A Guide to Choosing Yorùbá Names

Choosing a name isn’t just a tradition—it’s a powerful act of identity. In Yorùbá culture, names are more than labels. They’re stories, prayers, and a reflection of the values and hopes tied to a person’s destiny.

Whether you’re expecting a baby, embracing your roots, or simply exploring Nigerian heritage, this guide will help you understand the cultural depth behind Yorùbá names and how to choose one that resonates with meaning and legacy.

Yorùbá Naming Traditions

The Ìsọmọlórúkọ (child’s naming ceremony) usually takes place on the 8th day after birth, and is a major family event. It’s not just about picking a beautiful name—it’s about choosing words that will carry a lifetime of significance. The name chosen often reflects one of the following:

• The circumstances of a child’s birth
• Hopes and prayers for the child
• Family history and values

Types of Yorùbá Names and What They Represent

1. Oríkì (Praise Names)

Oríkì are praise names that honor a person’s lineage or ancestral achievements. They’re rooted in the idea of Orí—one’s spiritual consciousness or personal destiny. Different Oríkì reflect different kinds of Orí:

• The Fighters: These are individuals whose Orí ‘fought’ to achieve something extraordinary. Names like Àjàlá, Àjàní, and Àjàyí reflect their triumph.
• The Chosen Ones: These Orí were selected to come to earth. Names like Àṣàbí, Àṣàkẹ́, and Àṣàní embody this.
• The Requested Ones: These are people whose Ori were begged to come to earth, often through prayer or sacrifice. Names like Àbẹ̀bí, Àbẹ̀ní, and Àbẹ̀fẹ́ symbolize this.
• The Deliberate Ones: These Orí came to Earth with a purpose. Names like Akànjí, Akànbí, and Akànní reflect intentionality.
• The Praised Ones: These Orí thrive on recognition and eulogy. Names like Àyìndé, Àyìnlá, and Àyìnkẹ́ embody their celebratory nature.”

👉 Best for: Parents who want a name that honor the spiritual essence and ancestral pride of a person.

2. Names Based on Circumstances or Destiny

These names tell a story—about how or when the child was born:

• Ìgè – “Born with legs first” (for breech births)
• Babájíde – “Father has returned” (often given to a male child born after a grandfather’s or father figure’s passing)
• Yétúndé  – “Mother has returned” (often given to a female child born after a grandmother’s passing)
• Táíwò – “The first of a set of twins”
• Kẹ́hìndé – “The second of a set of twins”
• Ìdòwú – “A child born after a set of twins”

👉 Best for: Those who want a name tied to a child’s unique birth experience

3. God-centered & Spiritual Names

These names often begin with the prefix “Olúwa” (God) and acknowledge God as the source of life and blessings. For example:

• OlúwadámilóỌlá – “God has blessed me with wealth”
• Olúwatùmínínú – ”God has comforted me”

• Olúwadémiládé – “God has crowned me”

• Olúwatóbilọ́ba – “God is great as king / God is a great king.”

• Olúwapèmísíré – “God called me to goodness”

👉 Best for: Those who want a name that reflects faith and spirituality.

4. Names Reflecting Royalty & Nobility

Many Yorùbá names start with Adé – (crown) or Ọlá– (wealth), symbolizing nobility, dignity and honor. Examples include:

• Adéjọkẹ́ – “The crown pampers”
• Ọlámídé – “My wealth has arrived”
• Adédiwúrà  – The crown has turned to gold

• Ọlábọ̀dé  – Wealth has returned

• Adébọ̀wálé  – The crown has come home

• Ọlámipọ̀si  – My wealth has increased

👉 Best for: Parents looking for a regal, meaningful name.

Tips for Choosing the Right Yorùbá Name

• Understand the meaning – Yorùbá names often carry messages, so choose one that aligns with your values.
• Consider pronunciation – Ensure you can pronounce the name correctly and with the right tones.
• Think about cultural significance – Some names have deep historical or traditional ties.

In Conclusion

Choosing a Yorùbá name is a beautiful way to celebrate identity, history, and purpose. Whether you’re naming a baby, reclaiming your heritage, or simply curious about Nigerian languages and culture, each Yorùbá name offers a poetic lens into the values of a people.

At Lingawa, we believe that language connects us to who we are. Want to learn more about Yorùbá names, language, and culture? Start your journey with us today.