Choosing a name is one of the most important moments in a Yoruba family. Yoruba names are not just labels: they are prayers, family stories and statements of hope. If you are searching for Yoruba baby names with beautiful meanings, this list of 20 popular boy and girl names will help you start.
How Yoruba names are chosen
Traditionally the family considers the circumstances of the birth, family history and hopes for the child before naming. Many names begin with Oluwa (God), Ade (crown) or Ola (wealth/honour), and the name is formally given at the Yoruba naming ceremony, usually on the seventh or eighth day. A proverb sums it up: Ilé la ń wò, ká tó sọmọ lórúkọ, “we look at the home before naming the child.”
10 Yoruba names for boys
| Name | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Ayomide | My joy has arrived |
| Adewale | The crown has come home |
| Babatunde | Father has returned |
| Olamide | My wealth has arrived |
| Temitope | Mine is thanksgiving |
| Ayodele | Joy has come home |
| Adebayo | The crown meets joy |
| Oluwafemi | God loves me |
| Olusegun | God is victorious |
| Oluwaseun | God’s victory (thanks to God) |
10 Yoruba names for girls
| Name | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Yetunde | Mother has returned |
| Folake | To pamper with wealth |
| Titilayo | Eternal joy |
| Morenike | I have found someone to pamper |
| Abimbola | Born into wealth |
| Damilola | God has made me wealthy |
| Ireoluwa | God’s goodness |
| Adenike | The crown is cherished |
| Temitayo | Mine is joy |
| Funmilayo | Give me joy |
Unisex Yoruba names
Several Yoruba names are given to both boys and girls, including Ayomide, Temitope, Damilola and Ireoluwa. Unlike many European languages, Yoruba names are often not strictly tied to gender.
Tips for choosing a Yoruba name
- Say the name aloud and check the tone marks so the meaning is right.
- Ask grandparents for family names and their stories.
- Consider a short everyday form (such as Tunde, Wale or Tayo) alongside the full name.
Frequently asked questions
What is a popular Yoruba name for a girl?
Titilayo, Yetunde, Folake and Funmilayo are all popular.
When do Yoruba families name a baby?
Traditionally on the seventh or eighth day after birth, in the naming ceremony called Isomoloruko.
Related reading: Yoruba Proverbs and Their Meanings and Yoruba Greetings.
Image credits: Ayodele Adeniyi on Unsplash.
