Foreign first names

Yoruba first names

18 February 2025 /

The Yoruba are a major ethnic and linguistic group in West Africa, mainly located in Nigeria, but also present in Benin and Togo. With an estimated population of around 40 million, the Yoruba represent one of the largest ethnic groups on the African continent. Their cultural, social and religious influence is profound and varied, marking both their region of origin and diasporas around the world.

Good to know
1. Diversity of first names: Yoruba culture has a wide range of first names, each reflecting specific birth circumstances, parental aspirations or significant events. For example, "Abidemi" means "born during father's absence", while "Abimbola" translates as "born rich". Source: NAME ME
2. Popularity of first names linked to royalty: First names beginning with "Ade", meaning "crown", are commonly used. Examples include "Adebola" ("crown meets wealth") and "Adebayo" ("crown brought joy"), reflecting the importance of royalty and nobility in Yoruba culture. Source : NAME ME
3. Names reflecting faith: Many Yoruba first names incorporate "Olu" or "Oluwa", meaning "God" or "Lord". For example, "Olujide" means "God is my protector" and "Olufemi" translates as "God loves me", illustrating the deep spirituality of the Yoruba people.

What is the history of the Yoruba people?

The Yoruba believe they descend from a common ancestor named Oduduwa, who came from the holy city of Ile-Ife. This city is often considered the cradle of Yoruba civilization. Over the centuries, the Yoruba founded several powerful kingdoms and empires, the most famous being the Oyo Empire, which flourished between the 17th and 19th centuries.

The Yoruba social structure is hierarchical, with local kings called “Oba” at the head of each town or village. Each Oba is supported by a series of councils and subordinate chiefs, ensuring governance and social cohesion.

Yoruba culture and religion

The Yoruba language belongs to the Niger-Congo language family and is a tonal language with several dialects. Traditionally, the Yoruba practiced the indigenous Yoruba religion, which worships a pantheon of deities known as Orisha. Today, many Yoruba are Christian or Muslim, but traditional religious practices remain and continue to influence the culture.

The Yoruba are renowned for their art, particularly wood and bronze sculptures. Yoruba masks and statues are appreciated worldwide for their aesthetic and spiritual depth. Yoruba music, using instruments such as the talking drum (bata) and the slit drum (djembe), and traditional dances are key elements of cultural celebrations.

Yoruba first names and their meanings

Yoruba first names are deeply rooted in the culture and are often associated with birth circumstances, expectations or blessings. Each name carries a unique meaning and history. Here are some examples of Yoruba first names and their meanings:

You bet! Here’s a balanced list of Yoruba names for each gender, with meanings for each name.

Yoruba names for boys and their meanings

  • Adebayo: “The crown brought joy”
  • Adebisi: “We’ve added to the crown”.
  • Adebiyi: “The king is born
  • Adedayo: “The crown has arrived
  • Ayotunde: “Joy has returned
  • Ayodele: “Joy has arrived at home”.
  • Babajide: “The father has come”.
  • Boluwatife: “What God wants”.
  • Damilola: “Blessed with wealth
  • Fiyinfolu: “Give glory to God”.
  • Iretiola: “Hope for wealth
  • Kehinde: “The one who came after (generally used for twins)”.
  • Olajide: “Wealth has come”.
  • Olufemi: “God loves me”.
  • Oluwadamilola: “God has blessed me with wealth”.
  • Temidayo: “My destiny has turned into joy”.

Yoruba names for girls and their meanings

  • Adenike: “The crown is darling”.
  • Ifeoluwa: “God’s love
  • Yetunde: “The mother has returned (generally used for children born after the death of their grandmother)”.
  • Aderonke: “There’s something special about the crown”.
  • Adunola: “The sweetness of wealth
  • Ayomide: “My joy has arrived”.
  • Bolutife: “What God wanted”.
  • Ewatomi: “Beauty is great
  • Folasade: “Honor confers the crown”.
  • Modupe: “I thank God
  • Morounke: “Je suis chérie
  • Omolola: “Children are wealth”.
  • Ronke: “To have someone to cherish”.
  • Titilayo: “Eternal joy
  • Tolulope: “To God be the glory”.
  • Yewande: “Mother has returned

First names containing “Ola” and their meanings

  • Olamide: “My wealth has arrived”.
  • Olanrewaju: “My wealth is growing”.
  • Olayinka: “Wealth surrounds me”.
  • Oluwashola: “God makes wealth”.
  • Oladipo: “Wealth has doubled”.
  • Oladimeji: “My wealth is double”.

The Yoruba are an ethnic group with a rich cultural, social and political history, whose influence extends far beyond their West African homeland. Their language, traditions and names reflect a depth and richness that continues to fascinate and inspire generations around the world.

Marie’s anecdotes

First names and circumstances of birth: Among the Yoruba, it’s common to name a child according to the circumstances surrounding its birth. For example, “Abioye” means “born into royalty”, indicating a birth into a royal family. Source : Name Me

First names and destiny: Some Yoruba first names, called “Oruko Amutorunwa” or “destiny names”, are considered to have been brought from heaven. They reflect the belief that a child’s name can influence his or her destiny and character. Source : Discovery Aruba

In conclusion, Yoruba first names are much more than simple identifiers ; they are loaded with profound meanings and reflect cultural, spiritual and family values. Whether linked to royalty, faith or the circumstances of birth, each Yoruba name tells a unique story. These names, imbued with wisdom and symbolism, continue to influence current generations, preserving a rich tradition while adapting to modern developments. Choosing a Yoruba name gives a child not only an identity, but also a strong link with its heritage and destiny.