65. It means one who has many people to call for help, and is considered typically male. Amahle (Zulu origin) means the beautiful ones. Over nine year more. You will find the place of origin and the meaning of each name in this list too. Another name that originates from the Shona group is Zivai, which means you must know. Here is a list of popular South African last names. Here is a list of the best and most common African last names from South Africa along with their meaning. The native African surnames and last names are unique, reflective, and meaningful. Kidadl has lots of great names articles to inspire you. It is usually given to boys. Please note that Kidadl is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon. Behind the Name: Ndebele Given Names. 16. Abara is a common last name in the Igbo community. Forebears knows about 821,426 unique surnames in South Africa and there are 66 people per name. How big and representative is the sample. An optimistic surname and first name that hopes for prosperity, Adebisi means the king/crown/royalty produced more. Meaning: Flower or blossom., 4. Meaning: The son of royalty. The culture and diversity of the African continent are seen through its wide range of last names. 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. This name is suitable for both genders. It is usually considered to be suitable for boys. FamilyEducation does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Molungu (Bantu origin) meaning "God". First Trimester To-Do List: Take Care of Yourself. This name is mostly given to sons by the hopeful family. It is a Dutch/Flemish variant on the word Lowe, meaning Lion. 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. Coetzee Afrikaans. There are ten countries found in this part of the continent, not counting the island of Madagascar. 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. The main difference is that African parents will not just put a label on their progeny without finding out what the label is saying about their hopes and aspirations, beliefs and culture and life experiences. Okeke (Igbo origin) meaning "born on Eke". There are also hundreds of languages spoken on the continent, providing endless interesting meanings of each last name. It has its origins in the Benin culture and means seeking refuge in the elders protection. 23. Agrinya (Nigerian origin) means "warrior," found amongst the Ogoja people of Nigeria. 25. I maintain the list. Discover your DNA story and unlock the secrets of your ancestry and genealogy with our DNA kits for ancestry and the world's most comprehensive DNA database. It means peace, suitable for a boy or a girl. Madia South African. Owusu (Ghanaian origin) means "strong will and determined". Meaning: The night has passed.. Igwe is one of the most common surnames found in the Igbo community. 51. Adby Origin: Nigerian (Yoruba). 35. It is a Malian surname, which means blessing. The following two tabs change content below. 3. Back to top-1. Ameziane (Tamazight origin) means little or young, this last name is from a language that is mainly spoken in Algeria. Buhari meaning "is a man". This surname shows the devout nature of the people towards religion and belief in God. Kidadl has a number of affiliate partners that we work with including Amazon. De Beer Afrikaans. What a wonderful name; Maduabuchi Onwuachimba (Igbo-Nigeria). Okafor (Igbo origin) meaning "born on Afor". This also doesn't include some of the well-known tribes like Igbo and Yoruba. It is generally considered to be a masculine name. Nwachukwu (Igbo origin) meaning "child of God". Bayu (Ethiopian origin) meaning wind. Meaning: Unknown. 93. Meaning: Child that keeps coming or reincarnation., 5. Meaning: 'Child of the freeborn man.'. This name from the Igbo tribes means my God is alive or my father lives. An appreciative masculine name that embraces a new arrival with positivity, it means the king/crown/royalty filled the house. Oyekan -Generally used as a masculine name, it means we have increased or multiplied or we are many among the Shona group of Zimbabwe. South African variant of Both. This surname is possibly derived from the Sonink word tr, which means elephant. 7. The surname Keita gained prominence after the rule of the Keita dynasty from the 11th to the 17th century. We mention the African last names with their meanings and origins to help you learn about their rich history. Kidadl is supported by you, the reader. Osei meaning "royalty". When you buy through the links on our site we may earn a commission. 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. Bouhouche (Kabyle origin) means father. Some of the names on this list have similar meanings but are derived from different languages and tribes. It is a nickname which also functions as the last name. 100 Unique and Most Common African Last Names (Surnames), While doing our research for African Names we found these interesting aricle parts and we feel like sharing them with you, My name (Noxolo) means peace in Xhosa. My family name has a click C as well. 24. 1. 73. Kidadl cannot accept liability for the execution of these ideas, and parental supervision is advised at all times, as safety is paramount. 46. Discover the ethnic origin and meaning of last names. Last names come from indigenous, colonialist, and diasporic roots. Many of the population here practice Islam, hence there are a lot of names that originate from the Arabic language too. Abuchi, USA, I have a western surname, presumably that of the slavemaster of my forebears. She is fond of classic British literature. On this Wikipedia the language links are at the top of the page across from the article title. It is suitable for boys. 8. Pretorius Southern African, Afrikaans. Falade Several African names and surnames, when translated, often make full sentences. 36. Ray Phiri was a Malawian immigrant who went on to become one of South Africa's most renowned Jazz musicians. Vocabulary words are also often used as given names. 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. Orji meaning "mighty tree". Buhle is a common surname among people who's identity is attached to the Xhosa clan. Itumeleng (Botswanan origin) means joy. 91. This diversity is evident in all facets of their existence and it is very prominent. Makeba meaning "precious jewel". Van Graan. Generally used as a masculine name, it means we have increased or multiplied or we are many among the Shona group of Zimbabwe. 27. Phiri (Malawi origin) meaning "mountain". Adomako Origin: Ghanaian. It is usually considered a male name. Sefako meaning "hail". 56. The northern part of Africa, according to the UN, is made up of seven countries. In Igbo language, it means my land is not lost. Tshabalal (Zulu origin) meaning "shooting star". 30. It is one of the most widely used Hausa nicknames which means little. 56. From the first tribes on the earth to modern-day societies, African names represent ancestral meanings. This name is primarily given to male members. Definition from Wiktionary, the free dictionary, Afrikaans surnames from Germanic languages, Afrikaans surnames from Indo-European languages, Afrikaans surnames from Romance languages, https://en.wiktionary.org/w/index.php?title=Category:Afrikaans_surnames&oldid=67421191, Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike License. Abebe (Amharic origin) meaning "flower". 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. As Africa is made up of 54 countries (making it the second-largest continent in the world), its naming systems are diverse. 51. The first name is Bright. Stephen Biko was an African nationalist who was at the forefront of the internal resistance to the apartheid movement. It is a conventional surname across various African people and means one who is born on orie market day. It is also a display of honor for the eze or king in some parts of Igboland. 78. Ndiaye (Senegal origin) meaning "descendant of the lion clan". 64. 70. Chifundo (Malawi origin) means mercy in the Chewa language. Most Popular African Last Names Or Surnames, Infographic: Top African Surnames Rich In History And Culture. Okusanya (Yoruba origin) meaning "God has rewarded me". A mainstream name among the Igbo surnames in Nigeria, Obi means heart. Subscribe for virtual tools, STEM-inspired play, Chalo (Zambian origin) means battle. Banchiamalck Dessalegn, Ethiopian in U.S. My name Derefaka figuratively means: Continuing the heritage of our fathers. The infographic below includes some popular ones from the African continent and of African descent. One of such names is a Yoruba surname Falade, which means god of divination has intermingled with royalty. Get in touch! Ouyahia (Berber origin) means son of Yahia. It means he came in a joyful time or the king/crown/royalty meets joy in Yoruba. Owusu It is an Akan male surname which means strong-willed and determined. It means the one that I have is greater. It is suitable for both boys and girls. A popular surname among the Yoruba people from different countries of West Africa, Abimbola means born with wealth. Rajnandini is an art lover and enthusiastically likes to spread her knowledge. Another surname of Igbo origin, Agwuegbo means the hardship is over. The Igbo people do not use family names. 55. Miriam Makeba was a civil rights activist, United Nations goodwill ambassador, singer and actress. Magombo Swahili, African, Swazi (Rare) Meaning unknown, possibly related from the fore name of the same name. Chimwemwe (Malawi origin) means pleasure or joy. African Surnames: If theres ever a place or people you cant overlook, its the Africans. Onyeneme It is a name that compliments a person, and it means one who does well. Many last names in South Africa make references to royalty. Chedjou Origin: Cameroonian. Akinyi is another popular last name in Africa that means born in the morning.. 96. It is a favored name for boys among people of Yoruba lineage. We try our very best, but cannot guarantee perfection. 97. They are rich in culture and have versatile meanings and pronunciations. Nkosazana Dlamini Zuma is an anti-apartheid activist and politician, who worked under Nelson Mandela as the South African Minister of Health. It has its origin in the Shona groups of Zimbabwe. 78. It is typically a male name. 25. Unlike some places, African surnames dont really follow trends or have common features or patterns. Taleb A devoted student or a seeker of knowledge, 92. Accordingly, all letters that make up these last names must be duly considered and put into perspective while trying to pronounce them. Ganizani (Botswanan origin) means think in Chewa. Fundamental All languages Afrikaans Terms by semantic function Names Surnames. Mwanajuma -This surname has its ancestral roots in Swahili, and means born on Friday. Oluwusi It means kingship has increased. 88. My African name reflects my personality I hate fights and arguments ; I am a peaceful person. Mulder. If you are looking for African surnames for your kid, you are at the right place. Meaning: Lion., 3. Ait (Berber origin) means son, and is found among people from Morocco. 68. Sometimes used as a first name, this surname means the king/crown/royalty opens the belly/ womb. Zadzisai -It has its roots in the Shona group of Zimbabwe, and means fulfilment of a pledge or a promise. Achebe is an invocation of a deity, which means the Goddess protects. So I would say that perhaps one would find God in a lot more African names than one would suspect. 3. Oyekan (Shona origin) meaning "we are many". Our recommended activities are based on age but these are a guide. Hassan Origin: An Arabic name found throughout Morocco. It means the one that I have is greater. Your privacy is important to us. 44. There were an estimated 300,000 white South Africans of Portuguese descent in 2010. Amel (North African origin) means hope. An Igbo surname, Ala means land, while neme means doing something. 67. The above list includes all the meaningful surnames with their unique meanings. Subscribe for virtual tools, STEM-inspired play, - wife of Ralph Patrick Murray (1): 3. Apply this search to the user-submitted names. Ababio Origin: Ghanaian. 73. 6. 17. 53. It is generally considered a boy name. This name was adopted in the 17th century by Wesselius Praetorius as a Latin translation of his previous surname Schulte. Rooted in the Tiv language, Gowon means the rainmaker. This name is also predominantly given to boys. In abreviation ABUCHI for my Western folks, short and simple isnt it. 101. 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. 38. And many of the names in Oromo (another Ethiopian language) that contain Waaq as in Waaqgari, or Waaqayoo are similar derivations from the Oromo word for God (Waq). Names such as Mwanajuma Friday, Esi Sunday, Khamisi Thursday, and Wekesa harvest time refer to the time or day when the child was born. From Latin praetor meaning "leader". Similar to the name Adewole, which means the king/crown has entered the house, it has its origin from the Yoruba groups. Gebreyes (Ethiopian origin) means servant of. Browse our list of the most common South American names and surnames from A-Z. Charlize (South African origin) most common as a first name, this is the feminine version of Charles made popular by the actress Charlize Theron. Its other variants are Orjea, Orjee, Orjey, Orjie, and Orjy. 2. Maybe you have also been intrigued by these African surnames; below we give you a list of some wonderful surnames borne by Africans. Copyright 2011 - 2023 MomJunction Private Limited. A little under 10% of South Africa's population are Cape Coloureds. In the Tamazight language, Amaziane means young or little. In the Wolof language, Alioune means lofty or sublime. 58. Mensah One of the most popular African names, Mensah comes from the Akan group, and means third child born to a couple. It shows the unity of the families in the Yoruba groups. Answer (1 of 4): Most of these surnames are not Hispanic at all, but Lusophone (Portuguese). Do you know what or where the last name Uwagbal or Ofenjiaguan came from or what it means. Obi -A mainstream name among the Igbo surnames in Nigeria, Obi means heart. Here are some common South African last names: Dlamini: A popular surname in Southern Africa. Umburter is one of the most prominent African last names from the Tiv language. Desmond Tutu is a renowned clerk and theologian, known for his work in the human rights sector. 5. 14. Acheampong Origin: Ghanaian (Ashanti). 2022 Sandbox Networks Inc. All rights reserved. Onai (Shona origin) meaning "call to observe". We have listed 100 surnames of African origin in this article. The History of South African Surnames. The accuracy of these name definitions cannot be guaranteed. 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. It means one who is invulnerable to dark magic. Chidiozie is a long-established surname in many African communities. SOUTH AFRICAN SURNAMES - P PLEASE NOTE: This is ONLY a listing of who is interested in which South African families. Subscribe for virtual tools, STEM-inspired play, creative tips and more. Babangida -Among the Hausa tribes of Nigeria, Babangida means the master of the house. 92. It is considered a male name. Bonolo (South African origin) means ease in the Sotho language. Buthelezi (Zulu origin) meaning "chief". These countries have their own beautiful languages, resulting in a range of different names that are unique to this region. It is primarily masculine in essence. Widely used among the Yoruba families, it means help build our house or build my house for me. Kimathi is a popular last name used in many African provinces. Some of these names can also be found in other parts of Africa, but are more commonly found amongst people in northern Africa. Back to top? Jlassi (Tunisian origin) means loyalty or sincerity. Playing with names really is part of many African cultures. 65. Dualeh (Somali origin) the meaning of this name is unknown. It is generally regarded as suitable for boys. Find out some great southern African names with this list. Abara is a common last name in the Igbo community. 31. Bankole (Yoruba origin) meaning "build my house for me". 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. De Bruyn Afrikaans. 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. 41. Gumede (Zulu origin) meaning "to end what you have started". Answer (1 of 6): No, some similarities but very different spelling. We hope you love our recommendations for products and services! It is a name that compliments a person, and it means one who does well. This name is also masculine in essence. Surnames like Abimbola that reference wealth and prosperity are common in South Africa. Igwe is an extremely popular surname used by various religious subsects. Ambuya Mlambo was a groundbreaking broadcaster and television host best known for her programs geared towards children. 41. Luckhoff South African. Akinyemi (Yoruba origin) meaning "destined to be a warrior". It means one who acts at the time of scarcity. Please note: prices are correct and items are available at the time the article was published. It is a conventional female name among the Yoruba groups and means wealth is sweet. Mafanela South African. It is considered to be primarily male. There are 54 countries, between 900 and 1,500 languages, and several thousand ethnic groups in Africa, according to Britannica. Gavin Wood and Felix February shares more about the idea behind the Slave Calendar that explores the history of surnames of Capetonians. Mensah is a common last name used by families residing in various parts of Africa, such as South Africa. Tersoo It has its origin in the Tiv language, and means fathers love. Fatsani (Botswanan origin) means be meek in Chewa. It is usually accepted as a male name. Though hypodescent started out as a tool . South african last names starting with R What I like about this name is it reflects which tribal group of South Africa I come from. Meaning: Born with wealth.. It means one who acts at the time of scarcity. We hope you love our recommendations for products and services! Elya (Ethiopian origin) meaning my God is Yahweh. Deng Mador K-Dengdit, Sudanese in Australia, African names like most traditional names like John (Yahweh is gracious) , Patrick (nobleman) , Natasha (christmas day), Abdul (servant of..) etc.. have meanings. Ayenew (Ethiopian origin) means to renew. Osei (Ghanaian origin) means "noble person" or "royalty," and is common among the Akan people. 2022 Sandbox Networks Inc. All rights reserved. Some practice various tribal religions, others Islam or Christianity. You have subscribed to: Remember that you can always manage your preferences or unsubscribe through the link at the foot of each newsletter. It means born on a Friday. It is generally given to boys. And Its curious there arent many hausa names (if any at all). 76. Albaz (Jewish origin) means falconer and originates from Morocco and Algeria. If you want your babys name to be promising, then, this is the perfect name to choose. Abioye Origin: Nigerian. The name can be translated as fullness of power. West Nkosi was a South African songwriter and music producer. 26. By joining Kidadl you agree to Kidadls Terms of Use and Privacy Policy and consent to receiving marketing communications from Kidadl. Abioye (Yoruba origin) meaning "son of royalty". Onyilogwu -It means one who is invulnerable to dark magic. Explore the most common surnames in South Africa. Thanks! Her love for content creation made her pivot her career from science to writing. 21. FamilyEducation does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. African last names are a reflection of their customs and peculiar naming traditions. YM, Ethiopia. 87. 86. Achebe (Igbo origin) meaning "the Goddess protects". 6. Fuli (Swahili origin) means very fast. 76. Farouq The redeemer, one who differentiates between the right and wrong. SaveIllustration: Momjunction Design Team. Prince David Osei is an admired African philanthropist, investor, entrepreneur and actor. 62. Zulu (Zulu origin) meaning "heaven". 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. Abimbola (Yoruba origin) meaning "born with wealth". Nnadi (Igbo origin) meaning "my father lives". 96. 72. It means supreme or a great warrior and is usually given to boys. Ladipo (Nigerian origin) meaning "wealth and prosperity," peculiar to the Yoruba people. 70. Afrikaans names shared by family members. 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Oyinlola It is a conventional female name among the Yoruba groups and means wealth is sweet. Shaka Zulu was the leader of the Zulu Kingdom in the early 19th century. Realistically, there is no better description of diversity than with the African people and their last names. Originating from the Ibibio group, Akpabio means leader, noble or prime. 79. Nenge -This unusual surname means see in Tiv. Twala meaning "to carry". You contact them to see if you share . Maponya meaning "king of elephants". I maintain the list. It is an aspirational surname with Igbo origin, which means to be higher or to be better. Meaning: Guided by God.. 81. One of the most popular and optimistic Xhosa names is Gcobani, which means be joyful. Etienam Having its roots in Ibibio, the surname or nickname Etienam means a doer of good or benevolent. Nnadi is an extremely common surname used in much African community. Adisa (Yoruba origin) meaning "one who is clear". Esther Mahlangu is an artist best known for contemporary paintings based on her cultural heritage. 32. She writes baby name articles for MomJunction. Most Popular African Last Names on FamilyEducation: Ba, Ballo, Dial, First Trimester To-Do List: Take Care of Yourself. If you purchase using the buy now button we may earn a small commission. Meaning: Born during the festival or war. 47. It originates in Igbo and means child of the supreme God. 94. Originating from the Igbo group of West Africa, Abara means spirit. 19. Igwe (Igbo origin) meaning "sky". 34. Third item on the film. Well send you tons of inspiration to help you find a hidden gem in your local area or plan a big day out. It is usually given to boys. Meaning: Mercy. 46. Adeleke (Yoruba origin) meaning "the crown triumphed". Actually just after I was born, peace was restored in my family. Amadou Toumani Toure was a radical Malian military leader who served twice as Mali's president. Its variant is Chike, which means Gods power. I am a product of religious parents and culture; hence I shall carry this name, however unfitting it seems, to the grave. It means "leaves" (verb) in Swahili. There are 54 countries, between 900 and 1,500 languages, and several thousand ethnic groups in Africa, according to Britannica.Last names come from indigenous, colonialist, and diasporic roots. This list contains Ethiopian last names, Sudanese last names and many more. 22. Buhle: the name is used mostly by the Xhosa clan to mean handsome. 87. It is home to many ethnic groups and tribes. These people bear some of the most uncommon first names and surnames. Brought to South Africa by settlers of French decent some time in the past 300 years. 10. Nowhere in the Bible does it say one should have a Christian name and it certainly did not require it to be English or Western.