Choosing a name with meanings from various cultures around the world can be truly beautiful.
A cultural baby name goes beyond mere denotations; it becomes a symbol of inclusiveness and universality.
Opting for a name from your family’s heritage can also be a wonderful way to honor your union and the creation of your new family.
Yoruba names, in particular, hold a rich history, culture, and significance stemming from a place renowned for its folk beliefs, cultural philosophy, and folklore.
The Yoruba people are one of Nigeria’s largest ethnic groups, with approximately 40 million individuals spread worldwide.
This ancient and proud culture boasts a dynamic history that soon-to-be parents can embrace by selecting meaningful Yoruba baby names that reflect the traditions of this Nigerian ethnic group.
Among the plethora of fascinating Yoruba names, we will focus on those that resemble English words in writing but may have a distinct pronunciation.
| Name | Meaning |
| Ore | Ally or friend |
| Shade | Honor earns crown |
| Desire | Appeared in goodness |
| Kola | Brings wealth |
| Wale | A person who returns to God |
| Akin | Brave, Warrior, strong, or the violent one |
| Ale | The tough one |
| Dupe | I am grateful or Thank you |
| Jade | Go out into wealth |
| Dare | Do good |
| Joke | To be taken care of by all |
| Bade | A traditional state in Yobe State |
| Awe | Bathed in beauty or the beautiful one |
| Bimbo | Born in wealth |
| Ade | Crown |
| Awe | The slim one |
| Bere | First daughter of the family |
| Bummi | Gift of God |
| Baba | Father or grandfather |
| Omo | Child |
| Ope | Thanks |
| Ye | Abbreviated form of Iya; mother or grandmother |
| Arise | – |
| Are | – |
| Mope | – |
| Fore | – |
| More | – |
| Bare | – |
| Made | – |