyan/African and more meaningful name than being another of the somewhat bland Peters and Janes of the world. 2023 Wording Vibes - WordPress Theme by Kadence WP, Classic French Boy Names that Exudes Essence and Masculinity, Best Out of Waste Ideas to Make Kids Smart and Skillful, Hippie Names that are Quite Lighthearted for Innocent Kids, A Broad Collection of Names that Mean Wind, Storm or Air, Most Modern Tamil Baby Names Popularly Used for Kids, Royal Family Last Names Globally Recognized with Regality, Ageless Aztec Names that have Transcended Time and Generations, 160+ Best Unique Names for Grandma Grandmother Nicknames. You have subscribed to: Remember that you can always manage your preferences or unsubscribe through the link at the foot of each newsletter. From Latin praetor meaning "leader". Chidubem (Igbo origin) meaning "guided by God". 99. Olanrewaju (Yoruba origin) meaning "my prosperity is moving forward". Several African names and surnames, when translated, often make full sentences. The one-stop destination for all the unique and amazing African surnames. SOUTH AFRICAN SURNAMES - A PLEASE NOTE: This is ONLY a listing of who is interested in which South African families. Also: no one can dictate my life, nor my destiny, strong to be God to my destiny and my self. Okeke (Igbo origin) meaning "born on Eke". So Ndubueze means that life is king to live is to be a king. Kidadl provides inspiration to entertain and educate your children. It is a nickname which also functions as the last name. Akinyemi is a surname found mostly in descendants of the Yoruba people. Generally given to boys, it means the king/crown/royalty befits me or worthy of the crown. Nenge -This unusual surname means see in Tiv. Molungu (Bantu origin) meaning "God". This does not influence our choices. A common name among the Kenyan people, Kenyatta means musician. 8. Onai (Shona origin) meaning "call to observe". Dikeledi (Botswanan origin) means tears. Kidadl cannot accept liability for the execution of these ideas, and parental supervision is advised at all times, as safety is paramount. 2. It is usually given to boys. I maintain the list. Meaning: We added to the crown.. Faraji is a common Swahili last name that is loved by all due to its sweetness and candor. Many African last names reference wealth and the aristocracy. 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. Outside work, her interests include music, movies, travel, philanthropy, writing her blog, and reading. Check your inbox for your latest news from us. Originally a unisex nickname, Oriko is often used as a fond last name. 69. Our recommended activities are based on age but these are a guide. Ray Phiri was a Malawian immigrant who went on to become one of South Africa's most renowned Jazz musicians. Wairimu Kuria, Kenyan in US, African names comes with great pride and power. There were an estimated 300,000 white South Africans of Portuguese descent in 2010. Abebe (Amharic origin) meaning "flower". Amani (Ethiopian origin) means faith. Enjoyably, the pronunciation of these African surnames gives you a thrill that you can never get with any other set of Surnames. 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. Mandela. Abara (Igbo origin) meaning "spirit". In the United States anyone who manifests African ancestry is coded as "black". Nkosazana Dlamini Zuma is an anti-apartheid activist and politician, who worked under Nelson Mandela as the South African Minister of Health. 14. Umburter (Tiv origin) meaning "remember the father". Orji meaning "mighty tree". There are ten countries found in this part of the continent, not counting the island of Madagascar. 93. Dumisani (South African origin) means praise in Zulu and Ndebele. We recognise that not all activities and ideas are appropriate and suitable for all children and families or in all circumstances. 96. Her love for content creation made her pivot her career from science to writing. Banchiamalck Dessalegn, Ethiopian in U.S. My name Derefaka figuratively means: Continuing the heritage of our fathers. It means a good runner. Amel (North African origin) means hope. 5. When we come to my dads name Negussie it means my king and my grandpas name Aberra means its shining so when you read my entire name it has a meaning of Daniel my king shines. Yeah, I hope I will shine forever and be a man for a change. Copyright 2011 - 2023 MomJunction Private Limited. Widely used among the Yoruba families, it means help build our house or build my house for me. Mostly given to the men as a surname or a given name, it means my fathers land or my ancestral home. Elya (Ethiopian origin) meaning my God is Yahweh. Itumeleng (Botswanan origin) means joy. Afia (Akan origin) meaning "born on a Friday," commonly found in Ghana and the Ivory Coast. Abara is a common last name in the Igbo community. An appreciative masculine name that embraces a new arrival with positivity, it means the king/crown/royalty filled the house. 76. Chaka (Bemba origin) meaning "year". 73. Negga (Ethiopian origin) means "the night has passed". First Trimester To-Do List: Take Care of Yourself. Mkerref (Moroccan origin) the meaning isnt quite certain. Umburter is one of the most prominent African last names from the Tiv language. Kidadl is independent and to make our service free to you the reader we are supported by advertising. Owusu It is an Akan male surname which means strong-willed and determined. Igwe (Igbo origin) meaning "sky". On this Wikipedia the language links are at the top of the page across from the article title. Chrizanne (South African origin) from the Afrikaans tribe, this is a combination of Christine and Anne. 2. 58. Afrikaans names shared by family members. 32. Omenma It is a nickname which also functions as the last name. Kikelomo (Yoruba origin) meaning "to be cherished". Madhurima has completed her Masters in Biochemistry from North Eastern Hill University (NEHU), Shillong. 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. One of such names is a Yoruba surname Falade, which means god of divination has intermingled with royalty. Typically found in the Akan group of Ghania, it means royalty or noble person. 43. Abiodun Origin: Yoruba. 10. Abara is a common last name in the Igbo community. Surnames like Abimbola that reference wealth and prosperity are common in South Africa. It means mine is worthy of thanks or gratitude, and is suitable for both boys and girls. 90. Mambwe (Zambian origin) meaning "the Lord is gracious". Many last names in South Africa make references to royalty. You can hear a certain surname in a family being carried forward for many generations. Its variant is Chike, which means Gods power. 82. Rajnandini is an art lover and enthusiastically likes to spread her knowledge. Meaning: Title given to firstborn male children of the Ibibio/Efik people. 55. Dlamini: Another among South African names of Etswana origin that means royalty. Elmi (Somali origin) means knowledge. Etiename (Ibibio origin) meaning "benevolent". 94. 39. It is now common in South Africa. The name can be translated as fullness of power. how do go about changing your name to an African name? This category has the following 9 subcategories, out of 9 total. 14. Paul Gisemba, Kenya, Given the importance of names in my social background (among the Dinka people), I am proud to be one of those named after the famous legendary ancestor of the Dinka people of Sudan, Deng, who was believed to be the direct decendant of Adam (Garang) and Eve (Abuk). Afumba Origin: Zambian (Lozi). 99. Onai Having its origin in the Shona group of Zimbabwe, the name means a call to observe or to see that which has happened. Information on our advertising guidelines can be found. It originates from the Swahili culture and means delight or happiness. For more parenting tips and tricks, find us on Pinterest: Are you a writer, expert, or influencer? It is actually an oxymoron, a religious friend has suggested I change my name BUT, why should I? Taleb A devoted student or a seeker of knowledge, 92. 41. Meaning: Servant of God., 6. Meaning: Unknown. If you enjoy this article are interested in finding more naming information, take a look at these Peruvian last names and these Czech last names, but for now enjoy this list of African surnames with their origins and meanings. Igwe (Igbo origin) meaning "heaven". Most Popular African Last Names Or Surnames, Infographic: Top African Surnames Rich In History And Culture. Meaning: One who possesses a clever head. 70. I suppose it depends what you mean by most common . Realistically, there is no better description of diversity than with the African people and their last names. Stefanie is a freelance parenting writer and blogger, and has published works on other publications such as Motherly. From the first tribes on the earth to modern-day societies, African names represent ancestral meanings. Luthuli (Zulu origin) meaning "the month of dust". Okoro - Origin: Nigerian (Urhobo). In the Wolof language, Alioune means lofty or sublime. An Igbo surname, Ala means land, while neme means doing something. They are passionate about turning your everyday moments into memories and bringing you inspiring ideas to have fun with your family. This name suits both boys and girls. This surname is possibly derived from the Sonink word tr, which means elephant. 62. It means peace, suitable for a boy or a girl. Gbeho Origin: Ghanaian. Subscribe for virtual tools, STEM-inspired play, 44. Acheampong (Ashanti origin) this last names means "destined for greatness," found among the Ashanti people of Ghana. Pretorius Southern African, Afrikaans. 98. 18. Phiri (Malawi origin) meaning "mountain". SaveIllustration: Momjunction Design Team. This list also contains some of the most common Yoruba surnames, like Adebayo and some interesting Igbo last names. 41. Dlamini is also the surname of the reigning royal family of eSwatini. There are also hundreds of languages spoken on the continent, providing endless interesting meanings of each last name. This is one of the beauties associated with African surnames. Meaning: Unknown. Over several hundred years, borders have been made, changed and broken, making family history difficult to trace. 19. 21. Conteh is a common last name adopted throughout the African mainland. 18. Nnadi -This name from the Igbo tribes means my God is alive or my father lives. Mensah (Akan origin) means "third child," found among the people of Ghana. Mbatha meaning "protector". 83. Miriam Makeba was a civil rights activist, United Nations goodwill ambassador, singer and actress. Igwe is an extremely popular surname used by various religious subsects. Its female variant is Owusua. 39. There we go! Bayu (Ethiopian origin) meaning wind. 55. 67. We hope you love our recommendations for products and services! Abi, Togo, I love my name to death. Ayodele (Yoruba origin) meaning "joy comes home". 69. A common last name for boys among the Yoruba people, Ademola means the king/crown/royalty along with wealth. Kidadl has lots of great names articles to inspire you. 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. Motaung meaning "lions". This page was last edited on 20 June 2022, at 04:46. This also doesnt include some of the well-known tribes like Igbo and Yoruba. 75. 1. Meaning: The Lord is gracious.. It originates in Igbo and means child of the supreme God. 4. Tshabalal (Zulu origin) meaning "shooting star". Theophilus Khumalo is a retired South African football player, best known for playing in South Africa's national team. 79. de Klerk. Abioye (Yoruba origin) meaning "son of royalty". Onyeneme It is a name that compliments a person, and it means one who does well. Bankole (Nigerian origin) means "help me build my house," from the Yoruba ethnic group. 37. Archi Gumede was a prominent African politician, lawyer and human rights activist. Kidadl provides inspiration to entertain and educate your children. Ladipo -Used both as a last nameand a given name, Ladipo or Oladipo means wealth and prosperity. 28. Popular among the female populace of Nigeria, it is an inspirational name which means she opens the way. 70. It also means once or one time in the Nguni languages such as Ndebele, Xhosa, and Zulu. 2. Meaning: Destined for greatness. The names in this section are not just limited to the country, South Africa, but also to other regions in the southern part of the continent of Africa. Ladipo (Nigerian origin) meaning "wealth and prosperity," peculiar to the Yoruba people. Abebe (Amharic origin) meaning "flower". Meaning: Unknown. Khumalo (Ndebele origin) meaning "descendant of the fish tribe". 81. It is suitable for boys and girls. 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. For example Gebre-Egziabher in the Ethiopian/Eritrean languages of Amharic/Tigrinya means Servant of God and those are Christian names. You will find the place of origin and the meaning of each name in this list too. Radebe (Zulu origin) meaning "big tree". 56. 100. In many languages of Ethiopia for example, typical names are compounded of the divinity and some aspect of it.