NAMES & NICKNAMES ORIGINS & MEANINGS
Are you curious about the origin/s and meaning/s of your name or someone else's name?
This page features a samplying of contemporary names that are often considered to be "non-standard" in the United States. Most of the names that are featured on this page are first & middle names.
Many of the names that are featured on this page are from African Americans.
In the United States, the populations that are most known for giving creative, unique names to their children are African Americans. Another population that is known for giving distinctive names are Mormons, or other people from the American state of Utah. These populations lead the growing trend in the United States, and in other Western nations, of giving unique names to children.
WHAT DO I MEAN BY "A NON-STANDARD NAME"?
A "non-standard" name is one that is likely not to be listed in the top 100 names for any specific nation, However, that name could be very well be a "standard" name in other nations. Although some people use adjectives such as "unusual", "odd", and "ghetto" to refer to some of these names, I prefer to describe them as being "unique" and "distinctive".
Some people stigmatize contemporary names by saying that they are "made up names". The truth of the matter is that every name was "made up" at some point in time. Some of the names featured on this page are older names that may have been commonly given in the United States, but have now been largely "retired". Other featured names may be non-English language forms of a name that Americans are still familiar with. Some of those name may still be the standard way of saying those names in Hebrew, Latin, French, Celtic, Arabic, or other languages. Other names featured on this page have been created more recently. Some of these contemporary names are variants (different forms) of one or more older names. Other names featured on this page are names that are borrowed in whole or modified versions of last names, geographical place names, product names, concept names, other nouns, or adjectives. Only a few of these "non-standard" names are completely made up "from scratch". There's a pattern to creating new names. While you read the names on this page, see which patterns you can recognize. Hint-review the names and read the comments provided on Cocojams' other two pages about names given as hyperlinks below to learn some of the ways that names are created.
NAME MEANINGS
Older names usually have one or more meanings. Someone at some point in time gave that name its meaning. Usually a name's meaning is based on the meaning of the syllables (elements) that make up the name. It's my postition that variant forms of a name have the same meaning as that "source" or "base" name. In the United States few people are interested in the semantic meaning of a name. Most Americans are interested in how a name sounds, the cultural associations that name has, and how that name is spelled.
I believe that when people use their creativity to make up an entirely new name, they can also use their creativity to give that name a meaning. Perhaps because I changed my first name when I was a young adult, I'm a strong believer that people can and should change their name or the spelling of their name if they believe that that name or its spelling doesn't "fit" them.
Most of the names on this page have been sent in to Cocojams by this website's readers. In some cases, I have added names that I'm aware of through my direct interactions, through the mass media, or online and offline readingspr experiences, or through readings. Most of the meanings on this page has been compiled using various online & offline sources as well as feedback from users. As a means of familiarizing Cocojams readers with websites on baby names, many of my responses to requests for name meanings will include hyperlinks to websites on that subject.
PHILOSOPHICAL STATEMENTS REGARDING NAMES
It's my position that names can help develop and reinforce self-esteem. Adhering to traditional West African traditions regarding naming, I say that people should "wear their names proudly". What I mean by this is that a person should think well of her or his name, and think & act in ways that will not reflect badly on that name.
USING SEARCH ENGINES TO FIND THE ORIGIN & MEANING/S OF A NAME
If you are interested in finding out the meaning of a name, please don't forget to look elsewhere on the Internet and in printed books on baby names. An Internet search engine such as Google is the easiest way to find out the origin and meaning of most names. Enter the specific name you are looking for along with the term "name meaning" into the search engine {example: John name meaning}. Or enter the key words "baby names" or "baby name meanings" into Google or another search engine. Press submit and then go to the pages that come up. For example, if I'm interested in finding out the meaning for the name "David", I would go to a search engine and post these key words:
David name meaning
DISCLAIMER
In no way do I consider myself an expert on name origin & meanings. I consider this page as an opportunity to share information that I have found in books and websites. I strongly encourage others to join with me in sharing any information or corrections that they may have about a particular name or naming practice.
I'm sorry that I'm not able to respond to every request for the origin and meaning of a particular name. My replies to queries about names are only posted on this website, and are not sent by way of private emails or postal addresses.
SEND YOUR NAME QUERIES TO COCOJAMS
Please send in your queries or comments regarding "non-traditional" names to
cocojams17@yahoo.com.. Your email address is never posted or shared.
When you send in a request for information about a name, if you know this information, please don't forget to include whether the name is male or female, or given to both males & females, and what language or culture you think it comes from.
Queries are listed in alphabetical order. The newest postings are indicated by their dates
Thanks to all those who have submitted requests and comments to this page!
Visit http://www.cocojams.com/content/yoruba-names-their-meanings-fela-sowande to read an excerpt of a manuscript about Yoruba culture that was written by the famous Nigerian scholar, musician, and composer Fela Sowande.
Also vist http://www.cocojams.com/content/similarities-between-african-american-na... The Similarities Between African American Names and Mormon Names.
Thanks again and wear your name well!
Ms. Azizi Powell
last updated 5/7/2010
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INFORMATION ABOUT THE ORIGINS & MEANINGS OF SELECTED NON-STANDARD NAMES
A,B
AALIAYAH, ALIYAH, ALIYA, ALEEYAH, ALIA, ALEA
i was just wondering if you knew where Abdul; Abdel
Editor:
I received a query about the meaning of this name on 10/18/2006.
"Abdul" is a male name from the Arabic language. See this entry from http://www.sudairy.com/arabic/masc.html {Masculine Arabic Names}
Abdul, Abdel, 'Abd al - Servant (of Allah)
-snip-
Traditionally, Abdul is often used with another Arabic male name such as "Abdullah"; meaning "Servant of Allah" [God]; "Abul Azim", meaning "Servant of the Mighty" [one] {meaning God}; and "Abdul-Aziz", meaning "Servant of the Powerful (Dear) One" [meaning God]
See other examples of this name that are found in the link posted above.
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
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ABU (Abou); ABUMERE
What does Abumere mean?
-Tammy, 8/12/2007
The word "abu" is used in Arabic in front of a personal name. It is a title somewhat similar to "Mr." and means "father of". According to http://baheyeldin.com/linguistics/misused-terms-abu-and-abdul.html, in traditional Arabic culture, the word "Abu" is used in combination with a name, and it would be incorrect to use it alone. For instance, Abu Khalid means that the person probably has a son called Khalid. However, in the United States {and probably elsewhere} Abu {Abou} is sometimes given as a male name or nickname.
I'm not sure if "Abumere" is a traditional Arabic name. I believe that it is more probable that Abumere is a newly created name that was made by combining the name Abu and the name Ameer {Amir}. Ameer is an Arabic masculine name that means "Prince". Therefore, the literal meaning of Abumere is "father of the prince". But it could also mean "father's prince"
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
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ADITI
See http://www.behindthename.com/php/view.php?name=aditi : "Gender: Feminine; Language Sanskrit; Means "boundless, entire" or "freedom, security" in Sanskrit. This is the name of the ancient Hindu mother goddess of the sky and fertility."
-snip-
Pronounciation: ah-DEE-tee
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
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AERINA
What does my name mean?
-Aerina; 11/12/2007
Editor:
Aerina, it's likely that your name is a form of the Greek name "Irene". That name used to be both a female and a male name, but now it is almost always given to females. See this information from http://www.thinkbabynames.com/meaning/0/Irene : "The boy's and girl's name Irene \i-re-ne\ is pronounced eye-REEN, eye-REE-nee. It is of Greek origin, and its meaning is "peace". Mythology: Greek goddess of peace...Irene has 28 variant forms: Aireen, Airina, Arina, Eireen, Eiren, Eirena, Eirene, Erena, Erene, Ira, Irayna, Ireen, Iren, Irena, Irenea, Irénée, Irenka, Iriana, Irina, Irine,"
-snip-
As you can see, the way your name is spelled is very much like a number of these forms of the name "Irene". As such, in my opinion, that means that "Aerina" can be considered a 29th variant form of the name Irene. Btw, "variant forms" just means that these are the different ways that the name has been spelled. Each of these forms have the same meaning if not the same pronunciation.
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
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AFENI, AFIA, AFIYA, AFI, AINI
I need to know the meaning of my four year old daughter's names, her first name is Afeni, given to her by a friend. Second name is Walterna given after her father's name Walter, and her Nickname is Sodaetia. given to her by me after my middle name Soema. I would greatly appreciate your help.
-Georgiana ; 8/02/2007
Editor:
Georgiana, I'd like to focus on the name "Afeni" in my response. You may be aware that mother of rapper Tupac Shakur changed her name to Afeni. It's possible that this name has its own established meaning. But I haven't been able to find it. I've found several traditional African & Arabic female names that are somewhat similar in pronunciation and/or spelling to the name Afeni {which I think is pronounced "ah-FEE-nee"}. Since the 1970s and even before that decade, African Americans often purposely shortened an already existing name, or otherwise changed the spelling of a name-especially female names-to create new names, or to add uniqueness to a name {or for both of these reasons}. Since traditional African names and Arabic names were not well known in the 1970s when Black Americans started given these names to their children, and/or adopting these names for themselves, it's also possible that new "African" and "Arabic" names were created by misremembering a name that they had heard or read somewhere. Some people have a problem with so-called "made up names". However, they forget that every name was made up at some time or the other. Some names are just older than others. And most older names have established meanings.
When folks ask me about meanings for what is probably a newly created name, I remind them that if someone used their creativity & self-determination to make up a name, they can also use that same creativity & self-determination to give that name a meaning. One way of deciding what meaning to give a name is to look at names that are similar. Here are some African or female names from http://www.swagga.com/a.htm that are similar in spelling or in pronunciation to the name "Afeni"
****
Afia (Effia) - [female] born on Friday (Ghana)
Afya (Ahf-yah) -health (Kiswahili)
Adenike (ah-deh-nee-kay)-The crown is loving, affectionate (Yoruba of Nigeria)
-snip-
According to the book Baby Names: Real Names With Real Meanings For African Children {Tyra Mason & Sam Chekwas, editors, New York, Seaburn, 1997}, the name "Afi" is Yoruba {Nigeria} and means "spiritual"
An Arabic female name that is similar in pronunciation to the name Afeni is Aini. According to http://www.ummah.net/family/fem.html that name means "Spring, flower, source, choice".
With regards to the female names "Sodaetia" & "Soema". I haven't been able to find any meanings for the names. My sense is that these names were made up and they don't yet have any established meaning. It may be that Soema comes from the name "Selma". This name is similar to the Arabic and Hebrew names and words which mean "peace". "Walterna" is also probably a made up name, but unlike the other names that you gave your daughter, since "Walterna" is based on the male name "Water", it can be said to share the same meaning as that name. "Walter" is an Old German name which means "commander in the army".
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
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AHMED
Editor:
This name is listed in response to a request I received on 8/29/2006
Ahmad, Ahmed - Arabic masculine name; meaning "Most highly adored, or most praised"; a variation of the name "Muhammad"
Source: http://www.sudairy.com/arabic/masc.html
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
****
AKEEM; AKIM; HIKEEM; HAKIM
I want to know what Akeem meant in African origin, Instead of arabic. Thanks
-Akeem; 6/4/2007
Editor:
Akeem, your name means the same thing in the African language KiSwahili {also known as Swahili}, as it does in the Arabic language.
http://www.zelo.com/firstnames/findresults.asp?name=Akeem provides this information for the name "Akeem" Gender: Male ; Origin: Arabic; Meaning: Wise, All-Knowing
-snip-
And http://www.thinkbabynames.com/meaning/1/Akeem gives this informantion: "The boy's name Akeem \a-keem\ is of Arabic origin, and its meaning is "intelligent". Variant of Hakeem. An exotic-sounding name. Its use is probably inspired in part by basketball player Hakeem Olajuwon, who was originally known as Akeem."
-snip-
In other words, Akeem is the KiSwahili form of the Arabic name Hakeem. KiSwahili is an African language which is spoken in East African and parts of Central Africa. One Internet website on that subject is http://www.glcom.com/hassan/swahili_history.html . Here is a brief excerpt from that website:
"The Swahili language, is basically of Bantu (African) origin. It has borrowed words from other languages such as Arabic probably as a result of the Swahili people using the Quran written in Arabic for spiritual guidance as Muslims...
Regarding the history of the Swahili language, the older view linked to the colonial time asserts that the Swahili language originates from Arabs and Persians who moved to the East African coast. Given the fact that only the vocabulary can be associated with these groups but the syntax or grammar of the language is Bantu, this argument has been almost forgotten. It is well known that any language that has to grow and expand its territories ought to absorb some vocabulary from other languages in its way."
-snip-
If you are asking what other African names are similar in meaning to the African name Akeem, one website that may be of interest to you is http://www.namesite.com/ African Names & Meanings . That website has a large number of African names for males and females. There are certainly other names on in that data base that mean "intelligent, wise, judge" which is the same meanings as the name Akeem.
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
****
AIRREON (Airreona) and Nilah
I Have two girls what do their names mean? Airreon and Nilah
-Jihad E-A; 6/5/2006
Editor:
I'm not sure that either of these two names have any standard meaning. They may have been created just recently.
Particularly since 'English' is not a language where specific syllables, prefixes and suffixes have a definite meaning, it's my position that a person can select whatever meaning they want for any name that he or she creates. In other words, since people can use their creativity to create a personal name, then they can also use their creativity to assign a positive meaning to that name.
Sometimes, there is one or more traditional names that are similar in spelling and/or in pronunciation to a contemporary name. In those cases, if the traditional name has a positive meaning, it's my practice to suggest that meaning for the contemporary "made-up" name. However, imo {in my opinion} folks can make up a meaning for a name that they have created. Why not? If it helps develop and strengthen the child's self-esteem then it's all good. Besides, creating a name and giving it a positive meaning is a form of self-determination. [I'm using Maulana Karenga's definition of self-determination {kuchijagulia}. Kuchijaculia is one of the Nguza Saba {7 principles of Kwanzaa} and Professor Karenga said it means "to name ourselves and speak for ourselves rather than be named or spoken for by others"].
If a meaning is given to a newly created name, it's likely that a person with a name that is spelled or pronounced the same, or similar will have a different meaning for that name. But that shouldn't be an impediment to assigning a meaning to a name. There are male and/or female names that are spelled exactly the same or very similarly in different languages, but those names often have very different meanings.
However, I want to be clear that I'm not saying that folks should make up a name and give that name a meaning and then tell a child that that meaning is the only one for that name. I believe that children should be told [in age appropriate terms] the story of how they got their name and how & why a particular meaning was selected for that name. If a child's name was selected from a book of names and the name has a specific meaning because of the root word, prefixes, and suffixes of the language that name comes from, that's fine. And if a parent or someone else created the name and assigned that name a specific meaning, as far as I'm concerned, that's fine too. But don't lie to a child about his or her name. The story about how your child got his or her name is one of your gifts to your child. This should become a treasured part of your child's life story, and that story, and not necessarily that name, can be {in my opinion, should be} pass on through your child to his or her children.
All this to say, Brother Jihad, that I would suggest the following meanings for the names you asked about:
Airreon
Though I don't know how you pronounce it, the first name I thought of when I saw "Airreon" is the male name "Aaron". "Aaron" is a Hebrew name that usually is said to mean "enlightment" {meaning 'wisdom'}
"Airreon" is somewhat similar to the Arabic name "Ara" {whose variants I've seen listed as "Ari"; "Aria", and "Arria"}. This name means "rainmaker" {and since nothing can live without rain, and all life comes from God {Allah}, one could say that "Ara" means "she who makes life {or makes life worthwhile}, or some such meaning
Also, there is a Yoruba {Nigeria} female name that I thought of when I saw the name "Airreon". That name "Aiyetoro" means "peace on earth".
For my guesses about the meaning of the name Nilah, see "Nia" and "Nalo.
-snip-
Of course, the choice of what these names mean is yours and the children's mother. These are only suggestions.
-Best wishes, Azizi
See this response from Jihad {6/7/2006};
Thank you brother Azizi for the info. I some how left the a off of the end of Airreona's name but its cool. Some told me to look at some greek names and I may find something close to Airreona. I find some more info on nilah in a friend's naming book. Nilah was close to nala which was said to mean princess taking from the nile. I don't know how true that is but maybe someone can use it.
Editor:
Thanks for your response and that additional information. Btw-I'm a sister and not a brother. But it's all good!
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ALICIA; ALYSSA
Please provide the meaning of the name "Alisha". Thank you very much.
-Alison; 10/9/2006
**
PUH-LEASE write this name
-Alyssa; 2/2/08
(Hello, Alyssa, see the information for the name Alison)
Editor:
Hello, Alison. See this entry from http://www.thinkbabynames.com/meaning/0/Alicia :
"The girl's name Alicia is pronounced ah-LEE-shah, ah-LEE-see-ah. It is of Old German origin, and its meaning is "noble, exalted nature." Modern Latinate form of Alice. Phonetic forms to ensure a particular pronunciation are popular....
Alicia has 32 variant forms: Alecia, Aleecia, Aleesa, Aleesha, Aleeza, Aleisha, Alesha, Aleshia, Alesia, Alica, Alieshea, Alisa, Alisha, Alishia, Alisia, Alissa, Allicia, Allysa, Allyssha, Alycia, Alysa, Alysha, Alysia, Alyssa, Alyssia, Elicia, Elisha, Lecia, Leisha, Lesha, Lesia and Licia".
-snip-
Btw, the name "Alison" is another German form of the name "Alice" and has the same meaning. I'm not sure if the name "Alicia" is related in any way to the Arabic & Hebrew female name "Aliyah". However, it's interesting that there meanings are quite similar. See the entry for "Aisha" and "Aliyah" below.
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
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AISHA
Aisha {pronounced "i-EE-shah" in the United States} is a traditional Arabic & Swahili name meaning life. This name can also mean "full of life" or "the essence of life" or some other meaning that suggest life in all its wonder & glory. "Aesha" and "Iesha" are contemporary variants of this name. The name "Isha" may also be a contemporary form of this name. The song "Iesha" was included in the 1991 album Coolin' at the Playground Ya Know by the R&B group "Another Bad Creation" {ABC}. This song probably added to Americans' familiarity with this name. See the entry below for "Isha".
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
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ALISHA (ALICIA; ALESHA; ALYSHA)
Can you please tell me the origin and meaning of name, Alisha? From which country? Does it pronouce the same as Alicia? Thanks,
-Leung; 1/9/2007
I was curious as what my name 'Alysha' means. Also its root name and description. I was born in 1992, in Canada. Thank you for you help
-Alysha; 1/6/2007
what is the meaning of the islamic name- Alesha (Aleesha)?
-ola; 2/21/2007
Editor:
In my opinion, the female name "Alesha" does not have an Arabic, or Islamic origin.
See http://www.behindthename.com/php/view.php?name=alicia:
"Alicia-Gender: Feminine; Usage: Spanish, English; Pronounced: a-LEE-sya (Spanish), a-LEE-thya (Spanish), a-LIS-a (English), a-LIS-ya (English), a-LISH-a (English), a-LEE-sha (English) [key]
Latinized form of Alice"
-snip-
Also, see this information from http://www.thinkbabynames.com/meaning/0/Alice
"The girl's name Alice is pronounced AL-iss. It is of Old German origin, and its meaning is "noble, exalted nature". Variant of the Old French name Adeliz, from Adelaide...
Alice has 100 variant forms: [including] Ali, Alica, Alicia, Alisa, Alisah, Allison, Alliss, Allyson, Alyssa, Elissa, Elke, Ellsa, Elsa, Illyssa, Ilysa, Ilysah, Ilyssa, Lissa and Lyssa".
-snip-
Alysha and Alesha are contemporary {American?} forms of the female name Alicia/Alice.
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
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ALIYAH; ALIYA
see the entry on this page for Aaliyah
****
ALONA
i would like to know the meaning and origin of hailey, jordan, and alona.
-Anita; 6/25/2006
Editor:
I'll start with the name "Alona" and work back.
Names with the same or similar spelling may occur in different languages and have completely different meanings. I found the female name "Alona" in The New Age Baby Name Book {Sue Browder; Workman Publishing; New York, 1974}. That entry says that Alona is from the Hebrew language and means "Oak tree". Oak trees have been symbols of royalty, strength, and endurance since ancient times. Click http://www.treesforlife.org.uk/forest/mythfolk/oak.html to read about the symbolism of oak trees.
But, "Halona" is a similar spelled Native American female name which means "happy fortune". It's possible that your friend's or family member's name "Alona" could be traced to that Native American name. The source for that name is also from the Sue Browder book. Unfortunately, Browder does not specific which Native American population that name comes from.
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
[See my comments on the other names requested under their alphabetical listing]
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AMANDA
my name is amanda i want know [is this] or mandria an arabic female name...
-amanda; 7/4/2006
Editor:
Amanda, your name is from the Latin language. It means 'loveable' or worthy of love. "Mandy" is a common nickname for Amanda. Also see this information from
http://baby-names.adoption.com/search/Amanda.html : " [gender] female [origin] Latin [meaning] love, worthy of love, precious thing [nicknames] Mandy, Mandie, Mandi"
However, "Amala" is an Arabic female name that is similar to Amanda.
Amala {Amal, A'mal} means ,"hopes, aspirations} http://www.ummah.net/family/fem.html
Also "Ananda" is a similar spelled Hindu female name that means "bliss".
See information posted on this page for the name "Mandria". There's some possible meanings there that you may want to consider.
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
****
AMARIAH
My daughter's name is Amariah. I was looking for something unusual, and my friends had it in their genealogy as a male farmer from the 1600s. Apparently it also appears in the Bible (in one of the Corinthians) as the name of a king. But nowhere have I found what it means! Its just ... pretty (even if it IS a male name!), and seems to suit her. But I'd still like to know a meaning, if there is one!
-Peri; 7/10/2006
Editor:
Here's a portion of what http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Amariah has to say about this name:
"Amariah" means "said by God" in Hebrew. It was commonly used as a name of priests in the History of ancient Israel and Judah. It appear several times in the Hebrew Bible..."
-snip-
Particularly since it was given as name for priests [who may have put aside their previous names to 'wear' this name], 'said' may mean "God has said" or "God has given prophecy".
http://www.20000-names.com/female_hebrew_names.htm indicates that
"Amariah" is a form of the female name "Amaris". See this information "Amaris: Hebrew name meaning "pledged by God" or "given by God." Variants include Amarisa, Amariah, Amarise, and Amarissa."
-snip-
The name "Amariah" is similar to the female name "Mariah" . http://www.weddingvendors.com/baby-names/meaning/mariah/ indicates that "Mariah" is an Egyptian female name that means "God is my teacher".
That meaning certainly conforms with the other meanings cited thus far.
However, the female name "Mariah" is probably a version of the name "Mary" {a Hebrew female name that is usually given the meaning "bitter", or given a meaning "from the water"; but that name has taken on a meaning of something like "one who is blessed, or highly esteemed" because it is the name of the mother of Jesus Christ.
See this interesting clip about the name "Mariah" from the website http://www.native-languages.org/wrongnames.htm {Native American Names That Don't Have The Meaning They're Supposed To}: "Mariah: Baby name books claim that this name means "wind" in some unspecified Native American language . This is theoretically possible, as there are many different languages and we do not know the word for "wind" in all of them. However, the source of this idea is almost certainly a Kingston Trio song from the 1950's, "They Call The Wind Mariah," in which the rain, wind and fire have the first names Tess, Mariah, and Joe. There are no Indians in the song; Tess and Joe are not Indian names and do not mean rain or fire, so in all likelihood Mariah is not an Indian name and does not literally mean wind either. It's probably one of many American variants of the name Mary or Maria."
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
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AMEENAH, AMEENA; AMINAH
http://www.ummah.net/family/fem.html {Arabic female names}:
Trustworthy, faithful
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
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AMIR; AMEER
Amir is an Arabic masculine name that means "Prince."
See http://www.ummah.net/family/masc.html for other Arabic names
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
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ANAIAH; ANAYA; ANIYA; ANIYAH
According to Teresa Norman's book "A World Of Baby Names" {Berkeley Publishing, revised & updated edition, 2003}, the female name Anaiah means "Jehovah has answered". That book also includes the information that Anaiah was born to a Jewish couple; the man helped the prophet Nehemiah build the ark of the covenant.
http://www.andythenamebender.com/name-meanings/Anaya.htm agrees with that origin & meaning for the name Anaya. That website gives this information: "Origin: Hebrew; Meaning: Variant of Anaiah: Answer of God; God answers."
In my opinion, the names Anayah, Aniyah, Aniya are contemporary versions of the name Anaiah. Btw, the names Anayah, Aniyah, Aniya are usually pronounced ah-NI-yah [with "NI" rhyming with the English words "by"; "eye", "cry" etc] .
For some reason, in the last few years, these names appear to be very popular among African Americans.
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
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ANAMIKA
I find the meaning of the name Animika very beautiful. I would like to find out any other names in Hindi, Sanskrit, Persian, Urdu, English or any Indian languages which have the same meaning. Thank you
-Aditi; 6/7/2007
Editor:
See http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Anamika "Anamika is a Sanskrit word meaning someone beautiful whose name is unknown. Anamika is a Sanskrit word meaning someone beautiful whose name is unknown. It may refer to:
Anamika, 1973 film
Anamika - Her Glorious Past, 2006 film/feature by Pavitra Chalam
Anamika is popular female name in the Hindu Religion. Anamika as such means someone with no name.
In Hindu tradition when a person is born a birth chart is created and accordingly the Alphabet for the name is chosen. Its believed that when a name is given to a child there is a predetermined qualities that develops in a person. In ancient Hindu literature Anamika means someone with no name & such a person has its individuality & destiny to be determined on her own. It's a feminine name mostly popular among Bengali's. 'A' means no, 'NAM' means name. It is generally seen the many people named Anamika have Artistic Talents."
-snip-
http://www.indiaexpress.com/specials/babynames/boy-a.html and http://www.behindthename.com/nmc/ind.php {Indian names} are two websites that provide the meanings of a number of names from the Sanskrit language.
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
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ANDAIYE
According to the book Baby Names; Real Names With Real Meanings for African Children {editors Tyra Mason & Sam Chekwas; Seaburn publishing; 1997},the female name Andaiye is from an East African language {Swahili?} and means "daughter comes home".
However, I asked a couple I know from Kenya who speak Swahili, and they said that they don't know that name, and they believe that the name Andaiye isn't really from the Swahili language. The "daughter comes home" name meaning may have come from the meaning of the name "Anaiah" [listed above] as God may have answered a couple's prayer for a daughter and therefore the couple may have said that the daughter came home to them. Of course, this is just speculation.
Also, see the entry for the name Ndaiye below.
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
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Anna-see the entry for Hannah below
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ANONA
This comment was also originally posted in the Mudcat Discussion Forum thread: http://www.mudcat.org/thread.cfm?threadid=93409&messages=9/
Is this name another source for the nickname Nonny? "Anona"- [is] "probably from "Annona", the Latin goddess of the annual yield of fruits or produce". [source: Winthrop Ames-What Shall We Name The Baby {Pocket Books, 1963; originally published in 1941] Fwiw [for what its worth], I've found older books on names have the meanings of more currently non-standard names than contemporary books.
See Nonny and Rhianna below for other names that use the nickname "Nonny".
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi; 7/31/2006
By the way, in Internet lingo, a "thread" is a series of comments on a specific topics. For more examples of Internet {blogging} terms, visit Cocojams' Blogging Terms page.
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ARHAM
I want to know the meaning of the word Arham.
-bhavin g.; 8/2/2008
Editor:
"Arham" is a male Arabic name that means "merciful". http://www.names4muslims.com/baby-boys.php?list=&name=%&page=4
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
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ARIANNE
I would like to know the meaning of my daughter's name Arianne. I know that it is a french name but I would like to know more. Thank you.
-Marie, 8/13/2006
Editor:
According to Bruce Lansky's The Best Baby Book In The World Wide
World {Meadowbrooks, 1984}, Arianne is a form of the Greek female name Ariadne, which means "the holy one". Lansky lists these other forms of the name Ariadne: Ariana, Arianna, Ariannie. Another print source, 4000 Names For Your Baby {Dell Publishing Company, 1966} also list "Arianne" as being of Greek origin from Ariadne. However, http://www.parenthood.com/babynames_searchresults.html?searchName=Arianne
says that Arianne is the Latin form of Ariadne. Ariadne is described as the Greek Mythological Ariadne who aided Theseus to escape from the Cretan labyrinth." What is the French version of Ariadne? According to http://www.behindthename.com/nmc/fre.php {Behind the names, French names} it is Arienne.
Marie, I hope your daughter will wear her name proudly.
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
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ADRIENNE
I want to know what my name mean Adrienne. And also what name means Spiritually Connected
-Adrienne; 8/24/2006
Editor:
http://baby-names.adoption.com/search/Adrienne.html has this information for the name "Adrienne":
Adrienne= Gender {female}; Origin {Greek, Latin} ; Meanings {rich, wealthy, dark one}
Similiar Names: Adria, Adrea, Adriana, Adrianna, Adrianne, Adreena, Hatria, Adri, Age
-snip-
Adrienne, you asked which name means "Spiritually Connected". There are many names that refer to God in many different languages. Click on any one of the hyperlinks to name websites that I have included on this page, and you're sure to find those names.
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes! Azizi
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ANAHITA
My daughter is named Anahita. I would love to know what this name mean. Thank you.
-Aditi ; 6/7/2007
Editor:
http://www.20000-names.com/female_a_names_4.htm : Anahita-Persian myth name for the goddess of fertility and water; meaning "immaculate"; this is also the Persian name for the planet Venus."
-snip-
The meaning of the female name Anahita is very similar to the meaning of "Aditi".
See http://www.farhangsara.com/names.htm#girls for additional Persian names
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes! Azizi
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ARABELLA, ARABELLE, ORABELLA, ORABELLE
where dose the name arabella come from origally
-frankie; 4/1/2008
Editor:
http://www.thinkbabynames.com/meaning/0/Arabella: "The girl's name Arabella \a-ra-bella, arab(el)-la\ is pronounced AIR-a-bell-ah. It is of Latin origin, and its meaning is "prayerful". From "orabilis". "
Also, see http://www.20000-names.com/female_a_names_6.htm: "Arabella - Italian female name, and Arabelle, French form of Arabella". Both mean "answered prayer"
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes! Azizi
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ARHAM
I want to know the meanings of the two names; Arham and Shayan kindly provide all the information available. Thanks.
umbreen; 3/12/1008
Editor,
Umbreen, see the meaning that I found for the name "Shayan" in the "S" section of this page.
See this meaning for the name "Arham" from http://muslimwoman.bloghi.com/2005/12/27/muslim-woman-muslim-names.html: Arabic, [gender] Boy, [meaning] Merciful
I also found this name on this website of Hindu male names: http://www.boygirlnames.com/boys-names-starting-with-a.htm "Arham Other name of Arihant Parmatma (Jain)" . "Arihant" is a Hindu name that means "one who has killed his enemies" and "Parmatma" is a Hindu name that means "highest or divine truth". Here's an excerpt from http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jainism about Jainism: Jainism, traditionally known as Jain Dharma (जैन धर्म), is one of the oldest religions in the world. It is a religion and philosophy originating in ancient India...Jains have significantly influenced the religious, ethical, political and economic spheres in India for over two millennia. Jainism stresses spiritual independence and equality of all life with particular emphasis on non-violence. Self-control (व्रत, vratae) is vital for attaining omniscience (Kevala Jnana) and eventually moksha, or realization of the soul's true nature.
A Jain is a follower of the Jina, or spiritual victor. Per ancient and contemporary usage, as well as dictionary definitions, a follower of Jain Dharma, or Jainism, is called a Jain.."
-snip-
Thus the name Arham is a powerful, spiritual name for a male. It calls on a person to be a merciful, fighter of those who are the enemies of the spirit.
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
Btw, Umbreen, I've found that your name is a female name, but I'm not been able to find its origin or meaning. I think it's Arabic or Hindu or Persian. I'd appreciate any information you or others could share with me and other Cocojam readers about your name.
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes! Azizi
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ARREDONDO
Hello , I would like to get the meaning for the last name Zambrano and also Arredondo. Thank You
Monica, 6/22/2008
Editor:
See information for the surname {last name} "Zambrano" under "Z" on this page. See this information for the surname {last name} "Arredondo": http://www.houseofnames.com/xq/asp.fc/qx/arredondo-family-crest.htm: Arredondo "first found in Castile, an important medieval kingdom in Northern Spain. Variations of this name include de Arredondo; Arredonda; Redondo, Redonda, Redondale; Rodo' and many more..."
-snip-
Also see http://members.tripod.com/~GaryFelix/index6.htm#Arredondo
'New Spain A to B; The following is a list of names found on public documents in Northeastern
Mexico before 1724: Arredondo - Spanish meaning "round" ; From the town of the same name in Ramales Cantabria"...
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes! Azizi
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ASHANTE, ASHANTAE
Hey, I was just wondering how to say this name. "Ashante" does it have the same sound as "A-shan-tay"?? And is that how u spell "Ashante" Can "Ashantae" and "Ashante" have the same sound as "A-shan-tay" thanks
-Tanea; 11/24/2008
Editor:
In the United States, different versions of contemporary personal names are usually the result of people wanting to change the way a name looks while keeping the way a name is pronounced. The main way you can change the way a name looks is to change its spelling. Other ways to change the way a name looks is to add another capitol letter at the beginning of the second syllable of a name, and/or to add a hypen, or an accent mark to the name.
In the United States, the second syllable of a name is usually the syllable that is pronounced. In writing how a name is pronounced, I capitolize the syllable that is emphasized. Therefore, the way that I would write the pronunciation of the name "Ashante" is "ah-SHAN-tay".
One way to come up with different versions of a name is to think about which name or names might have been the "base" {source} name for that name. There are two likely base names for the name "Ashante". The first name "Ashanti" is comes from the West African group name "Asante" which is pronounced "ah-SHAN-tee". This group name is not to be confused with the Swahili word for thank you that is spelled "asante". See the entry "Ashunti, Ashunti" below for more information on this name. The second possible "base name" for the name "Ashante" is the name "Shante" Contrary to my beginning statement, this name is usually pronounced "shan-TAY". The name "Ashante" could be spelled using some of the same contemporary spellings for the "Shaun" which I believe is the base name for the name "Shante". See the entry for the name "Shante" below.
Incidentally, the names "Ashante" {Ashante, Ashantae" etc.} and "Ashanti" are usually considered to be feminine names in the United States. Because these names are most often found among among African Americans than any other racial or ethnic group, you could say that they are "contemporary African American" names.
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
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ASHANTI, ASHUNTI
What does my name mean?
-Ashunti; 3/12/2007
Editor:
Ashunti is probably a version of the name "Ashanti" {ah-SHAHN-tee}. Ashanti is the name of a wellknown ethnic group {tribe} of people who come from Ghana, West Africa. See this excerpt from an online article about the Ashanti people of Ghana, West Africa http://www.africaguide.com/country/ghana/culture.htm :
"Ghanians come from six main ethnic groups: the Akan (Ashanti and Fanti), the Ewe, the Ga-Adangbe, the Mole-Dagbani, the Guan, and the Gurma...The Ashanti tribe of the Akan are the largest tribe in Ghana and one of the few matrilineal societies in West Africa. Once renown for the splendour and wealth of their rulers, they are most famous today for their craft work, particularly their hand-carved stools and fertility dolls and their colourful kente cloth. Kente cloth is woven in bright, narrow strips with complex patterns; it's usually made from cotton and is always woven outdoors, exclusively by men. The Ashante are part of the Akan tribes who speak various dialects of Twi. The language is very rich in proverbs, the use of which is taken to be a sign of wisdom.
-snip-
The ethnic group name "Ashanti" is also spelled "Asanti" or "Asante" but pronounced like "Ashanti"
As you can see in the excerpt that I've provided, that group name is also spelled "Ashante". Btw {by the way}, this word "Asante" is not the same as the word "asante" which means "thank you" in the Swahili language of East Africa & Central Africa.
I'm not sure what the ethnic group name originally "Ashanti" meant. Although it doesn't really mean "queen" or "beautiful African queen", perhaps you might want to give it that meaning, since the Ashanti people still have traditional kings and queens {though I believe that the queen mother {mother of the king} is more important than the king's wife}.
See this information from http://www.thinkbabynames.com/meaning/0/Ashanti
The girl's name Ashanti \a-shan-ti, ash(a)-nti\ is of Ghanaian origin. From the name of a powerful African empire (17th to early 20th century). Today, names associated with the empire bring to mind power and victory. The name is used as a surname by the Akan people of Ghana, and also in modern American black families as a link to the African past.
Ashanti has 15 variant forms: Asante, Ashanta, Ashantae, Ashantay, Ashante, Ashantee, Ashaunta, Ashaunte, Ashauntee, Ashaunti, Ashuntae, Shantee, Shanti, Shauntae and Shauntee.
-snip-
See the entries for the name Shante below for other possible origins & meanings of the female names Shaunte, Shante', Shanti etc.
The name Ashanti has gained in popularity because of the Grammy 2003 award winning Ashanti {Douglas}. For more information on the American R&B singer named singer Ashanti, click http://www.who2.com/ashanti.html
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
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ASIAMAH
do you know the meaning of the ghanaian name Asiamah?
-linda; 11/13/2008
Editor:
Linda, I'm sorry. I don't know the meaning of the Ghanaian name "Asiamah". Judging from the number of entries for this name that are found in Internet search engines, "Asiamah" appears to be a very common surname. Based on how Americans pronounce names, my guess is that "Asiamah" would be pronounced "ah-see-AH-mah", but I'm not sure how it is pronounced by Ghanaians. I have read that in Ghana it's usually easy to determine an individual's ethnic group from their surname {last name}. However, I don't even know which ethnic group the name "Asiamah" comes from. Also, with regards to Ghanaian last names, see this quote from this website about Ghana: https://sfxmiddle.wikispaces.com/Ghana?f=print "The Fanti tribe,[and] the Akan people who lived on the coast, was the first tribe to have relations with the Europeans. As a result, they absorbed British language, culture, and customs. Many of the Fanti people have British last names".
-snip-
It would be great if people would write to Cocojams and share information about what Ghanaian surnames mean as well as how these names are given... Here are two links that provide information about Ghanaian naming traditions: http://ghana-net.com/names_in_ghana.aspx and http://www.progenealogists.com/namingpatterns.htm#Ghana
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
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ASMERET; AZMERA
what does the name "Asmeret" mean?
-Langston ; 8/30/2007
Editor:
"Asmeret" is an Eritrean {Tigrinya language?} female name. I think that it means "unity". This is purely a guess based on the meaning of "Asmera" {the capital city of Eritrea, which is usually spelled "Asmara". See this excerpt about the literal meaning of that city's name: "Although it would be easy to think of Asmara, the Eritrean capital, solely as an Italian built colonial city, its origins actually reach back some 700 years. Originally, it is said, there were four clans living in the Asmara area on the Kebessa Plateau: the Gheza Gurtom, the Gheza Shelele, the Gheza Serenser and Gheza Asmae. Encouraged by their women, the men united the four clans and defeated the bandits who preyed on the area. After the victory, a new name was given to the place, Arbaete Asmara which literally means, in the Tigrinya language, "the four are united." [italics given for emphasis]. Eventually Arbaete was dropped and it has been called Asmara, though there is still a zone called Arbaete Asmara. Another legend tells that in this region the Queen of Sheba gave birth to the son of Solomon, Menelik I.
-snip-
See http://www.sf.airnet.ne.jp/ts/language/number/tigrinya.html for the Tigrinya word for "four"-
Also, I'm wondering if the name "Asmeret" is related to the female/male name "Azmera". See this meaning for Azmera from a number of sources including http://www.mybaby-name.com/babynames/gender/f/55 "Male and female name in both Amharic and Tigrinya languages of Ethiopia. It means 'harvest.' "
Note: I've guessed about the meanings I have posted for "Asmeret". I'd love for someone who knows about Eritrean and Ethiopian names to write in to confirm or correct this information. Also, I've noticed that a number of Eritrean/Ethiopian names end with "et". I'd love to know what that ending means, if anything.
Thanks!
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
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AASSABOUH
I would like to know the origins and the meaning of the following surname (last name): Assabouh. Would you please tell me, because no one knows and also no website mentions this last name
-Asmae ; 10/11/2006
**
I would like to know something more about the last name assabouh thank you
-SaSa; 6/4/2008
Editor:
I don't know what the origin & meaning is of the last name "Assabouh." "Assabah" is a region of southeastern Mauritania. "Assabah" is also the name of a daily Arabic language newspaper that is published in Morocco. It's very possible that "Assabouh" is related to the word "Assabah".
It's probably less likely that the name "Assabouh" is related to the Hebrew male name "Asa" which means "physician". I found mention of a similarly spelled surname "Assayag" listed on this site http://www.genealoj.org/ENtexte/page15.html. That site indicates that this name is among a number of North African trade or craft names that are not specifically Jewish. "Assayag" means "jeweller".
I encourage any Cocojams reader who may have information about the name "Assabouh" to share it with us. If I find out any information, I will post it here.
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
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AUGUSTINE
See this excerpt http://www.thinkbabynames.com/meaning/1/Augustine
"The boy's and girl's name Augustine is of Latin origin, and its meaning is "great, magnificient." Diminutive of August; English form of the Latin name Augustinus, which is itself a derivative of Augustus".
-snip-
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diminutive provides a definition of the term "diminutive".
When added to a name, the ending elements "ine", "ina", "ita", and "ito" form diminutives of those names. The suffixes "ie" and "y" also form diminutives {nicknames} of many "English" names.
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
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AVIS
Would you forward information regarding the meaning of the name Avis. Thank you,
-Avis; 9/2/2006
Editor:
See this information: http://www.2babynames.com/baby-girl-names.shtml
Avis {Latin}; meaning: a bird
-snip-
Think of the beauty of birds, the characteristics of different birds, and what birds symbolize, and you'll get a deeper understanding of the meaning of this name.
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
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AVION, AVIONES
Male or female name, possible from "The Aviones or Auiones (*Awioniz meaning "island people") were one of the Nerthus worshipping Germanic Tribes..."
-snip-
In that Wikipedia article the name Aviones is also given as "Eowan". The writer of that article indicates that "Mother Earth" is a translation for "Nerthus".
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
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AYAN
My son is named Ayan. I would love to know what this name means. Thank you.
-Aditi; 6/7/2007
Editor:
http://www.sarbadhikari.com/ayan/ayanmng.htm has a number of meanings from various cultures for the name "Ayan". Among those meanings are: "In Tamil: 'Ayan' is the name of Brahma, the Creator...'Ayan' in Turkish, means "obviously" or "clearly"...'Ayan' [Urdu/Persian.] with the last 'n' not pronounced fully... but half i.e. nasal tone sound..)... means something that is open and clear /something like : "something vividly clear on the face of it" or prima-facie...In Somalia 'Ayan' means "the lucky one". However, in Somali, 'Ayan' is the female form of the name, and 'Ayanle' is the male form...In Sanskrit this also means "Speed" in English or "Gati" in Hindi...Narayan - the Sanskrit word, is explained as Nara + Ayan = Narayan. ie.,Nara meaning human being and Ayan meaning the mirror. In essence it is the reflection of self - the soul"...
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
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AYANNA
"Ayanna" is an East African {Swahili?} female name which means "beautiful flower". "Ayanna" is also a Hindu {Indian} female name meaning "innocent" http://www.indianchild.com/hindu_baby_names_girls.htm
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
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AYESU
I would like to know the origin of the name Ayesu. I am very curious about it.
-Osei M. A.; 12/11/2008
Editor:
From glancing at the listings for this name in Google Search, it appears that the name "Ayesu" is frequently used as a surname {last name} and as a personal name in Ghana, West Africa and among people who are of Ghanaian descent who live elsewhere. Osei, since you wrote that you live in Ghana, you may be able to find the answer to your question easier than I can. If the name "Ayesu" does not predate the date that Christianity came to Ghana, it's possible that this name is a variant form of the name "Yeshu" {Jesus}.
"Jesus is the standard Greek translation of the common Hebrew name Yehoshua יְהוֹשֻׁעַ (Joshua)" Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Yeshu
-snip-
The male name "Joshua" means "Yahweh {God} is salvation".
Source: http://www.behindthename.com/name/joshua
-snip-
However, names are spelled or pronounced the same way or similarly may have completely different sources & meanings. I'm not sure if the name "Ayesu" has any connection at all with the Hebrew name male "Yeshu". If any Cocojams reader knows anything about the origin & meaning of Ayesu, lease share that information with us.
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
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AYINDE
The Yoruba [your-RU-bah} West African male name Ayinde is pronounced ah-YEN-day {or} eye-YEN-day. This name means "We prayed {to God} for him and he came".
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
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AYOJIRE
This Yoruba (Nigeria) name means "Joy wakens well". This name is formed by combining the Yoruba prefix "ayo" ("joy") with the suffix "jire" (awakens well)
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
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AZIZ
Aziz is usually considered to be an Arabic male name meaning "powerful". This name is also found in other languages. See this information from: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aziz :
"Aziz, originally a Syriac word and name, is also an Arabic name, and spans other areas such as Russia. Aziz may be translated into English as 'darling', 'dear one', or 'mighty one'. Al-Aziz is one of 99 name’s of god in the Islamic religion. Abdulaziz came from two words "Abdul" which mean slave of "alaziz" (Allah).
Aziz is a common name for people ranging from Assyrians to Kurds, and there are many famous people who went by the name Aziz.... The name Aziz is close in sound to the Hebrew name Isaac, but the two names are not of the same origin: Isaac comes from Hebrew Yitskhak, "he shall laugh," whereas Aziz is a cognate of Hebrew oz -"might," "strength," "power." It is also said that it derived from Arabic 'azza' meaning "to be powerful" or "to be cherished". Although now a rare name, Aziz is found over a vast geographical territory, spanning from Mediterranean areas to Europe and Asia, including Russia, Armenia, and others (such as New Zealand)"...
-snip-
For all those who have the name "Aziz", wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
****
AZIZI/AZIZA
Editor:
I received these two messages from Noushaba in Pakistan about my adopted name "Azizi":
"Let me tell you that your name is an Arabic word which is commonly used in Arab world as well as in Iran.It means 'the powerful' but it is also used to call a dear one, a brother or a sister as they call' ya azizi' to some dear one"
-Noushaba, 7/20/2006
"This is regarding your name which is an Arabic word meaning 'the powerful', generally used for a friend or a dear one in the Arab world and in Iran,
It is a beautiful soft word with deep meanings of dear relationship.."
-Noushaba, 7/21/2006
Editor:
Thank you for that information, Noushaba! I appreciated receiving a message on 5/2/2006from an Algerian sister named Azizi A___. who told me she has this name. I very much appreciate receiving information from you about what the meaning of the name "Azizi". A friend gave me this name in 1967. He told me that "Azizi" meant "one who is rare & precious} and that it was from the Swahili {Kiswahili} language of East & Central Africa.
The name Azizi is related to the Arabic male name Aziz. I've met a number of people who told me that "Azizi" is a male name.
http://www.thinkbabynames.com/meaning/0/Aziza indicates that Azizi is a variant form of the name "Aziza":
"The girl's name Aziza is pronounced ah-ZEE-zah. It is of Arabic, Swahili and Hebrew origin, and its meaning is "beloved; precious; mighty." Aziza has 2 variant forms: Azize and Azizi."
-snip-
Also, see the entry for "Azizi" from http://www.babynamesworld.com/meaning_of_Aziza.html "Gender: (female); Origin: Swahili, Turkish ; Meaning: precious"
-snip-
As I mentioned, "Azizi" isn't the first name that was given to me at birth. "Azizi" was given to me in 1967 by my [then] significant other. This is my "African free name". "African free name" is the term that was used in the late 1960s-mid 1970s or so to refer to those "African" names that were given to afrocentric African Americans or selected by afrocentric African Americans to be used in place of their "slave names". "African" here includes "Arabic" names. "Slave names" meant first and last names that were of European or Hebrew origin. By taking on traditional African names, Black Americans {and I'm sure other people throughout the African Diaspora} were demonstrating their pride in their African heritage.
This custom of taking African names was popularized during the 1960s and 1970s by famous Black jazz musicians such as Yusef Latif and Rashann Roland Kirk and by famous Black athletes such as Mohammed Ali and Kareem Abdul Jabar. It should be noted that many people who were given or selected African first names {including me}, retained their given or married last name which was usually of non-African descent.
It may also be of interest to folks here to note that, because Arabic names were more familiar to many African Americans than other names used in Africa, the majority of "African free names" and African names given at birth to African Americans are from the Arabic language. I believe that Swahili names are the second largest category of African free names and African names that are given at birth to African Americans. As it turns out, my name "Azizi" is KiSwahili.
Btw, most of the African Americans {including me} who have Arabic or Swahili names are not Muslims. But given the fact that Islam {and hence the Arabic language} first came to sub-Saharan Africa in the 7th centuries AD, I believe it is proper to say that Arabic names are "real" African names.
**
See the entry above for the male name "Aziz"
For all the those named Azizi, Aziza, Azize, or Aziz, I hope that we all will wear "our" name proudly!
Best wishes, Azizi.
****
BARAK, BARAKA, BARAKAH, BARACK
1. http://www.20000-names.com/male_egyptian_names.htm -"Baraka-Egyptian male name meaning blessing, gift"
2.http://www.ummah.net/family/masc.html & other sources: Arabic male name meaning "blessing"
-snip-
Barack is a variant form of this Egyptian name. I believe this name entered the Arabic language from the the Egyptian use of ba-ra-ka. Visit this web page for interesting reading on ba ra ka, the importance of names, and spirituality in ancient Egypt: http://www.hwt-hrw.com/Bodies.php
3.http://www.thinkbabynames.com/meaning/1/Barak: "The boy's name Barak \b(a)-rak\ is pronounced ba-RAHK, BARE-ek. It is of Hebrew origin, and its meaning is "flash of lightning". Biblical: a valiant fighting man who cooperated with the prophetess Deborah to win victory in a battle against overwhelming odds"
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi.
****
BASIM, BASEM, BASEEM
What does my name mean?
-Basem; 6/28/2007
Editor:
See http://bangladesh2000.com/baby/muslimboyname.html : Basim is an Arabic male name which means "Smiling, Happy"
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
****
BATINA, BATTINA, BETTINA, BETEENA, BETIANA, BETINA, BETTINE
What does Batina mean and what is its origin?
-Batina F.; 6/30/2008
Editor:
Batina, your name is probably a variant form of the female name "Battina". "Battina" is a form of the name "Bettina" which is a member of the large family of female names & nicknames that come from the Hebrew female name "Elizabeth". "Bettina" is a Latin female name of the name "Betty". The name "Bettina" is found in both the Spanish & Italian languages. See http://www.thinkbabynames.com/meaning/0/Bettina for mention of the name "Battina" and other variant forms of "Elizabeth".
Variant forms of a name that has an established meaning are usually given that meaning. See this excerpt from http://www.behindthename.com/name/elizabeth: "Elizabeth: From Ελισαβετ (Elisabet), the Greek form of the Hebrew name אֱלִישֶׁבַע ('Elisheva') meaning "my God is an oath" or perhaps "my God is abundance". The Hebrew form appears in the Old Testament where Elisheba is the wife of Aaron, while the Greek form appears in the New Testament where Elizabeth is the mother of John the Baptist".
-snip-
In contemporary times, the meaning "oath of God" is often given as "God is my oath". A person who is given as an oath to God is said to be consecrated or dedicated} to God. "God's promise" is another meaning that is given for the name Elizabeth and all the other names that are derived from it. All these meanings are connected because the belief was {is?} that if a child was given as an oath {dedicated, consecrated} to God, then, presumably, God would especially watch over that child. That child would therefore be blessed by God {more than other children}, and would therefore receive many of the material {economic} and spiritual blessings that God could bestow. Because she was blessed by God, a female named Elizabeth-or any of that name's derivatives-would live an abundant life, or as it's phrased in many Christian churches, she would live "life in abundance".
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
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BISI
Bisi (pronounced BEE-see) is an common element found in various Yoruba (Nigerian) names. "Bisi" means "joy" (brings joy). See the entry for the male/female name "Olabisi".
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
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BOLANIE; BOLAJI
Here's two Yoruba {Nigeria, West Africa} names for your collection: Bolanle {pronounced boh-LAHN-lay}, feminine meaning "born to wealth" and "Bolaji" {pronounced boh-LAH-gee] masculine meaning the same thing {"born to wealth"}."Bola" {BOH-lah} is the nickname for both of these names. There's more Nigerian names than this that include "Ola". These are just two of them.
-Bola; 8/26/2006
Editor:
Bola, thanks very much for that information. I had read that the element "Ola" means 'wealth" and/or "honor" in the Yoruba language. I appreciate you sending in these Ola names.
See the entry for the name Ola Mae on this page.
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BRANDY; BRANDI
I want to request information on the meaning of the name Brandi.
-Brandi; 6/11/2009
Brandi
I'd like to know what my name means, and a good nick name
-Brandi; 10/18/2006
Editor:
See this excerpt from http://www.thinkbabynames.com/meaning/0/Brandy: "The girl's name Brandy... is pronounced BRAN-dee. It is of English origin. The name of the distilled wine, which comes from the Dutch term "brandewijn", used as a given name"...
-snip-
One meaning for the name Brandy/Brandi could therefore be "a female who is alluring & stimulating" or "a female who has an intoxicating personality."
Also, see this excerpt from http://www.thinkbabynames.com/meaning/0/Brandy
"The girl's name Brandy is pronounced BRAN-dee. It is of English origin. The name of the liquor used as a given name, with contemporary variants. Also probably invented as a feminine version of Brandon. Brandi is also an Italian surname form of Brand, meaning "sword."
-snip-
One woman I know whose name is Brandy says it means "the intoxicating one" . That's intoxicating in the positive sense of the word meaning alluring and exciting. That meaning works for her, and it might work for you too! As to your question about a "good nickname", well, whether a nickname is "good" or not depends on you. I would suggest that you use your creativity and self-determination to come up with a nickname that you would like, best on the sound of your name or another name you like, or based on your personality or physical description. Of course, you can always change your nickname. And you can also change your first name {either informally or formally}. Besides all this, your family and friends may give you one or more nicknames that may "stick" for your entire life. But you also can have some control over this since-at a certain age-you can request or insist that you be called by the nickname or name that you prefer. Whatever nickname you choose, remember to wear it proudly!
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
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BRIANNA, BRIONNA; BRIONE; BRIE:
what does Brione name mean?
-Brione; 4/9/2007
Editor:
See http://www.thinkbabynames.com/meaning/0/Brianna: "The girl's name Brianna \b-rianna, bri(an)-na\ is pronounced bree-AHH-ah. It is of Irish, Gaelic and Celtic origin, and its meaning is "high, noble, exalted". May also possibly mean "strong". A contemporary feminine form of Brian, found occasionally in England since the 16th century. See also Brionna.
Brianna has 45 variant forms: Brana, Breanna, Breanne, Bree, Breeann, Breeanna, Breeanne, Breena, Bri, Bria, Briahna, Briana, Briand, Brianda, Briane, Briann, Brianna, Briannah, Brianne, Brianni, Briannon, Briauna, Briaunna, Brie, Brieann, Brieanna, Brienna, Brienne, Brieon, Brina, Briney, Brinn, Brinna, Briny, Bryana, Bryann, Bryanna, Bryanne, Bryauna, Bryn, Bryna, Brynna, Brynnan, Brynne and Breayanna"
http://www.thinkbabynames.com/meaning/0/Brionna: The girl's name Brionna \b-rionna, bri(on)-na\ is pronounced bree-AHN-ah. Variant of Brianna. Brionna has 5 variant forms: Brieon, Briona, Brione, Brionne and Bryonna. Baby names that sound like Brionna are Breonna, Brinna and Brienna.
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
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BROCK
Do you have the origin for the name Brock? All the references I can find only site it as meaning "badger", but one time I found it in reference to "brook" with some type of musical meaning. Can you confirm this? Thank you,
-Kimberly; 2/15/2007
Editor:
http://www.last-names.net/surname.asp?surname=Brock
provides this information: "Brock-From the Saxon Broc, a badger. Broch, in Gaelic or Irish, Cor. Br. and Welsh, has the same meaning".
-snip-
Of course, when the name "Brock" is also given as a personal name {usually masculine first or middle name} it has the same meaning.
http://www.princetonol.com/groups/iad/lessons/middle/animals2.htm provides this symbolic meaning for the badger "Supernatural power, mischief, playful. Other world, wisdom, caring".
See the meaning of the name Brook below.
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
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BROOK
http://www.thinkbabynames.com/meaning/0/Brooke "The boy's and girl's name Brooke \b-roo-ke\ is pronounced bruk. It is of Old English and Old German origin, and its meaning is "water, small stream". Also [given as] a surname."
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
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BRYAN; BYRON
See the entry for Brianna and Byronna
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BYRONNA
i want to know what my name means in different languages
-Byronna; 9/18/2007
Editor:
Bryonna, your name is a version of the name "Brianna". See the entry for that name and other versions of that name that are listed. All of these names mean "noble" or "strong" {or "noble" and "strong". Each of these names -and any other versions of these names that isn't listed-have that meaning regardless of because they all come from the Gaelic male name "Brian" {Bryon, Bryan}. Brian means "noble" or "strong." However, the question you may be asking is "What are some other female names in other languages that mean the same thing as Byronna?" There are certainly names in many languages throughout the world that have the same meaning as "noble" and "strong". However, I've chosen not to answer these types of questions since searching for those examples would overwhelm my ability to answer questions about the origin and meanings of specific names. I encourage you to look on this page, look on the websites whose links I have provided, and read baby name books to find examples of names in other languages that have the same meaning/s as your name.
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
**
Cocojams readers-Other readers have asked what their name means in other languages. There may be versions of a specific name in different languages. All of those versions have the same meaning. Take for example the Hebrew male name "Joseph". Three versions of that popular name in different languages are Jose' {Spanish}; Giuseppe {Italian} and Yusef {Arabic}. All of these names mean the same as the original Hebrew name-"God increases" {adds to the family by giving us a son}. There are male names in other languages which have that same meaning or a similar meaning. For instance, the Yoruba {Nigeria, West Africa} male name "Ayinde" {ah-YEN-day} means "we prayed [to God] for him and he came". This meaning is similar to the name Joseph. Yet it would be incorrect to say that Ayinde is the name Joseph in the Yoruba language. I hope this helps to clarify the distinction between names from different languages which have similar of the same meanings, and versions of the same name in different languages.
C,D
CANDACE; KANDACE; CANDICE; KANDANCE
What does my name mean?
-Kandance; 6/10/2008
Editor:
"Kandance" is a form of the ancient Ethiopian title for "queen". See this excerpt from http://www.thinkbabynames.com/meaning/0/Candace: "The girl's name Candace... is pronounced KAN-diss. It is of Ethiopian origin. Also possibly (Latin) "clarity; whiteness". An ancient hereditary title used by the Ethiopian queens before the fourth century, as Caesar was used by the Roman emperors. One of the queens is mentioned in the Bible." [the book of Acts]
-snip-
Also see this excerpt from http://blackhistorypages.net/pages/candace.php:
"In the kingdom of Kush (called Ethiopia by classical authors), particularly during the Meroitic period, women played prominent roles in affairs of the state, occupying positions of power and prestige, the natural outgrowth of which was the development of a line of queens. Unlike the queens of Egypt who derived power from their husbands, the Queens of Kush were independent rulers, to the extent that it was often thought that Meroe never had a king. Four of these queens—Amanerinas, Amanishakhete, Nawidemak and Maleqereabar—became distinctively known as Candaces, a corruption of the word Kentake. The word is a transcription of the Meroitic ktke or kdke, which means "queen mother."...
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
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CARISSA
does anyone know any nicknames for the name carissa apart from chris!!! please help!!!!!!
-Carissa; 8/19/2006
Editor:
Off the top of my head, I can think of "Rissa" ,"Cassie", and "Ree Ree". Others can probably think of other nicknames for the name "Carissa". Use your imagination & creativity and you can think of a nickname too. Of course, nicknames don't have to have anything at all to do with the spelling or sound of your "proper" name.
Here's some information about the origin & meaning of the name "Carissa":
from http://www.babynamesworld.com/meaning_of_Carissa.htmlGender: (female)
Origin: Greek ; Meaning: beloved
-snip-
This meaning is based on the view that "Carissa" comes from the name "Cara". Here's another opinion from: http://www.thinkbabynames.com/meaning/0/Carissa
"The girl's name Carissa is pronounced ka-RISS-ah. It is of Greek origin, and its meaning is "grace." Simplified spelling of Charissa, from Charis. Also possibly an elaborated form of Cara or Carys.
Carissa has 9 variant forms: Caresa, Caressa, Carisa, Carrisa, Carrissa, Charissa, Karisa, -Karissa and Kharissa."
-snip-
"Grace" here may have meant "God's grace {God's mercy}. "Grace" can also mean
'graceful' as in walking or dancing gracefully. The name Carissa can therefore mean "one who is beloved", and "God's grace, and "the graceful one"
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
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CARIENE
What is the meaning of the name Carlene?
-Susan S; 12/4/2006
Editor:
"Carlene" Teutonic {English/German} and French female form of the male name "Charles" {"Carl"; "Karl"}. The "ene" suffix is a diminutive ending for children that shows affection. "Charlene" is another form of this name. For more female forms of the name Carl {Charles} see the entry for the name "Carren" below. Also, see the entry for the name "Sharlene."
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
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CARREN
I would like to know about the name Carren but for a boy. Thank you.
-theresea; 11/17/2006
Editor:
See this information found in the website: http://forums.govteen.com/showthread.php?t=165742 :
"Carol: English unisex name. It is a nickname for French Caroline, the feminine form of Carolus, the Latin form of French Charles, which itself came from Old German Karl, meaning "man." Variants include Carel, Carey, Cari, Carla, Carleen, Carlene, Carley, Carlin, Carlina, Carline, Carlita, Carlota, Carlotta, Carly, Carlyn, Carlynn, Carlynne, Caro, Carola, Carole, Carolena, Carolin, Carolina, Carolinda, Caroline, Caroll, Carolyn, Carolynn, Carolynne, Carri, Carrie, Carroll, Carrolyn, Carry, Cary, Caryl, Caryll, Charla, Charleen, Charlena, Charlene, Charlotta, Charlotte, Charmain, Charmaine, Charyl, Cherlyn, Cheryl, Ina, Karel, Kari, Karla, Karleen, Karli, Karlie, Karlina, Karlinka, Karlote, Karlotta, Karole, Karolina, Karyl, Karyll, Karryl, Karryll, Kerril, Kerryl, Keryl, Lola, Loleta, Lolita, Lotta, Lotte, Lotti, Lottie, Sharleen, Sharlene, Sharline, and Sharmain."
-snip-
The movie star Cary Grant is a well known example in the United States of a man with a form of the name "Carol". Admittedly, many more American males nowadays are given the name Cary than are given the name Carol, or Carren. However, every version of the name Carol shares that name's meaning. Instead of the meaning "man/manly", the versions of this name which are usually given to females can be said to mean 'female or one who is feminine". Thank goodness, in a number of contemporary societies there is an expanded recognition that many attitudes & behaviors that were thought to be "manly' or 'feminine' are actually unisex.
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
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CASSIDY
Well, my name is Cassidy and I would love to have another name besides Cass!
What name should I choose?
-Cassidy
Editor:
If you are thinking of changing your name either informally or legally, than the decision about which name to select is yours to make or yours to give to someone else to make for you. I appreciate you asking me to select another name for you, but I respectfully decline that responsibility. If you are seriously thinking of changing your name, I would suggest that you choose a name that you like. You can find lists of names all over the place-including the names listed on this page and the names featured on the websites which have been referenced on this page. You have plenty of choices. You can take one of these names without making any changes to it. Or you can tweak the name you select, making spelling or other changes to suit you better. Or you can make up a name that you might like better than the name you were given at birth. Use your self-determination and your creativity. If you select a name, and find that you don't like it, than drop that name, and select another one until you find one that 'fits'. Obviously, I am speaking here of the informal use of a personal name and not a name that would become your legal name. I would certainly suggest you trying out your new name to see if it fits you for a time before legalizing it. Since in the USA anyway, it's easier to change nicknames than first names, perhaps you could think of this new name as a nickname, and ask folks to call you by your new nickname. Then if you really want to change your first name legally, after you have acclimated yourself to that name, you could do so. But I think that it is usually not wise to rush to legalize a new first name. Btw, if you decide to choose another name, the name you choose doesn't have to have the same meaning as the name Cassidy. But for your information, http://www.thinkbabynames.com/meaning/1/Cassidy gives the following information for the name "Cassidy":
"The boy's and girl's name Cassidy is pronounced KASH-ih-dee. It is of Irish, Welsh and Gaelic origin, and its meaning is "curly-headed; ingenious, clever."
Cassidy has 4 variant forms: Cass, Cassady, Cassedy and Cassidey.
For more information, see also the related name Kassidy".
-snip-
http://www.behindthename.com/php/view.php?name=cassidy has this information:
Cassidy; Gender: Feminine & Masculine; Usage: English ; Pronounced: KAS-i-dee
From an Irish surname which was derived from Ó Caiside meaning "descendent of Caiside". Caiside is a first name meaning "curly haired" from Gaelic cas.
-snip-
Cassidy is also a last name {surname}.
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
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CASHOR; CASHORPHE; CASHOR-PHE; CASTOR; CASTORPHY
Do you happen to known the meanign of Cashor-phe? It is a West African name-Sierra Leone specifically. Thanks in advance.
-Cashor; 4/27/2007
Editor:
My guess is that the name Cashor and Cashorphe {with or without a hyphen} is a form of the name "Castor". http://www.thinkbabynames.com/meaning/1/Castor gives this meaning for the name Castor:
"The boy's name Castor \c(a)-stor, cas-tor\ is of Greek origin, and its meaning is "beaver". In classical myth, along with Pollux, one of the heavenly twins immortalized in the constellation Gemini. They were considered the patron gods of seafarers, appearing to them in Saint Elmo's fire".
-snip-
The beaver is considered a symbol of hard work, determination, perseverance, and creativity in Native American, Canadian, and other cultures.
Although it's listed as a male name, the name Castor, in its original or revised form, could be given to females as well as males as a personal {first or middle} name. However, currently, the name Castor is most often found in English speaking countries as a last name.
So how could this name derived from the Greek language but used by English speaking people come to be given to a person from the West African nation of Sierra Leone? Well, people living in Sierra Leone have access to information about Greek mythology just as other people around the world do. It's possible that the name Castor could have been taken from Greek mythology and its spelling either purposely changed or changed over time. It's also possible that the name Castor or a variant form of this name could have been a last name that Black people in Sierra Leone remembered from the time when their ancestors lived in the USA or Great Britain before they came to Sierra Leone. I'm not sure. I'm guessing about the meaning of this name. I'll keep alert to any additional information or different information that I might find about the name Cashor and I'll post it here if I find it.
-Wear your name proudly. Best wishes, Azizi
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CARY- see the entry for Carren
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CEDONI
I really what to know what Cedoni actually means and if it really is from India
-Cedoni
Editor:
I also did a search of numerous books and websites on names to see if I could find the name "Cedoni" or a name similar to it {for instance, similar names spelled with "S" or Ch". I had no luck finding "Cedoni" this name in any listing of East Indian names. Since so many female and male East Indian names beginning with "C" or "S" actually begin with "Ch" or "Sh", it's doubtful that "Cedoni" is an East Indian name. I've not found the name "Cedoni" listed as an American Indian name either. But I did find "Cedoni" included in a 1997 listing of female names in the Canadian province of Alberta. The name "Cedoni" is also listed as an Italian last name.
It also occurs to me that the name "Cedoni" may have been derived from the ethnic name & place name "Macedonia". Among African Americans, "Macedonia" is a very common name for Baptist Churches. As to what "Macedonia" means, I'm not sure. The closest I could find was that the land was named after the Ancient Makedones (, [pronounced ‘makethnÉ’ (a as in about, e as in bet, É as ea in eat’)], a Greek-speaking people. Source: http://www.macedonian-heritage.gr/FAQ.html
I'm sorry that I could find no definitive answer for your question. But, it may mean that there is no established meaning for the name "Cedonia". If that's the case, you have been given the gift of an opportunity to be creative and come up with a meaning. Why not? Go for it!
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
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CELESTINE; CELESTINA
pls can you help me with the meaning of Celestine And Augustine. Thanks
-uju peace; 11/10/2006
Editor:
"Celestine" is a French and English form of the female name "Celeste". http://www.behindthename.com/php/view.php?name=caelestis provides this information for the name Celeste: root name-Caelestis; Gender: Masculine; Usage: Late Roman [Italian] ; from a Late Latin name which meant "of the sky, heaven"
-snip-
Also, see http://www.behindthename.com/nm/c2.php for information about the names Celestine, and Celestina. It's interesting to note that the name Celeste has changed gender. Although it started out as a masculine name, it is now almost exclusively a female name. The suffix {ending element} "ine" is a common French/English diminutive. A similar Spanish and Italian ending for female names is "ina" and "ita". These diminutives add the meaning "little dear one" on to the basic meaning of a name.
See the entry for the name "Augustine" above.
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
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CERISE
See the entry below for Cherise
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CHANDRA
http://utopianvision.co.uk/services/indian-names/?cat=&letter=C :
"male", meaning: Moon".
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
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CHANDRASHEKHAR
http://utopianvision.co.uk/services/indian-names/?cat=&letter=C :
"male, meaning: One who holds [the] moon in his hair knot.
-snip-
http://www.indolink.com/Library/boyName.html gives this meaning:
"Lord Shiva"
-snip-
Visit http://www.sanatansociety.org/hindu_gods_and_goddesses/shiva.htm for information on the Hindu god Shiva.
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
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CHANEE' ; SHANAE
I named my daughter Chenee'(Shanae)I just spelt it the way I wanted so it sounded more french like Renee'. Anyway I have found that it means God is gracious but I can't find a firm confirmation of it's origins, one site says it's American, another says it is hebrew same as Shana or associated to it and means year, change, study, teach, repeat, Rose , Lily. I would like a definate answer of it's origin and what it means. Thanks
-Shelley; 6/27/2008
Editor:
Shelley, I gathered from your message that you used your creativity to create the name "Chanee".
If you are American, that means that the name you created is a contemporary American name. The reason why some people might say that the name "Chanee" means "God is gracious" or that "it is Hebrew and means the same as Shana" is that the name "Chanee" is spelled like if not pronounced like the name "Shana" and "Shana" is a female form of the masculine name "John". See this excerpt http://www.behindthename.com/name/john "John-from English form of Iohannes, which was the Latin form of the Greek name Ιωαννης (Ioannes), itself derived from the Hebrew name יוֹחָנָן (Yochanan) meaning "Yahweh is gracious". -snip-
Shelley, newly created names have no established meanings. If you used your creativity to make up the name Chanee', then you can also use your self-determination to choose a meaning for this name. You could give the Chanee' any name you choose, although some people might thing it makes a lot of sense to consider Chanee' to be part of the huge family of John names, including the female names Shana, Jean, Jan, Jane, Janet, Joan, Joni, Joanna, and more {maybe also including Chanice}. In any event, I hope that your daughter wears her name proudly.
-Best wishes, Azizi
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CHANICE; SHANICE
What does the name Chanice mean, and where did it originate?
-Nicci , 2/16/2006
what does my name mean?
-Chanice; 5/2/2006; also 2/6/2007
Editor:
"Chanice" is a relatively modern female name that may have been created from the combination of the prefix "Chan" {pronounced "Chahn" and the suffix "ice" {pronounced "ees"}. This name may also be spelled "Shanice".
"Chanice" and "Shanice" are relatively newly created female names of American {probably African American} origin. I don't believe that these names have any fixed meaning. However, the names "Chanice" or "Shanice" may have inspired by number of older female names that do have fixed meanings. See the entries on this page for Chantal; Shan, Shaina, Shanice, and Shani.
If your name doesn't have any fixed meaning, you can choose whichever meaning you like the best or whichever meaning suits you the best. After all, that's what creativity & self-determination is all about!
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
****
CHANTAL; CHANTEL; SHANTEL
See this excerpt from http://www.thinkbabynames.com/meaning/0/Chantal:
The girl's name Chantal is pronounced shahn-TELL. It is of Old French origin, and its meaning is "stone." [stony place] Also possibly "singer"... {variant forms] Chantrell, Chauntel, Shantal, Shantalle, Shantel, Shantell, Shantelle, Shontel and Shontelle."
-snip-
Also see the entries for Shan and Sean.
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
****
CHANEL; SHANELLE
Chanel is a female name whose literal meaning has nothing whatsoever to do with its contemporary meaning.
See this information from http://www.thinkbabynames.com/meaning/0/Chanel :
"The girl's name Chanel is pronounced sha-NELL. It is of Old French origin, and its meaning is "pipe, channel." Contemporary usage of the French surname may be due to the influence of the legendary fashion designer Coco Chanel, and a number of famous perfumes."
-snip-
In spite of its literal meaning, the name Chanel has come to refer to luxury, expensive perfume and fashion. See this website: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chanel
In my opinion, the meaning of Chanel {Shanelle} can be given as "one who has good tastes, and or one who likes quality perfume, fashion, and surroundings.
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
****
CHARLES
See the entry for Sharlene; Sharline; Charlene; Charlynn
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CHASEY; CHASE
What do you think the name Chasey means?
-Chasey; 12/29/2006
Editor:
If you are male, the name "Chasey" probably is a form of the name "Chase".
See this information from http://www.thinkbabynames.com/meaning/1/Chase:
"The boy's name Chase is pronounced chayce. It is of English and Old French origin, and its meaning is "huntsman". [It is also a] Surname [last name], and originally a nickname for a huntsman.
-snip-
Whether you are male or female, it's also possible that the name "Chasey" is a blend of the name "Chase" and the name "Casey". See this information from http://www.thinkbabynames.com/meaning/0/Casey
"The boy's and girl's name Casey is pronounced KAY-see. It is of Irish and Gaelic origin, and its meaning is "alert, watchful". From the male Gaelic name Cathasaigh. Also variant of Cassie. Made famous by the song about the engineer of the Cannon Ball Express, Casey Jones. Caycee and Cacia are short forms of Acacia.
Casey has 33 variant forms: Cacey, Cacia, Cacie, Caisee, Caisey, Caisi, Caisie, Casee, Casi, Casie, Caycee, Caycey, Cayci, Caycie, Caysee, Caysey, Caysi, Caycie, Kacey, Kacie, Kacy, Kacyee, Kasey, Kaycee, Kaycey, Kayci, Kaycie, Kaysee, Kaysey, Kaysi, Kaysie, Kaysy and Kaysyee"
-snip-
While It doesn't appear that the name "Chase" and "Casey" came from the same source, these two names are compatible as a skilled hunter has to be alert & watchful.
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
****
CHAQUITA-see Saquita
****
CHERISE, CHARISE; SHERISE; SHARISE; CERISE
I believe that the female name "Cherise" was probably coined by African Americans as a modern way to spell the French female name "Cerise". The spelling "Cherise" {Charise; Sharise} is in compliance with the very popular "Sha" or "Cha" prefix {beginning syllable} for African American females and, to a lesser extent, for African American males. While African Americans don't usually consider name meanings when selecting a name for a baby, my sense is that the meaning that most people would prefer for the English female name "Cherise" is the meaning of the name "Cherie" {dear, darling} rather than the meaning for the French female name "Cerise" {cherry, red"}. See http://www.thinkbabynames.com/meaning/0/Cherise, and http://www.thinkbabynames.com/meaning/0/Cerise for thinkbabynames.com opinion about the origin of the name "Cherise".
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
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CHEYENNE
See the entry below for Shyan
****
CHICO
What does the name Chico mean?
-Nick; 10/24/2006
Editor:
Chico means "boy" in Spanish. "Chica" is Spanish for "girl". Chico is one nickname associated with the Spanish and Portuguese male name "Francisco". {"Cisco" is another nickname associated with that name]. Francisco is a form of the male Latin name "Francis". That name means "free". Therefore, the nation "France" means "land of the free". And the nickname "Chico" can be said to mean "a free man". However, the nickname "Chico" may not be associated in any way with the name Francisco. For instance, I know a man who was given this nickname because he is said to resemble the singer Chico DeBarge. Btw, the name Chico became more widely known in the USA as a result of the American television program Chico And The Man which was originally broadcasted from 1974-1978.
- Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
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CHIDI
Igbo (Ibo) Nigerian male name meaning "God exists" (That God exists is proven by the things He does) "Chi", "Che", and "Chuk" in the beginning of Ibo names refer to the Supreme God
Source: "Tyra Mason & Sam Checkwas: "Baby Names, Real Names With Real Meanings For African Children" ( New York, Seaborn Publishing; 1997; p.31)
Also see http://culture.chiamaka.com/IgboNames/igbonamesc.htm for a large (for the Intenet) sampling of Ibo names & their meanings
- Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
****
CHIDIKE
Igbo (Ibo) Nigerian name meaning "God is Stength"
Source: "Tyra Mason & Sam Checkwas: "Baby Names, Real Names With Real Meanings For African Children" ( New York, Seaborn Publishing; 1997; p.31)
- Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
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CHINELO
Igbo (Ibo) Nigerian male name meaning "Thought of God".
Chi" refers to the Supreme God; pronounced CHEE-neh-loh
Source: Ogonna Chuks-orji/edited with commentary by Keith E. Baird:"Names From Africa, Their Origin, Meaning, ANd Pronunciation" (Chicago, Johnson & Johnson Publishing Co; 1971; p.42)
- Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
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CHINYERE
Igbo (Ibo) Nigerian name meaning "God gives"
Source: "Tyra Mason & Sam Checkwas: "Baby Names, Real Names With Real Meanings For African Children" ( New York, Seaborn Publishing; 1997; p.32)
- Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
****
CHIOKE
Igbo (Ibo) Nigerian male name meaning "Gift of God".
Chi" refers to the Supreme God; pronounced CHEE-oh-keh
Source: Ogonna Chuks-orji/edited with commentary by Keith E. Baird:"Names From Africa, Their Origin, Meaning, ANd Pronunciation" (Chicago, Johnson & Johnson Publishing Co; 1971; p.42
- Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
****
CHINUA
Igbo (Ibo) Nigerian male name meaning "God's own blessing"
"Chi" refers to the Supreme God; pronounced CHEE-noo-ah
Source: Ogonna Chuks-orji/edited with commentary by Keith E. Baird:"Names From Africa, Their Origin, Meaning, ANd Pronunciation" (Chicago, Johnson & Johnson Publishing Co; 1971; p.42
- Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
****
CHINUE
Igbo (Ibo) Nigerian female name meaning "God's own blessing
"Chi" refers to the Supreme God; pronounced CHEEN-weh
Source: Ogonna Chuks-orji/edited with commentary by Keith E. Baird:"Names From Africa, Their Origin, Meaning, ANd Pronunciation" (Chicago, Johnson & Johnson Publishing Co; 1971; p. 9
- Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
*****
CHLOE; KLOE
Does the name Chloe' mean anything?
-Vicky; 8/16/2006
**
where does the name chloe originate from?
-frankie ; 4/1/2008
Editor:
See this information from http://www.thinkbabynames.com/meaning/0/Chloe
"The girl's name Chloe is pronounced KLOH-ee. It is of Greek origin, and its meaning is "blooming." From Khloe, originally used in the classical period to symbolize the fertility goddess Demeter. May be connected with Chloris. Appears in the Bible, and as a name in literature, especially in the tale of Daphnis and Chloe, set to music by Ravel. Adopted by Puritans in the 17th century...Chloe has 6 variant forms: Clo, Cloe, Cloey, Khloe, Khloey and Kloe."
-snip-
In this context, "blooming" refers to grass and flowers that start to grow & bloom in the spring time. "Chloe" is therefore a name that stands for spring time, hope, life, and new beginnings.
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
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CHUKWUMA
Ibo (Nigerian) male name meaning "God knows best"
http://culture.chiamaka.com/IgboNames/igbonameschu.htm.
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
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CHUMA (CHUKWUMA)
1. Ibo (Nigerian) nickname for Chukwuma; a male name meaning "God knows best"
http://culture.chiamaka.com/IgboNames/igbonameschu.htm.
2. Shona (Zimbabwe) male name meaning "wealth, beads"
Source: Ogonna Chuks-orji/edited with commentary by Keith E. Baird:"Names From Africa, Their Origin, Meaning, ANd Pronunciation" (Chicago, Johnson & Johnson Publishing Co; 1971; p.43)
- Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
****
CHUWUEMEKA (nickname Emeka)
Ibo (Nigerian) male name meaning "God did/has done something great or wonderful. God has dealt kindly with us. Also, God, we thank you"
http://culture.chiamaka.com/IgboNames/igbonameschu.htm
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
****
CIANI; KIAN; KIANI; KIONI; KEENE; KEAN; KEANE
Does any one know how to pronounce the Irish name Kioni?
-lynsey
Editor:
lynsey, I'm going to begin by repeating what alpha gave you on this site: http://answers.yahoo.com/question/index?qid=20081102105119AAJyz64:
"This is not an Irish name as there is no letter K in the Irish language. I see in some sites that it is said to be a variant of the name 'Kian' meaning 'Ancient'. Even this name 'Kian' is an anglicised version of the name 'Cian', a boys name pronounced 'Keen'. So going by that the pronunciation of 'Kioni' might be 'Keeny' but I think would sound better as 'Keo-nee'"
-snip-
While "Kioni" is not technically an Irish {or Gaelic} name, if it's a new form of the Irish name Cian, and if {for instance} the person having that name is American, you can say that Kioni is a "contemporary American form of the Irish name 'Cian' by way of its variant form 'Kian'. Even though Kian is a male name, Kioni could be either a male or female name. If Kioni is a form of Cian {Kian}, you can say that it has the same meaning as those names. See this information about the name Cian from http://www.thinkbabynames.com/meaning/1/Cian:
"The boy's name Cian \cian\ is pronounced KEE-an. It is of Irish and Gaelic origin, and its meaning is "ancient". Name of Brian Boru's son-in-law, who played a major role in the battle of Clontarf (11th century). Variants are Anglicised forms. Cian has 3 variant forms: Kean, Keane and Kian".
-snip
In my opinion, the name "Kioni" could be pronounced "kee-ON-nee" or "kee-OH-nee" or "kee-YAH-nee". There's really no right or wrong way of pronouncing newly formed names. The choice is up to the person who has that name.
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
****
CIARA; KIERRA; CIERRA; SIERRA
See this information from http://www.rampantscotland.com/forenames/blnames_c.htm:
"Ciara: From the Gaelic word "Ciarán" meaning "little dark one" the name has been popular for 1,500 years as the male first name Kieran and its variants but the feminine form Ciara (pronounced 'keera') has become popular in recent times and was the 85th most popular given name in 1998 but dropped out of the top 100 in 1999.
-snip-
See this information from http://members.tripod.com/ciara_n/ciaraworld/
The name Ciara is generally ancient Celtic. It is taken from the old Gaelic word "kir", meaning black (as in the night). The male version of Ciara is Ciaran, which is the early form of Kevin...
"Ciara is pronounced "Kyr-ra".
****
Also, see this information from http://www.thinkbabynames.com/meaning/0/Ciara :
"The girl's name Ciara \cia-ra\ is pronounced kee-ARR-ah, see-ARR-ah. It is of Irish and Gaelic origin, and its meaning is "black". Modern coinage. Feminine form of Ciaran, the name of two major Irish saints...
Ciara has 11 variant forms: Ceara, Chiara, Ciaran, Ciarra, Cieara, Ciera, Cierra, Kiara, Searra, Siara and Sierra."
-snip-
With regard to name meanings, "little dark one" or "black as night" or black probably usually refers to hair & eye color rather than dark skin color. However, in my opinion, the name alludes to the fact that black is beautiful.
For an alternative origin & meaning of the name Cierra {pronounced see-AIR-rah and not KEER-rah}, see the information on the name Sierra below.
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
****
CONDOLEZZA
This female name comes from the Italian con dolcezza: "with sweetness."
****
COREY
trying to figure out he origin and meaning of my birth given name , Corey
-corey, 2/27/2008
Editor:
Corey is usually given as a masculine name. However, in the USA, at least, it is also given to females. Origin {Gaelic, meaning Irish, Scottish}; Meaning " a person who lives by a hollow or misty stream} Sue Browder's The New Age Baby Book :
"The name Corey is also given the meaning: "a person who lives near a ravine." See this meaning for ravine: {Old French} A deep narrow valley or gorge in the earth's surface worn by running water.
[note: I have also seen the meaning "raven" given, but this probably is a misinterpretation of the word "ravine"] .
Variant forms of Corey are usually given as Cory, Cori, Korey & Korrey.
Also see this information from http://www.babynamebox.com/c0020.htm: "Corrianne-Variant of Cory meaning variously: from the round hill; seething pool; ravine. Female; Irish"
-snip-
However, the female name "Corinna" is almost always given a different origin & meaning than Corey. See that entry below.
-Wear your name proudly. Best wishes, Azizi
****
CORRINA; CORRINE; CORINE
information from http://www.behindthename.com/php/view.php?name=corinna :
Gender: Feminine; ..Pronounced: ko-REEN-a ; From the ancient Greek name Κοριννα (Korinna), which was derived from κορη (kore) "maiden". This was the name of a Greek lyric poet of the 5th century BC. Also, the Roman poet Ovid wrote love poems about a woman named Corinna "
-snip-
"Maiden" here means "a young woman". Some variant forms of Corinna are "Corina", "Coreen" & "Corine."
****
DAMIAN; DAMION
http://www.behindthename.com/php/view.php?name=damian :
Gender: Masculine; Usage: English, Polish
Pronounced: DAY-mee-an (English), DAHM-yahn (Polish)
"From the Greek name Δαμιανος (Damianos) which was derived from Greek δαμαω (damao) "to tame". Saint Damian was martyred with his twin brother Cosmo early in the 4th century. They are the patron saints of physicians. Another saint by this name was Saint Peter Damian, an 11th-century cardinal and theologian from Italy."
****
A contemporary version of the meaning "to tame" could be "the civilized one" or "one who is civilized {in manners and outlook on life".
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
****
DAMARION; DEMARION
In my opinion, the names Damarion and Demarion are masculine names which are of contemporary African American origin. Demarion may be pronounced the same as Damarion {day MAHR-ee-ohn}. Or Demarion may be pronounced dee-MAHR-ee-ohn}. In my opinion, both of these names probably owe their creation to the name Omarion {see the entry for that name on this page}. The name Damarion was probably created by rhyming the name Omarion. Demarion can be said to be a variant of Damarion. The meaning of Damarion and Demarion can be given as a combination of the meanings for Damion and Omari: "The civilized one, the first son, one who will have long life; one who is eloquent, one who follows the most high God."
See the entries for both of those names on this page.
****
DANAE; DANAY
http://www.zelo.com/firstnames/findresults.asp?name=DANAE :
"Gender: Female; Origin: Greek; Meaning: Showered With Gold"
-snip-
Danae is the name of the mythological mother of Perseus by Zeus.
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
****
DANTE; DONTE; DONTAE; DONTAY
See this information from" http://www.thinkbabynames.com/meaning/1/Dante The boy's name Dante is pronounced DAHN-tay. It is of Spanish, Italian and Latin origin, and its meaning is "lasting, enduring...Dante has 7 variant forms: Dantae, Dantay, Dantel, Daunte, Dontae, Dontay and Donte."
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
****
DAIJAH; SASHA; SAYSHA; DAJAH
What does my name mean?
-Daijah; 5/24/2007
Editor:
"Daijah" is usually pronounced "DAY-shah". This name may be a contemporary form of the name "Dasha" Shah" . According to http://www.foreigndocuments.com/a9_1.html, Dasha {Darya} is a female name of Persian King Daria. The name comes from the old Persian and means "the winner."
-snip-
http://www.thinkbabynames.com/meaning/0/Dasha indicates that Dasha is a form of the female name Dorothy. "The girl's name Dorothy \d(o)-ro-thy\ is pronounced DOR-a-thee. It is of Greek origin, and its meaning is 'gift of God'."
The name "Daijah" may also be related to the Hebrew male name "David". David is usually said to mean "beloved" or "beloved of God". Any, some, or all of these name meanings may be used as the meaning of the name Daijah.
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
****
DEMETRIA; DEMETRA
http://www.20000-names.com/female_d_names.htm: "Greek myth, name of goddess of agriculture,
derived from Doric Damater meaning "earth mother"
-snip-
Also see this information from http://www.thinkbabynames.com/meaning/0/Demetria : "The girl's name Demetria \d(e)-met-ria, dem(e)-tria\ is pronounced da-MEE-tree-ah. It is of Greek origin. Feminine form of Demetrius. Greek mythology: Demeter was the goddess of corn and harvest, and mother of Persephone. Her Roman name is Demetrius, from the root word for "cereal".
Btw, Demi is one nickname for the name Demetria.
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
****
DEEPA; DEEPTA; DEEPTI
"Deepa" is an Indian {India} female name whose meaning is usually given as "lamp". The meaning of the Indian female name "Deepta" is usually given as "shining". The meaning of the Indian female name Deepti" is usually given as "flame, lustre".
Here are three online sources for Indian names that include a number of female names that are similar to Deepa, Deepta, and Deepti: http://www.pickbabynames.com/Indian/D/Deepa.html and http://www.iloveindia.com/babynames/girl-d.html and http://www.nriol.com/babynames/gdd.asp
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
****
DENEE; DENEEN; DENISE; DENYCE
What does my name mean?
-Denee; 5/29/2007
Editor:
If the name Denee is pronounced den-NAY, then that name could be a modern name that was formed by substituting a "D" for the "R" in the French female & male name "Renee" {pronounced ren-NAY}.
Renee's meaning is "reborn". If the name "Denee" came from the name Renee it could be given the same meaning as that name. However, in actuality, Denee probably doesn't have any fixed meaning.
Denee may have been created from the French female name "Denise". See this information from http://www.thinkbabynames.com/meaning/0/Denise : "The girl's name Denise \d(e)-ni-se\ is pronounced de-NEES. It is of French origin, and its meaning is "follower of Dionysius".
-snip-
"Denis" is the male form of the name "Denise". In Greek mythology, Dionysus, the son of Zeus, was the god of wine & ecstasy. A modern meaning for the names Denise, Denis and possibly Denee is "one who likes to have fun".
It's also possible that the name "Denee" is a variant form of the English female name "Deneen". According to http://www.babynamecorner.com/babynames/d/24/ ,the name Deneen is a form of the English female name "Deana" and means "divine". The name Denee (and the name Deneen) could also be a form of the name "Dena". http://www.babynamecorner.com/babynames/d/24/ indicates that "Dena" is a Hebrew female name which means "judged" or "avenged". That same website also indicates that "Dena" is an English female name which means "valley".
These are only a few of the names that are spelled like the name "Denee". You have the freedom to select one or more of these name meanings as the meaning of your name, or choose another meaning that you fits you better.
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
****
DELE
"Dele" (pronounced DAY-lay) is a common element in male/female Yoruba (Nigeria) names.
"Dele" means "reached his (or her) home. Example: Ogundele -(the orisha Ogun has reached his home [in the sense that the newborn takes on the attributes of that orisha (god) ].
- -Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
****
DESPEREAUX; DEVEREAUX
hi! its my friends name...what does Despereaux mean?
-Sarah ; 11/20/2007
Editor:
"Despereaux" is the name of the main character in Kate DiCamillo's award winning children's book "The Tale of Despereaux". In Kate DiCamillo's book, a brave mouse named Despearaux does not despair. He has a number of adventures and triumphs in the end of the story. See http://www.movieweb.com/movies/film/11/4511/synopsis.php for a summary of the plot of this book.
Since that book was written in 2003, unless your friend is very young, it is unlikely that he {I am assuming that your friend is male} got his name from this book. I thought this name was coined {created} by that author from a combination of the word "despair" and a form of the suffix "eau" {aux}. The definition for despair as given by http://www.thefreedictionary.com/despair is " the feeling that everything is wrong and nothing will turn out well". The meaning of "eau" is "water: Thus this name literally means "watery despair". Since water is associated with emotions, this name can be said to mean "emotional despair".
However, Sarah, I'm wondering if your friend's name is a actually a variant {form of} the name "Devereux". http://www.searchforancestors.com/surnames/origin/d/devereux.php indicates that "Devereux" is a surname {last name} that is of French origin. This name was originally written as "D'Evereux" and is a place name [a name associated with a geographical location} that means " from Evereux, a town in Normandy."
The last name Devereux can also be given a first name. http://www.thinkbabynames.com/meaning/1/Devereux gives this information about this name: "The boy's name Devereux \d(e)-ve-reux\ is of Old French origin. Probably a place name having to do with water "eau", or related to Everard (Old English) "board hardness".
-snip-
I would translate "board hardness" as {a male who is} strong [as a board]. So, the names "Devereux" and Despereaux may be said to mean "a person who is strong and a person who overcome odds to succeed in life".
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
****
DESSIE ; DESE; DESSYEH
1.Amharic language (Ethiopia) name meaning "My joy"; from the about the city and administrative subdivision of Dessie located in north-central Ethiopia. capital of the capital of Wallo province (see History section of http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dessie)
2. Irish male nickname (Des; Dessie) from the name "Desmond"; Desmond means "one from Desmond," Desmond being an area of South Munster, one of the four provinces of Ireland" http://www.babynamesofireland.com/pages/boy-names-c-d.html
3. Latin female name from the word "Desiderata" meaning "the desired one" ("one who is desired"; "the child who is wanted")
http://www.babynamer.com/dessie
4. alternate Ethiopian meaning "blessed one" (Source-an African American woman who has that name and was named after her aunt)
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
****
DESTA
Amharic (Ethiopian) female ame "joy" or "happiness"
See "Dessie" above. Also see this list of Ethiopian names-http://www.aacasa.org.au/Adoption05.htm#Girls
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
****
DEV
Dev is a masculine Indian name which is derived from Sanskrit देव (deva) meaning "god". This name is usually used in combination with another name which proceeds it. See Rajeev below.
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
****
DEVON; DEVIN; DEVONTE; DEVONTAY; DAVON DAVONTE; DAVONTAY
http://www.thinkbabynames.com/meaning/0/Devon: "The boy's and girl's name Devon is pronounced DEV-en. It is of Old English origin. Place name: a county in England noted for its beautiful farmland. Devin may be considered a variant".
-snip-
See http://simple.wikipedia.org/wiki/Devon for information about the county of Devon. Also, see http://baby-names.adoption.com/search/Devon.html for this alternative meaning of the name Devon:
"Name: Devon; Gender-female; Origin- Old English; Meaning- defender; Similar names: "Devin"
-snip-
In my opinion, the names Devonte, Devonte', and Devontay are contemporary male {usually African American} forms of the name Devon. Devonte, Devonte', Devonte may either be pronounced dee-VON-tay or dah-VON-tay. The names "Davonte, Davonte', and Davontay are other familiar variants of this name. In my A "Day Day" is a common nickname for the male name Davonte. In my opinion, these names can be given the same meaning as the name Devon or Devin even if they are pronounced day-VOn-tay.
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
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DIVINA
I wish to know about the following names, their meanings and so forth. Divina, Patrina, and Fiona. Please inform me the definitions, along with history of the names. Thank you.
-Phang; 9/ 25/2006
Editor:
Divina is a female name of Latin origin which means "Divine one". See the origins & meanings of the other names under the first letters of those names.
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
****
DOLORES; DELORES
I'm just asking what is the meaning of dolores!!!! pls!!!!!! response!!!!
-Dolores E.
Editor:
http://www.behindthename.com/nmc/eng5.php: "Dolores [gender-female; origin: Spanish, English
Means "sorrows", taken from the Spanish title of the Virgin Mary María de los Dolores, meaning "Mary of Sorrows".
-snip-
"Delores" is a form of the name "Dolores". Because "Dolores" originally referred to Mary the mother of Jesus, it was considered to give protection and good fortune to any female who was given that name.
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
****
DONALD
See the entry below for Maldonado
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DOREATHA; DOROTHY
http://www.thinkbabynames.com/meaning/0/Dorothy : "The girl's name Dorothy \d(o)-ro-thy\ is pronounced DOR-a-thee. It is of Greek origin, and its meaning is "gift of God". Theodora is its synonym...
Dorothy has 41 variant forms: Dasha, Dasya, Dodie, Dody, Doe, Doll, Dolley, Dolli, Dollie, Dolly, Doortje, Dora, Doretta, Dori, Dorika, Dorinda, Dorit, Dorita, Doritha, Dorlisa, Doro, Doronit, Dorota, Dorotea, Dorotha, Dorothea, Dorothee, Dortha, Dorothée, Dorrit, Dorthea, Dorthy, Dory, Dosha, Dosya, Dot, Dottey, Dottie, Dotty, Tea and Thea"
--Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
****
DWAYNE
a lot of people where i live has my name i dont know what it means
-Dwayne; 11/22/2006
Editor:
http://www.behindthename.com/nmc/eng5.php has this information "Dwayne"- English, Irish; Anglicized form of the Gaelic name Dubhan which means "little and dark", derived from dubh "dark, black" combined with a diminutive suffix."
-snip-
In this context, "dark" may refer to hair and/or eyes instead of skin complexion.
http://www.thinkbabynames.com/meaning/1/Dwayne includes this information:
"Dwayne has 8 variant Dwayne has 8 variant forms: Dawayne, Dewayne, Duane, Duwain, Duwayne, Dwain, Dwaine and Dwane.
Dwayne is a very popular male first name, ranking 256 out of 1219 for males of all ages in the 1990 U.S. Census. "
-snip-
thinkbabynames.com also notes that the name Dwayne could be a male or a female name.
Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
E,F
EDANTE
What is the meaning of the name Edante. My family is from Haiti (Cayes)and my given name is Edante. The closest that I have found to it is the male form Dante but I am not convinced that it is the right root of the name. Others have referred me to an old name "Edana"... any ideas? What does my name mean? Please help. Thanks,
-Edante; 11/26/2006
Editor:
Edante, my guess is that your name is a contemporary version of the name "Edan". I'm wondering if you pronounce it e-DAN-tay with "dan" rhyming with the word "ran". See http://www.name-meanings.com/name-meanings/e.php for information on the name Edan: "Meaning-"Full Of Fire"; Gender- M; Origin-Celtic/Gaelic". That same website indicates that the name "Edana" is a Gaelic/Irish female name meaning "tiny flame".
-snip-
"Tiny" here probably means small in size due to the person being a young child.
http://babyfit.sparkpeople.com/baby-names-detail.asp?name=Edan also gives similar information for the name "Edan" :" Gender: Boy; Origin / Heritage: Celtic; Meaning: flame, fiery".
-snip-
You didn't indicate what your gender is. Some names are unisex. Some females are given names that are generally considered male names, and some males are given names that are generally considered female names.
"Fire" and "flames" are symbols of energy, life, the creative spark, remembrance of those who have died, knowledge and truth.
If "Edan" is indeed the source of your name, then the suffix {ending} "te" {"tay"; "te'} could have been added to make that name more unique. "Te" has no established meaning, but for reasons that I can't ascertain, "te" has become a popular suffix ending for certain contemporary African American male names. See the entries for the names "Davonte" and "Javonte" listed on this page for other contemporary male names with this suffix ending.
Of course, it is possible that your name is a form of the name Dante or have an entirely different source and meaning. However, see the entry for Dante name on this page.
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
****
EDRICKA
What does my name mean?
-Edricka W.; 2/8/2007
Editor:
"Edricka" is probably a contemporary form of the name "Erika" {"also written as "Erica"}. http://www.mybirthcare.com/favorites/pg16/baby-names-e.asp provides these meanings for the name "Erika": "Feminine form of Eric; Origin-Norse; Meaning: Ever or eternal ruler. Island ruler. Famous bearer: 10th-century Norwegian explorer Eric the Red,1504.; "Erika :Origin-Scandinavian; Meaning: Ever kingly. {forever king}; Feminine of Eric."
-snip-
I have also seen the name Erica {Erika} given the meanings "honorable ruler and "complete ruler" and
The spelling of "Edricka" may also mean that this name is a blend of the masculine name "Edward" and a clip {portion} of the name Erika". Edward is also a royalty name. http://www.thinkbabynames.com/meaning/1/Edward indicatres that "The boy's name Edward ,,,is pronounced ED-werd. It is of Old English origin, and its meaning is "wealth protector". Used in the royal family by kings of England (including the saint Edward the the Confessor) since before the Norman Conquest."
-snip-
Btw, both the "c" and the "k" were probably added to give the name nore uniqueness. A girl given the name "Edrika" or a similar spelling may have a father whose name was Edward or "Edwin" or some other name beginning with that Ed sound. Or a girl with that name may have a mother whose name is "Edwina" and a father whose name is "Erica". The name "Edrika" or "Edricka" is thus a blend of both parent's first names and symbolizes the connection and bond the child has with both of her parents.
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
****
ELIZABETH
I have a baby girl recently. I am a muslim. So, naturally I like a muslim name or a name that has a nice meaning. Would you please tell me about the name "Eliza" and "Erina" in this regard...
Thank you.
- Nasir; 9/17/2006
Editor:
Congratulations, Nasir, on the birth of your baby girl! See the entry for "Erina" below. Also see these websites for lists of Arabic female names:
http://www.el-shella.com/kids/FemaleArabicNames.htm
http://www.sudairy.com/arabic/fem.html
"Elizabeth" is a Hebrew female name which means "consecrated [dedicated] to God". While Elizabeth isn't unique or non-standard {in the USA}, some of its nicknames are. See this list of names for Elizabeth from http://www.babynamenetwork.com/detail.cfm?name=Elizabeth&gender=female
"Alternatives [Variants]:
Eilis; Elisa; Elisabeth; Elise; Elissa; Elsa; Else; Elsie; Elspeth; Elysa; Elyse; Elyssa
Nicknames: Bess; Bessie; Bessy; Beth; Bethan; Betsey; Betsy; Bette; Bettie; Bettina;
Betty; Buffy; Ella; Elsie; Libby; Lili; Lisette; Liz; Lizette; Lizzie; Lizzy; Lysette; Bet"
-snip-
Another nickname for Elizabeth is Leeza. See my comment under that name.
There are probably Arabic names and names from other languages in the world that also mean "dedicated to God". Whichever name you have given or will give to your daughter, may she wear it well. Btw {by the way}, I've provided some information about the name "Nasir" on this page. Best wishes, Azizi!
****
ERICA; ERIKA-see the entry for Edricka
****
ERIN; ERINA
Erin is a female or male name. Most sources indicate that the meaning of the name "Erin" is "poetic name for Ireland". See this information from http://www.thinkbabynames.com/meaning/0/Erin:
"The boy's and girl's name Erin is pronounced AIR-en. It is of Gaelic origin. Poetic name for Ireland. Erin has 7 variant forms: Erienne, Erina, Erinn, Erinna, Erinne, Eryn and Erynn."
-snip-
http://baby-names.adoption.com/search/Erin.html provides this information:
Erin female Celtic/Gaelic peace, western island Errin, Erinne, Eryn, Erynn, Erinna, Erynna
Also see this excerpt from http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Erin :
"Erin is an anglicization of Irish/Gaelic Éirinn, the dative case of Éire, the Irish word for "Peace"...
The etymological history of the word as it drifted throughout the Gaelic region gave rise to its use by the early Scots to both mean "Ireland", as well as "West", as Ireland lay to the geographic west of Scotland... Erin is a popular modern name for girls, alternatively spelled as Eryn, Erynn, Eirinn, Aeryn, or otherwise. It also contributed to many surnames, as well, for example "Erin-Vienne" (West Man/Irish Man) gave rise to the surnames of Irving, Irvine, Ervin, Irwin, Eryvine, Ervyne, etc. There are over 200 known derivations of that particular root, alone."
-snip-
Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi.
****
ERMEK; ERMAK; ERMOLAI; YERMOLAI
Do you know the meaning of the name Ermek? It is a boy name from Kyrgyzstan. Thanks
-Gen Collingham ; 5/10/2007
Editor:
The masculine personal name "Ermek" may be a form of the Russian patronymic name "Ermak" . A patronymic name is a last name based on one's father's name. See this information from:
http://www.doukhobor.org/Molokan.htm#E: "Ermakov [is a] patronymic name derived from Ermak {pronounced Yermak} a diminutive form of the name Ermolai {pronounced Yermolai} English spelling variants Ermakoff, Ermacoff, Yermakoff"
-snip-
http://www.behindthename.com/nmc/rus.php for Russian names indicates that the male name Ermolai is a variant form of the name "Yermolai". The name Yermolai is the Russian form of the Greek name "Hermolaos". And http://www.behindthename.com/php/view.php?name=hermolaos gives this information for the name Hermolaos: Gender: Masculine; ...Means "the people of Hermes" from the name the messenger god Hermes combined with Greek λαος (laos) "people"."
-snip-
The Russian baby names website http://www.findyourfate.com/numerology/babynames/russiannames.html also gives the meaning "people of Hermes" for the masculine name "Ermak". That name could be modernized to "son of Hermes". My guess is that "Ermek" means the same thing. Of course, I could be wrong about this.
If anyone knows any information about this name, please share it with me and other Cocojams' readers. Btw, click http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kyrgyzstan for formation on the Central Asian nation of Kyrgyzstan.
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
****
ERMIAS
Trying to find the meaning and how to pronounce the Ethiopian name "Ermias". Thank you.
-Patty; 3/5/2007
Editor:
http://www.aacasa.org.au/Adoption05.htm indicates that "Ermias" is a "Biblical / Amharic" form of the male name "Jeremiah". Sorry, that website did not provide a pronunciation key for the names listed on that site. My guess is that Ermias is pronounced almost the same as the name "Jeremiah." http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jeremiah gives the "the Lord will raise" as the meaning of the male name "Jeremiah". http://www.weddingvendors.com/baby-names/meaning/jeremiah/ and other name websites indicates that Jeremiah means "exalted of the Lord". Of course, Jeremiah was "raised" above other men and was 'exalted of the Lord" because of his close relationship with God and his ability to prophesy. However, the traditional customs throughout the world of giving a name that mentions the Supreme God [or the forces under the Supreme God] was meant to ensure that the child with that name received special favor and protection from God. In addition, these theosophical names were given as a means of demonstrating the love and high regard that the family had for that child. Because God is special, a person having a name that refers to God, is also special.
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
****
ETONIA
"Etonia" (pronounced e-TAHN-yah) is a contemporary African American female name that is a variant form of the name "Tonya". . A woman I met with this name told me that her mother made it up because she liked the name "Tanya" but wanted to make it a little bit different. She therefore spelled the name with an "ia" instead of the traditional "ya", She also added an "e" to the beginning of the name because she liked the way that sounds.
Although the meaning of the name may not have been concerned about the meaning of this name, it can be noted that Tonya is a short form of the name "Tatiana". Tatiana is a Russian royalty name. See the entry for "Tatiana" below.
The "e" could be said to stand for "excellant" or "exciting" or other postiive attributes.
Thanks, for sharing your name with Cocojams, Etonia!
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
****
EUNICE- see entry for Younis
****
EVE; EVITA
Would you forward information regarding the meaning of the name Eve. Thank you,
-Avis; 9/2/2006
Editor:
There are a number of online sources for the name "Eve". See this one from http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Eve_(name):
"Eve is a given name for a female, and is the English version of the Latinized name Eva. The name is derived from the Hebrew name חַוָּה (Chavvah). This is derived from the words chavah, meaning "to breathe" and chayah, meaning "to live". Use of this as a first name in England began in the 12th Century. This was a fairly uncommon name, and is less popular than Eva. However, it gained in popularity after the novel Uncle Tom’s Cabin was published in 1852, as one the main characters from it was named “Little Eva.” Since then, Eve is a common name in both English and French, ranked as 674 in the USA popular names ranking, and first in the French ranking. It has English variants including Ava, Evita and Evie"."
-snip-
"Evita" may be said to literally mean "Little Eve" or "Little Eva" because in Italian and Spanish "ita" means "little" {in an affectionate, nickname for children sense, not in the sense of being short in height}.
Btw, I post links to online sources for names as a means of encouraging readers to look up name origin and meanings themselves. Try it! It's fun!!
-Wear your name proudly. Best wishes, Azizi
****
FARAH; FARRAH
1. Arabic female name that means "joy".
2. English female name that means "beautiful, good looking"
-Wear your name proudly. Best wishes, Azizi
****
FATIMAH; FATIMA
How widely used is my name Fatimah?
-fatimah; 6/26/2006
Editor:
"Fatimah" {Fatima; Fatma} is a female Arabic name that is very widely used among Muslims. Less often, this name is also given to non-Muslim females in the United States and elsewhere. When African American started given themselves and their children Arabic names in the early 1970s, this was one of the more common Arabic names given to females. American variants of this name include "Fatemah, Fateema".
I have read that Arabic speaking people pronounce this name FAH-tee-mah. However, following the tradition that Americans have of putting the emphasis on the second syllable, most often we pronounce this name "fah-TEE-mah}.
See this excerpt from The New Age Baby Name Book {Sue Browder; Workman Publishing; New York, 1974}: {Arabic} "The origin of this name is unclear; although it may mean "weaned"
[weaned=a child who is no longer breastfeed]. This name is so closely associated with Fatima, the favorite daughter of the Prophet Muhammad, that it has come to mean "daughter of the Prophet". Popular throughout the Muslim world, including Arabia, Jordan, Egypt, Iran, Turkey, and India. Fatima is believed to have lived from 606 to 632 A.D. and was married to Ali."
Since Fatima means "the [favorite] daughter of the Prophet Muhammad", women with this name are considered to be special people, or under the special protection of the Prophet.
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
****
FATOU; FATU; FANTA
I was wondering what my name means. My name is Fatou.
-Fatou; 8/4/2006
Editor
The female name "Fatou" {pronounced "FAH-tu"} is from the Wolof language of Senegal, Gambia, and Mauritania {West Africa}, and/or the Mandinka {Mandingo} language of Mali, The Gambia, Senegal, and other countries in West Africa. From the number of online references to that name, it appears that Fatou is a widely given name in those nations. The name "Fatou" is a form of the Arabic female name "Fatima". The name "Fatima" literally means "weaned" {a baby girl who is no longer breast feed}. However, the name "Fatima" has taken on added significance because it was the name of a favorite daughter of the Prophet Mohammed.
See this excerpt from http://www.thinkbabynames.com/meaning/0/Fatima/ :
"The girl's name Fatima is pronounced FAH-tee-mah. It is of Arabic origin. The name of the favorite daughter of the prophet Mohammed; one of the four "perfect women" mentioned in the Koran. See also Aisha, Khadijah, and Mary. Fatima is also the name of Bluebeard's last wife in some versions of that tale. Fatima has 5 variant forms: Fateema, Fateemah, Fatimah, Fatma and Fatmah"
-snip-
"Fatou", "Fatu"; "Fanta" are forns of the name "Fatima" that are given in some French speaking African nations such as The Ivory Coast and The Gambia. Here's a link to a Reggae song entitled "Sweet Fanta Diallo" This song is sung by Ivory Coast artist Alpha Blondy: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TsqYVubv3Eg&feature=related
In the United States, the name Fatima may be given to non-Muslims. That name is usually pronounced "fah-TEE-mah". I'd be interested in knowing from Fatou how she pronounces her name.
In searching for online information about this name, I found this interesting article written by a woman of mixed Senegalese/American ancestry who writes about her name and her visits to Senegal:
http://www.acibaobab.org/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=49&It...
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
****
FAUNCETT; FAUNCETTA
Fauncett -This name has no established meaning. I would consider it to be of contemporary American origin, perhaps from the word "Faun" meaning "deer" . Deers are generally considered to be graceful, gentle animals. The word 'deer" could also be associated with the word 'dear' which means one "who is loved or cherised". In the French language 'ett' {or 'ette'} is a suffix that means "little" It is used in an affectionate manner. Given all of this, I would say that 'Faunett', 'the graceful, gentle, cherished little one".
Of course, when names have no established meanings, you can give them any positive meaning you chose.
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
****
FEDERICKA
My name is Federica and I was wondering what it meant. Also, my friends name is Nicole and what does that mean? My sister's name is Sofia and her friend is Erika. Please tell me what they mean.
-Nickiequeen ; 10/26/2007
Editor:
Federicka, your name is probably a female variant {form} of the male name "Frederick". http://baby-names.adoption.com/search/Frederick.html has this information for the name "Fredericka":
"Gender-Female; Origin-Old German; meaning-peaceful ruler; similar names-Fredericka, Frederica, Freda, Federica, Friederike."
Cocojams' Name page focuses on personal names that many people would consider to be non-standard {for the USA}. These are usually names whose origins & meanings are somewhat difficult to find. The names "Nicole", "Sofia" {Sophia}, and "Erika" {Erica} are usually considered to be standard feminine names in the USA. You can find out their origins & meanings by going to a search engine like http://www.google.com. Type in the name you are interested in finding information about and then the words "name meaning". For instance Nicole name meaning. When you click on "go", you'll usually get a page or pages that provide the origin and meaning of that particular name. Try it. It's fun!
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
****
FELEG
Feleg pronounced FEH-LEG what does it mean. it is of Eritrean heritage
-Kali ; 10/26/2006
Editor:
I'm sorry. I was not able to find information about this name. However, I found this website where you might post your question: http://www.topix.net/forum/world/ethiopia/THBCUEPRNOMAL7BN9/p2
Given the closeness of Ethiopian and Eritrean names, perhaps you may get a response from that site's readers. And although I was not able to help you, I want to thank you for prompting me to find that website and another excellent resource on Ethiopian names:
http://www.myethiopianame.bravehost.com/
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
****
FELICIA ; PHYLLICIA; PHYLLISHA
http://www.thinkbabynames.com/meaning/0/Felicia: The girl's name Felicia \f(e)-li-cia\ is pronounced feh-LEE-shah. It is of Latin origin, and its meaning is "lucky, fortunate, happy". Feminine form of Felix. Actress Phylicia Rashad.
Felicia has 30 variant forms: Falecia, Faleece, Falicia, Falisha, Falishia, Felice, Feliciana, Felicidad, Felicie, Felicienne, Feliciona, Félicité, Felicity, Felis, Felisa, Felise, Felisha, Feliss, Felita, Feliz, Feliza, Felysse, Filicia, Filisha, Phalicia, Phalisha, Phelicia, Phylicia, Phyllicia and Phyllisha.
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
****
FEROZ
Hi, My name is Feroz A. i haven't discover the meaning of my name. will u pls help me to find out the meaning. Thanks,
-Feroz ; 8/29/2006
Editor:
http://www.20000-names.com/male_persian_names.htm lists "Feroze" "Firoz" as variants of the Persian {Iranian} male name "Firuz". These names mean "successful".
On http://www.sudairy.com/arabic/masc.html#F , a website of Arabic masculine names, I found the name "Fawwaz" {meaning: most successful}. This name and Feroz are probably related.
-Wear you name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
****
FINIECE
Hi i just wanted to know the meaning of my name Finiece, I was named after a French man name Finiese. If you can help me I would really like that. Thank you for your time.
-Finiece R.; 9/15/2006
Editor:
You're welcome, Finiece. And thank you for including the information that you were named after a French man. I found no listing of the name Finiece or Finiese in books on names & on Internet websites on names, However, I did find a number of listings for the name "Finn" and "Finley" {Finlay}. Here are some meanings for "Finn" and "Finlay" {Finley}:
Finlay {Irish Gaelic-male}-"little fair-haired soldier" [forms]-Finn, Findlay, Findley; Finley, Finn
Finn {Irish Gaelic-male}-"fair-haired and fair complected"; {Old German} -from Finland; A short form of "Finlay" [forms]-Finnie, Finny
{source-Bruce Lansky, The Best Baby Name Book}
Finn; Gender: (male); Origin: Scottish, English; Meaning: fair hero, sunbeam
http://www.babynamesworld.com/meaning_of_Finlay.html
Sue Browder's book The New Age Baby Name Book has the same information for the name "Finn". Browder's book also has this entry for the name "Finley" -{Irish Gaelic-male}-"small, fair-haired, brave one or sun-beam"
It's very possible that the French name "Finiese" could have been created by using the root element "Fin" {from Finley or Finn} + the suffix {ending} "ice" which is pronounced "iece" or "iese". This "ice" element is often found in French names {meaning= "little one"-a term of affection}. Btw, you didn't give your gender. With few exceptions like the name "Maurice", in the United States, it appears that names ending in "ice" are usually considered to be feminine. While "Finn" and "Finley" are listed as masculine names, some folks have given "masculine names" to females. Whether you are female or male, it seems to me, that you can use any or all of the meanings for Finn and/or Finley as the meaning for your name Finiese.
In researching the name "Finiese, I learned that there's a masculine Ghanaian name "Flynn" . The meaning of that name is "the river Offin". In Ghanaian traditions, bodies of water are believe to be the embodiment of very powerful spiritual forces. While "Offin" is unlikely to be a source of your name, it's interesting to me that in one sense, that name also means "strong", since a person named after a lake or river or some other body of water would be said to receive energy & strength from those spiritual forces embodied by or symbolized by or that water.
Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
****
FIONA
what does that name mean
-fiona; 8/5/2008
Editor:
Most sources give the meaning "white, pale, or fair" {complexioned} for this name
See this excerpt from http://www.namenerds.com/irish/modern.html :
"This is probably the name I get e-mails about the most! Many consider this name "quintessentially Irish." However, it was actually the invention of the 18th-century Scottish author, James MacPherson. He coined this name as a feminine form of the legendary name Fionn. To do this, he stuck the common Latinate ending -a onto the name Fionn, and dropped one "n". In Gaelic, unlike Latin (and other European languages), names do not become feminine simply by adding "a." In fact, there were already in existence a few feminine forms of Fionn: Fionnseach, Fionnait and Fionnacht. Coincidentally, the word fiona, pronounced FEE uh na, is the modern Scottish Gaelic word for "wine" (coming from the Latin vineus, meaning "vine") Fiona became popular in Scotland and England in the late 19th century as a result of the author William Sharpe using the pen name Fiona MacLeod"
Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
****
FOLASADE -see the entry for Sade
****
GEMMA
i would really like to know what Gemma names as a name, and where it comes from pretty please? :) thank you
-Gemma; 11/18/2006
Editor:
See this information from
"The girl's name Gemma is pronounced JEM-ah. It is of Latin origin, and its meaning is "gem, jewel." ...
Gemma has 5 variant forms: Gem, Gemmalyn, Gemmalynn, Jemma and Jemsa"
-snip-
This name implies that the female who is given it is a gem or jewel {meaning a precious treasure}.
Also, see the entries for the names "Germania", "Gemina", and "Jemima" on this page.
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
****
GERMANIA
well my name is germania and i want to find out a nickname and the origin asap thank you
-Germania; 11/18/2006
Editor:
Nicknames may be based a person's name, appearance, personality, interests, relationship within a family, and a host of other reasons. I never pick nicknames for people I've just met. However, Germania,
I'm wondering if it's a coincidence that you and Gemma wrote in to Cocojams within two hours of each other on the same day. After all, the name "Gemma" could be considered to be a nickname that is based on the name "Germania". Since most names ending in "ia" are female, I'm assuming that the name Germania is a female name. [Note to readers, if you send it a request for information about a name, please include the information about whether the person is a male or female. Thanks]
I found no listing for the name "Germania". However, this name may be related to the word and the word "germane". http://www.answers.com/topic/german gives this information for the word "german" :
"Having the same parents or the same grandparents on either the mother's or the father's side. Often used in combination: a cousin-german; a brother-german." Origin-[Middle English germain, from Old French, from Latin germānus, from germen, offshoot.]
-snip-
The European nation "Germany" gets its name from this word.
http://www.answers.com/topic/germane gives this origin & meaning of the word :germane": "Being both pertinent and fitting. See synonyms at relevant. ; origin: Middle English germain, having the same parents, closely connected"
-snip-
Given the meanings of the words "german" and "germane", the name "Germania" symbolizes the close bond that a person's parents had with each other and with the child they conceived. The name Germania can be said to mean "our child"; "our daughter", "one of us".
Returning to the coincidence of an inquiry regarding the name "Gemma" being submitted to this page almost the same time as the name Germania, the meaning of Gemma may also be added to reinforce the love that-ideally- is felt between members of the same family.
For an alternative meaning, the name "Germania" may have been created as a form of the name "Jemina"
which itself may be a form of the name "Jemima". See the entry for the name "Jemima".
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
****
GEMINA
Origin-Greek; meaning "a twin"; pronunciation geh-MEE-nah
"Gemini" is the name given to the astrological sign that is symbolized by twins.
For an alternative meaning, see the entry for Jemima on this page
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
****
GIABIR
I would like to know the meaning of my name: my name is Giabir thank you
-Giabir O. S.; 10/3/2006
Editor:
My guess is that your name is a variant {form of} the Arabic male name "Jabir" {which means "[the] comforter"} or the Arabic male name "Jibril" {which means the archangel Gabriel}.
See http://www.aboutbabynames.com/arabic_baby_names.php for a listing of Arabic personal names.
Giabir, I noticed that your other names are Spanish. As you know, the Moors had a very strong influence on Spanish culture. So it's not surprising that there is some Arabic influence upon Spanish personal names.
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
****
GIOVANNI ; JOVANNI
The boy's name Giovanni ... is pronounced joh-VAHN-ee. It is of Italian origin. Variant of John (Hebrew) "the Lord is gracious"...
Giovanni has 19 variant forms: Geovani, Geovanney, Geovanni, Geovanny, Geovany, Gian, Gianni, Giannino, Giovan, Giovani, Giovanno, Giovanny, Giovel, Giovell, Giovonni, Jovan, Jovanney, Jovanni and Jovanno.
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
****
HAIDI
id like 2 know da meanin of ma name -haidi-
-Haidi; 11/15/2006
Editor:
Haidi, I've seen a number of references to the name Haidi as a Chinese surname {last name}. However, I was unable to find out what that name means. I also saw the name "Haidi" listed among Australian female names, but-again- I wasn't successful in finding out its meaning.
However, http://www.thinkbabynames.com/meaning/0/Heidi list Haidee as a form of the name Heidi. See this information:
"The girl's name Heidi is pronounced HYE-dee. Short form of Adelaide or Adelheid (Old German) "exalted nature." Literary: the name of a girl of the Swiss Alps in Johanna Spyri's beloved children's novel "Heidi."
Heidi has 6 variant forms: Haidee, Heida, Heide, Heidey, Heidy and Hydee."
-snip-
It's possible-if you are female, that your name Haidi may be another form of the female name Heidi.
The closest male name that I found for Haidi is "Haidar". See this information on that name from
http://www.paternityangel.info/CommonNames/namesbegin.asp?name=h&BoyGirl...
"Haidar; [gender] boy; [language] Arabic; [meaning] lion'
-snip-
Since a lion is considered to be the king of animals, the meaning "exalted nature" fits that name too.
Of course, neither of these names may be the correct origin & meaning for Haidi. If anyone knows any information on this name, please share it with us here.
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
****
HAILEY; HALEY
Can you tell me what the surname Hailey means and its origin. Thank you
-Brenda; 9/25/2006
Hailey is given as both a personal name and a surname {last name}.
Here's some possible meanings I found that were listed in various names books and Internet sites:
http://genealogy.about.com/library/surnames/h/bl_name-HALEY.htm :
" Definition: Dweller at the hay clearing; Surname Origin: English; Alternate Surname Spellings: Hailey, Haily, Haly, Hayley
From What Shall We Name The Baby", editor Winthrop Ames, Pocket Books; originally published in 1941; 1963 edition: Haley [is a] nickname for the male name "Henry", a Teutonic [Germanic] name which means "Ruler of the home"; also a nickname for the male name "Harold", a Teutonic {Germanic} name which means "mighty in battle}.
From The Best Baby Name Book In The Whole World, editor Bruce Lansky, Meadowbrooks books, 1978: Haley, Hailey, Hailee, Haleigh, Halie etc Origin-Scandinavian; Meaning-hero
From The Best Baby Name Book In The Whole World: Hallie-Origin-Greek; Meaning-thinking of the sea.
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
****
HAKEEM; HAKIM; AKEEM
See the entry for Shakiym below.
****
HALONA
Can you please tell me about the origin and meanings of Halona? Thank you.
-Janice H.; 7/22/2006
Editor:
The female name "Halona" is said to be of Native American origin and mean "happy fortune" or "fortunate" . This origin & meanings are given in several online baby name websites, and was also given in several baby name books including Sue Browder's The New Age Baby Name Book {happy fortune} and Bruce Lansky's The Best Baby Name Book In The Whole Wide World {fortunate}. Unfortunately, none of these sources indicate which Native American ethnic group this name comes from. Btw, I also looked in the Native American name website whose link I gave under the name "Amariah". The name "Halona" wasn't listed there, which is a good thing since that website is a listing of names which are said to be of Native American origin and-according to that website- actually aren't.
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
****
HAMDI
i would like to know what the egyptian name Hamdi-a male name means?
Editor:
See this information from http://www.sudairy.com/arabic/masc.html - "Hamdi - Of praise"
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
****
HAMID-
http://www.sudairy.com/arabic/masc.html -The praised one; variation of the name "Muhammad"
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
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HANA
http://www.ummah.net/family/fem.html - an Arabic female name meaning "Happiness"
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HANAN
Hi there, i have heard sooooo many different definitions for the name Hanan....but not quite sure which one is correct. If u can please tell me what Hanan means and why (that i have noticed at least lol) that the name is so popular within the islamic community. I have about 4 other cousins with the exact name. So if you could please explain to all of us the meaning of Hanan. Thank you, much appreciated!
Editor:
See this information from http://www.20000-names.com/female_arabian_names.htm Arabic female name meaning "compassion"; Also see http://www.ummah.net/family/fem.html Hanan - Mercy.
-snip-
"Mercy" and "compassion" basically mean the same thing. The Arabic female names Hanan and Hana are very similar to the Hebrew female name "Hannah" . Hannah means "Favored by God, or graceful." Hana and Hanna are variant spellings for the Hebrew name Hannah. Btw, the Hebrew name Hannah is related to the name Ann {Anne}.
Also see the information above for the name Hana' and the information below for the name Hannade.
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
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HANNADE
I wanted to know the meaning to my Arabic name Hannade is. My mother keeps telling me different meanings behind my name and i dont think she really knows. I have been researching my name and a cant find the meaning. Can you help me find the meaning?
Hannade; 7/24/2006
**
what does the name hannade mean. its arabic
-hannade; 7/18/2007
Editor:
Hannade, you may or may not live in the United States. But even if you don't, my thoughts on names as an expression of self-determination and creativity may be something you might want to think about.
Some names have fixed meanings. Some don't. In some societies the spelling of names is rigid because a specific letter combination means something specific. {In Arabic, in Latin, and in Yoruba [Nigeria] for example, specific parts of a name mean specific things}. But in the United States, specific letter combinations don't have any meaning. In the United States there is no religious and little cultural prohibition on changing the spelling of names. As a result of this lack of any etymological meanings for specific combinations of letters, and because there is no religious prohibition against changing the spelling of names, people in the United State have been free to experiment with how they spell and otherwise create names. Especially since the 1970s, people in the United States have been using their self-determination and their creativity to come up with names which may sound like an already existing name but is spelled differently. Also since the 1970s, the way names look has also taken on a new measure of importance. Adding an accent mark, or a hypen, and/or capitalizing the first letter of the name as well as the beginning letter of the second syllable have been used to give names flair and uniqueness.
In addition, some names may have changed in spelling for the same reason why lyrics to some songs change-because people may have heard a name and actually 'misheard it' or 'misremembered it'. Throughout much of African Americans {and other "UnitedStaters" history}, a name might have be given to a newborn because a grandmother or another person liked it though they weren't quite sure of how it was spelled. The name was spelled the way that person thought it was actually spelled or they way that person thought it should be spelled. And-sometimes-that name gets passed on through that family with that spelling, or with a slightly different spelling.
While this is all well and good, it sometimes makes it difficult to figure out the "root" name for a newly created, or differently spelled name-if in fact any root or {base} name existed. Sometimes, there may be more than one contender for the root name for their name. Names that are spelled the same or similarly from different languages may have the same or similar meanings. Often the reason for this is that these 'different languages' are related to each other {consider for instance how Arabic, Hebrew, and KiSwahili are related or how Latin, Spanish, Portuguese are related}. However, names from different languages which are spelled the same or similarly may have completely different meanings.
In my opinion, the role of a creative, thinking person who wants to know what her or his name means is to look up name meanings for names similar or the same as her or his name, and go with the name meaning preferred, or make up a name meaning that suits her or him best. Of course, others may disagree with my philosophy on this and that's cool with me.
All of this to say, while I've not found a listing online for the meaning of the name Hannade, I've found names that are similar to Hannade. You may want to consider these name origins and meanings as you make your decision as to what the name "Hannade" means to you:
Hani-full of joy; {Arabic male name}
Hanan mercy, grace [God's grace]; affectionate, loving, tender; {Arabic female name}
Hani'ah - of happiness, bliss {Arabic female name}
Hannah-grace of God; full of grace; {Hebrew} female
Hanifah, Hanifa, Haneefa - True believer; {Arabic female name}
Hanna- Happiness (female name from the Nigerian language Hausa)
Hannetu-full of grace; {Nigerian female name}
Note: these last two names probably originated from the Arabic male male name "Hani" or female name "Hanna"
Also, you may be interested in knowing that in Yoruba, a Nigerian language, the element "ade" {pronounced ah-day} means "crown" "or "honor". Thus, its possible that combining Hanna+ade would yield the name Hannade. That name would means "the crown" {or honor} confers {gives} grace, happiness, favor with God...
See http://www.sudairy.com/arabic/fem.html for these Arabic female name entries, and other similar spelled names.
-snip-
Again, you are the one who should decide what your name means! These name meanings provide you with some information. If I find a listing of Hannade in an Arabic source, I will post it.
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
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HANNAH
Hannah; Gender: Feminine; Usage: English, Jewish, French, German, Biblical ;
Pronounced: HAN-a (English), HAH-nah (German)
"From the Hebrew name חַנָּה (Channah) which meant "favour" or "grace". Hannah was the mother of Samuel the prophet in the Old Testament. The Latin version of this name is Anna"
-snip-
The name Anna may be pronounced "Anne-ah" or "AHN-ah"In this context "favored" or "grace" is probably an abbreviated way of saying "One who is favored by God" or "We were favored by God [as we now have a daughter}; or "It is through God's grace [that we have a daughter".
In the modern context, "grace" may also be considered as meaning "One who is graceful."
Also see the entries on this page for the Arabic names Hana' and Hanan.
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
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HARUNI
See this information from http://www.sudairy.com/arabic/masc.html Masculine Arabic Names "Haroun, Harun - Lofty or exalted; A Prophet's name (Aaron). The name "Haruni" {hah-ROO-nee} is a KiSwahili {Swahili} form of this name. Swahili names often add an "i" {pronounced "ee"} to Arabic names. For another example of this practice, see the entry on this page for the name "Omari".
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
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HASSAN; HASANI; HUSSEIN; HUSAIN
From http://www.thinkbabynames.com/babyname.php?g=1&n=Hassan&f=a
"The boy's name Hassan is pronounced hah-SAHN. It is of Arabic origin, and its meaning is "good-looking, handsome." Popular in the Arabic world. Hasani (ha-SAHN-ee) is a Swahili variant.
Hassan has 3 variant forms: Hasan, Hasani and Hassain."
-snip-
Also see the entry for "Hussain", "Hussein"
"Hasani" is also given as a female name, at least in the USA.
The Swahili name Hasani probably is a form of Arabic female name "Hasnah, Hasna', Hasna Beautiful" http://www.sudairy.com/arabic/fem.html
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
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HEIDI
I want to know what my name meens but i dont think it means anything...
-heidi; 11/28/2006
Editor:
See this information from: http://www.thinkbabynames.com/meaning/0/Heidi: "The girl's name Heidi is pronounced HYE-dee. Short form of Adelaide or Adelheid (Old German) "exalted nature." Literary: the name of a girl of the Swiss Alps in Johanna Spyri's beloved children's novel "Heidi."
-snip-
I have also seen this name given the meaning "noble one".
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
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HERMES
Wondering about the german origin of the last name Hermes
-Troy H; 6/4/2008
Editor:
Troy, I'm not aware of any German source for the name surname {last name} . Hermes is "Hermes (Greek} in Greek mythology, is the Olympian god of boundaries and of the travelers who cross them, of shepherds and cowherds, of thieves and road travelers, of orators and wit, of literature and poets, of athletics, of weights and measures, of invention, of general commerce, and of the cunning of thieves and liars.[1] The analogous Roman deity is Mercury" http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hermes
http://www.theoi.com/Cult/HermesTitles.html provides this listing of Hermes' various divine functions: "as god of herds and flocks, markets and trade, craftiness, roads and travel, athletics and the Games" as well as other interesting information about other titles that were given to the Greek god Hermes. I did find mention in this Wikipedia page: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Herm%C3%A8s about a German family with the last name Hermes that founded the "prestigious, highly-respected, French high fashion house specializing in leather, ready-to-wear, lifestyle accessories, and perfumery luxury goods" which is named Hermes. I'm not sure whether that family had Greek roots or not. If I find out any additional information about this surname, I'll post it.
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
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HICKS
I would like to learn more about my family's last name: Hicks. Could u tell me? or someplace i can find out free of charge? Thanks, Pamela.
-pammybaby, 8/10/2006
Editor:
Pamela, congratulations! In the 6 months that this page has been a part of Cocojams, you are the first person to ask about the meaning of a last name {surname}.
According to Leslie Dunkling's The Guinness Book Of Names (originally published in Great Britain, 1974; 1986 edition}, the last name 'Hicks' comes from the male name 'Richard'. The name 'Richard' means "powerful ruler" in Old German and "brave and powerful" in Old English. The Guinness Book of Names also lists the following last names as coming from the name 'Richard': Dickens, Dickinson, Dickson, Dix, Dixon, Hickie, Hickson, Higgins, Higgs, Hitchens, Prickett, Pritchard Pritchett, Richards, Richardson, Rucketts, Rix.
-snip-
Btw, Pamela, see the information about the origin & meaning of Pamela in the P section below.
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
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HUSAN; n, Hussain, Hussein
"Hussain", "Hussein" are Arabic male names meaning "handsome". These are forms of the male name "Hasan". Other forms of the name are Husayn, ,Husain, Hosein, Hüseyin. See http://www.ummah.net/family/masc.html - "Husain, Hussein - Little beauty; Hussein was a descendent of the Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) [peace be unto him]"
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
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I,J
ILLA; ILANIS; ILLANYS
I was named after my Mom's best friend, Illa. I have seen other spellings of my name such as Aila, Ila, but I would like to know what my name means and where is it from?
-Illa G.; 7/3/2006
**
Hi, I just want to know the meaning of the name Ilanys, 'couse i been looking and i didn't find an answer, and that's my daughter name. Pleaseeeeeeeee. Thanks
-Ilanys; 4/12/2007
Editor:
Often, names that are spelled the same or spelled similarly are found in different languages. These names usually have completely different meanings. Since you were named after your mother's best friend, knowing what culture she is from may help you determine which language/culture this name came from.
Here are several origins & meanings that I found for the female name "Illa" or names that are spelled like it:
Illa- {French} meaning 'From the island' {a 'place name', meaning a name that refers to a geographical location} . Other versions of "Illa" are Eila, Ilanis, Ilanys and Isla. http://www.thinkbabynames.com/meaning/0/Ila
According to The New Age Baby Name Book {Sue Browder; Workman Publishing; New York, 1974}, "Ilia is Latin [and means] from Illium' or [a town also known as] "Troy. In Roman mythology, Ilia was the mother of Romulas and Remus [the twin brothers who founded the nation of Italy]. The same name was used by American Indians but its meaning is lost".
Given the Latin language meaning of the name, I'd say it means "mother of a nation' {which means "a very important person"}
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IMANI
What does my name mean?
-Imani; 4/13/2007
Editor:
"Imani" is a Swahili name that means 'faith". Imani is a variant {form} of the Arabic word & name "iman". Imani is considered to be both a boy's and girl's name, but among African Americans it is usually given to girls. Among African Americans, Imani is pronounced in "ee-MAH-nee". As an aside, Imani is the last day of Kwanzaa. Click http://www.officialkwanzaawebsite.org/index.shtml to read information about Kwanzaa.
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
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INGRID
What does my name mean?
-Ingrid; 10/11/2006
Editor:
See this information from http://www.thinkbabynames.com/meaning/0/Ingrid
"The girl's name Ingrid is pronounced ING-rid. It is of Scandinavian and Old Norse origin, and its meaning is "Ing's beauty." Norse mythology: Ing, god of earth's fertility, rides the land each year to prepare it for spring planting"..Ingrid has 4 variant forms: Inga, Inge, Inger and Ingmar."
-snip-
It's interesting to note that Ing is a male god, but Ingrid is a female name. See this information http://www.behindthename.com/php/view.php?name=ing about the name Ing: "Gender: Masculine ; Usage: Germanic Mythology, Norse Mythology; From old Germanic Ingwaz, which possibly means "he who is foremost". Ing was the name of a Norse and Germanic fertility god, known in Scandinavia as Yngvi Freyr (see Freyr}."
-snip-
http://www.behindthename.com/nmc/swe.php lists other names that have the root name "Ing". One of those name is the masculine name "Ingemar". This name means "Ing is famous" as it "is from the Old Norse name Ingimárr, derived from the name of the Norse god ING combined with mærr "famous"."
Also, http://www.behindthename.com/php/view.php?name=ingrid has this information for the name Ingrid: "Gender: Feminine; Usage: Scandinavian, German; Pronounced: ING-grit (German); From the Old Norse name Ingríðr meaning "Ing is beautiful", derived from the name of the Norse god ING combined with fríðr "beautiful". A famous bearer was Ingrid Bergman, an actress from Sweden".
-snip-
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
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ISHA; IESHA; AIESHA; AYESHA
what does isha mean?
-Isha, 11/5/2006
Editor:
The name "Isha" is usually pronounced "EE-SHAH". Isha is probably form of the Arabic & Swahili female name "Aisha" and the Swahili name "Maisha". The suffix "isha" is also similar to the ending "icia" that is found in such European language names as "Alicia" and "Patricia". In addition, the ending "isha" is used for a number of contemporary {mostly African American} female names such as "Latisha", "Yamisha" and "Tomisha". Furthermore, there is the somewhat familiar female name "Tanisha" which comes from the Hausa {Nigeria, West Africa} language and means "female born on Monday". And I wouldn't be surprised if there weren't many other traditional African names that end in 'isha'.
When used as a stand alone name or nickname "Isha" is probably of contemporary African American origin and probably doesn't have any established meaning. However, the Arabic meaning of the female name "Aisha" is "life" and the Swahili female name "Maisha" means "life".
http://www.sudairy.com/arabic/fem.html gives the meaning of Maisha as "walking with a proud, swinging gate" {"gate" here means "stride"}. Since the name Isha is probably a form of the name Aisha, you could say that "isha" means "life" or "full of life & vitality" or "the essence of life". You could also say that Isha means "walking proudly through life".
As an alternative, the female name "Nkissa" from the Bogangi language of Central Africa is said to be one origin of the female name "Keisha". Nkissa means "favorite" {the favorite one}. It's possible that Isha may be a form of the name "Keisha". Therefore you could say that "Isha" means "the favorite one".
Or you could use your self-determination to create a meaning for the name Isha that you prefer.
Also, see the entries for "Aisha", "Alicia" "Keisha", and "Kerisha" on this page.
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
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JACINTA
What does my name mean?
-Jacinta; 4/11/2007
Editor:
The name "Jacinta" is the feminine form of the male name "Jacinto". These are Spanish forms of the Greek word "Hyacinth". The hyacinth is a beautiful flower. See this information from http://www.flowers.org.uk/flowers/facts/e-j/hyacinth.htm about the hyacinth flower:
"The word hyacinth comes from the Greek Hyakinthos, a handsome young man who in Greek mythology was loved by the sun god Apollo. One day they were practising throwing the discus but the jealous god of the West Wind, who was also in love with Hyakinthos, blew the discus back and it fatally wounded him. From his blood grew a flower which the god Apollo named after him.
Origin: It was brought to Western Europe in the 16th century and was first cultivated in Austria in the 1500's. During the 17th and 18th centuries, like the tulip, it was to be found only in the collections of very rich flower collectors. Because of the hyacinth's pervasive perfume, the bulbs were exorbitantly expensive. The bulbs are now grown in Holland and Great Britain" ....
-snip-
Because the hyacinth flower is beautiful, the meaning of the name Jacinta is sometimes given as "beautiful" {with Jacinto meaning "handsome"}. Variants of include the Italian form Giacinta, as well as Hyacintha, Jacinda, and Jaxine."
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
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JAMAL
The meaning given to the Arabic name "Jamal" is "beauty".
Americans can substitute the word "handsome" for the word "beauty" since we rarely describe men as being "beautiful". However, in my opinion, the word "beauty" as it relates to the name "Jamal" refers to more than physical handsomeness. In this context, I believe "beauty" also refers to a beautiful spirit {kind, considerate, honest etc}. Jamar {Jahmar} is pronounced "jah mar".
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
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JAMAR; JAHMAR
In my opinion, the masculine names Jamar and Jahmar are of contemporary African American origin and was created by combining the name Arabic masculine name "Jamal" and the name "Lamar".
See this information from http://www.thinkbabynames.com/meaning/1/Lamar for the boy's name Lamar: "Lamar" is pronounced la-MAR. It is of Old French and Old German origin, and its meaning is "the water; land famous."
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
-snip-
"Land famous" can mean "famous throughout the land". I believe that the meanings for Jamal and Lamar can be given to Jamar and Jahmar. Therefore, the names Jamar and Jahmar can be said to mean "the handsome man who lives near the water and is famous throughout the land". Of course, you can skip the water part if it doesn't fit :o}
Also, see the entry for Jamarion and Jameer on this page.
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
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JAMARIO
The name Jamario is a contemporary African American creation which is a combination of the masculine names Jamar + Mario. I recall an African American male comedian on BET in the 1990s{?} having this name. To arrive at the meaning of the name Jamario, I'd say combine the meaning of the African American name "Jamar" {handsome, famous man who lives by the sea} and the Italian name "Mario" {warlike, manly}. Note: Mario is a form of the name Mark & Marcus. In this context, "warlike" can be said to mean something like "brave, assertive warrior". Therefore Jamario means the handsome, brave, assertive, manly famous warrior who lives by the sea. I think there's probably lots of men who would like to have this name.
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
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JAMARION
Jamarion is a masculine name which may have been created by expanding the name Jamario or rhyming the name "Omarion". In that case, the meaning for Jamarion is either the same as the meaning for Jamario, or the same as the meaning of Jamar + Omari. See the entries for those names on this page.
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
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JAMIR; JAHMIR; JAMEER; JAHMEER;
I would like your assistance in finding the origin and meaning for the name Jameer. Thanks in advance.
-Karen; 9/18/2008
Editor:
Jamir {and its variant forms Jameer, Jahmir etc} are contemporary masculine names that appear to be most often given to African American males. Therefore, you could say that these names are of contemporary [probably 1970s and later] African American origin. However, it's my position that he name Jamir and its variant forms Jameer, Jahmir, Jahmeer were created by combining the Arabic masculine name "Jamal" with the Arabic name "Ameer" {Amir}. When two names are combined to form a new name, the meanings of both of those source names can be given to that new name. Jamal means "handsome" and "Amir" means "prince". Therefore, Jamir {Jameer, Jahmeer etc} can be said to mean "the handsome prince".
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
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JAMEL; JAMELLA; JAMIL; JAMEEL; GAMEL; GAMIL; GAMELLA
I named my grandson Jamel Nykheri, could you tell me what that means ... Thank you so much.
-Quinta; 10/21/2007
Editor:
The name Jamel is a {contemporary American} form of the Arabic masculine name "Jamil".
http://www.sudairy.com/arabic/masc.html gives the meaning of the masculine name Jamil, Jameel as " Beautiful". In American culture, since the word "beautiful" isn't used for males, that word would translate to "handsome". Jamila, Jamela, Jamella, Jamila" are feminine forms of the male name Jamil. I also believe that Gamel, Gamil, Gamella are variants {forms} of the name Jamel. See the entry below for the name "Jamiyah".
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
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JAMIYAH
I would like to know what the name Jamiyah means.
-Mindy; 6/12/2006
Editor:
I believe that "Jamiyah" is a form of "Jameela" or "Jamila". "Jameela" and "Jamila" and "Jamiyah" are Arabic female names {or in the case of Jamiyah, based on an Arabic female name}. These names have the established meaning of "beautiful and elegant". The male form of this Arabic name "Jamil" means handsome. The Arabic male name "Jamal" also means handsome.
Btw: Jamiyah, Jamila, Jameela etc can be spelled with an 'h' at the end, or the 'h' could be left off.
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
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JASMINE; JESSAMYN
See the entry for Yasmin
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JAVON;JAVON; JAVONTE; JAVONTAY
I believe that the names Javon {pronounced jah-VON and Javonte; Javontay {pronounced jah-VON-tay} are contemporary American {usually African American} that may have been formed by rhyming the name "Davon" . Furthermore, I believe that the name "Davon" could have been modeled after the English place name Devon..; D
The name Javon could also be a variant form of the Biblical name Javan. See this excerpt from http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Javan: "The Biblical character Javan (Hebrew יָוָן, Standard Hebrew Yavan, Tiberian Hebrew Yāwān) was the fourth son of Noah's third son Japheth. He was believed to have been the progenitor of the Greeks through his sons Elishah, Tarshish, Kittim, and Dodanim....The Hebrew name of Greece, Yavan or (Tiberian) Yāwān (יָוָן), is originally the name of the eastern Greeks, the Ionians (Greek Iōnes, earlier Ia(w)ones); the Greeks are called by similar names in the rest of the Eastern Mediterranean. In Greek mythology, the mythological forefather of the Ionians is called Ion, a son of Apollo"
-snip-
The boy's name Javan is pronounced JAY-van. It is of Hebrew origin, and its meaning is "Ionian." Biblical: the grandson of Noah who settled in the islands and coast lands of the Mediterranean. He's identified as the ancestor of the ancient Greeks.
-snip-
The male name "Javan" is also given the meaning "from Greece".
Here's an alternative origin & meaning for the name Javon:
The name Javon and its variants Javonte, Javonte', and Javontay may be a contemporary American form of the Arabic male name Juwain, Juwayn which, according to http://www.sudairy.com/arabic/masc.html means "Sibling" . "Sibling": here may refer to Noah's children.
It's also possible that the name Javon {and Javonte' etc} could be a blended form of the names "Jay" and "Vaughn". See this information provided by http://www.thinkbabynames.com/meaning/1/Jay: "The boy's and girl's name Jay is pronounced jay. It is of Latin origin, and its meaning is "jaybird." Also short form of names like Jason and Jacob. Jay and Jai are also Sanskrit names meaning "victorious."
-snip-
Because I prefer positive name meanings, I would use the Sanskrit {East Indian} name meaning for the name Jay.
See this information provided by http://www.thinkbabynames.com/meaning/1/Vaughn: "The boy's name Vaughn is pronounced von. It is of Welsh origin, and its meaning is "little."
-snip-
Given these meaning, "little victorious one" could be said to be a meaning of the name Javon/ In this context ""little" refers to age and not physical size}. The suffix "te" {te'; "tay"} has no established meaning. In my opinion, the names Javonte; Javonte', and Javontay have the same meaning as the name Javon.
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
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JAGNIGHT; JENIGHT
hi the name i got is janight..or jenight, but i really dont know how to spell it. what does it mean?
-liang ; 3/28/2007
Editor:
Since the 1970s, an increasing number of American parents {and parents elsewhere} have selected names for their children from non-European languages. Sometimes these names are taken "as is". At other times, the person selecting the name uses her or his creativity to change the spelling of the name or change the look of the name {by adding a hypen or an accent mark or and/or capital letter while retaining how the name is pronounced or how she or he thinks the name is pronounced. In addition to selecting a non-European {or non-standard Hebrew} name, some people have used their creativity to create a first or middle name for a child.
Unfortunately, I haven't found any online information about the origin and meaning of the names Jagnight or Jenight. I'm presuming that this is not your name as you would know how to spell it {unless you meant you weren't sure what the traditional way the name is spelled. Notice that I didn't say "the right way that name is spelled". I think that "variant" spellings of a name are just a 'right' as the traditional spellings of that name.
I searched the Internet to see what personal names I could find that were spelled like the names "Janight" or "Jenight". If these names came from already existing names, here's two possibilities for you:
"Jignesh"- Hindu {East Indian} male name meaning "intellectual curiosity"
"Janu" Hindu {East Indian} male name meaning "soul/ life force"
http://indianchild.com/hindu_baby_names_boys,htm
These names may not have any relationship at all to the names you are seeking. But then again, they may. In any event, best wishes and
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
****
JAY
See the entry for Javon
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JELANI
"Jelani" is a Swahili male name which means "mighty"; strong, "powerful". In the United States, this name is also given to females.
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
****
JEMINA; JEMINAH
I would like to know the meaning, language, and origin of the name Jeminah.
-jey; 4/3/2008
Editor:
See this information from http://www.thinkbabynames.com/meaning/0/Jemima :
"The girl's name Jemima is pronounced je-MYE-mah. It is of Hebrew origin, and its meaning is "dove." Biblical: eldest of the three daughters of Job (see also Keren and Kezia), renowned as the most beautiful women of their time. The name has been recorded from the early 1700s in England. It is now also familiar because of the "Aunt Jemima" brand name for pancake mix and syrup, and Beatrix Potter's foolish heroine in "Jemima Puddleduck."
"Jemima has 8 variant forms: Jamina, Jemimah, Jeminah, Jemmimah, Jemmie, Jemmy, Mima and Mimma"
-snip-
"Jeminah" is also listed as an Arabic female name, also meaning "dove".
See http://www.babynamecorner.com/babynames/j/17/ . The dove is a symbol of peace.
Also, see entries on this page for the names Gemma, Germania, and Gemina.
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
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JESSICA
Hello! My name is Jessica and I was just wandering what my name "Jessica" means?
-Jessica; 3/16/2007
Editor:
See this information from http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jessica "Jessica is a female given name, originally found as the name of a character in Shakespeare's play The Merchant of Venice. One theory of how Shakespeare created the name is that he altered Jesca, the form of the name of a daughter of Haran briefly mentioned in the book of Genesis. Though Jesca was the form of the name used in English language Bibles available to Shakespeare, the King James Version of the Bible and subsequent translations refer to this person as Iscah. [1] Jesca or Iscah is derived from the Hebrew Yiskah (יִסְכָּה), meaning "the Lord beholds" or "the Lord's gift".
The Hebrew root sakhah (ס.כ.ה) means "to see", so the name Yiskah, with the added yud, implies foresight or clairvoyance. There is midrash by Rashi suggesting that Yiskah is also a name for Sarah, so the meaning of this name makes sense for two reasons: people would gaze at her beauty, and she was known to be a prophetess. The name Jessica also stands for wealth..."
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
****
JEVON; JEVONI; JEVONNY
Do you know the /origin of a girls name of Jevony? I can only find a boys name of Jevon-maybe its tied in with that, but again I can't find the meaning/origin of Jevon either. Thanks
-Jill; 10/25/2007
Editor:
The names "Jevon", Jevonny, and Jevoni are probably modern day African American creations. The name "Jevon" appears to be most often given to males, but the name Jevonny {Jevoni} appears to be given to males or females. These names probably don't have any established meaning. That means you can give them any meaning that you desire. You may want to look at similar sounding names or rhyming names, as one or more than one of those names may have been the inspiration for the name Jevon/Jevonny. Names that I think may have served as the models for the name Jevon/Jevonny are Giovanni, Javon, and Devon. See those entries on this page for those names.
In my opinion, if a newly created name does not have a meaning, you can use the meaning/s of a name or names that may have served as the model for that name. {This means that you can use the meaning of Giovanni {God is gracious}; or Jovan, a form of Giovanni and therefore having the same meaning}; Javon {which has come to mean "from Greece", and "Devon", which is a place name in England.
Also, the name "Jevonny" may have been created as a rhyming form of the Swahili name Jelani {meaning mighty; strong, powerful}.
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
****
JILLIAN
Hi, My name is Jilliann S. I live in Trinidad W.I. I have been getting vast amount of trouble to find the meaning of my name. Would you be able to assist me with the meaning?
-Jilliann S.;
Editor:
"Jilliann" is from the Latin language and means "innocent, or young downy haired one" . "Downy" means soft, curly hair. "Jilliann" is usually spelled "Jillian". Other versions of this name are "Gillian"; "Jilly", & "Jilly"}.
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
****
JOANNA; JOANNE; JO-ANNE; JOHANNA
Hi my name is Joanna could you tell me what it means
-Joanna
Editor:
See this excerpt from: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Joanna:
"Joanna is a feminine given name deriving from Koine Greek Ἰωάννα Iōanna. Variants in English include Joan, Joann, Joanne, and Johanna. Other forms of the name in English are Jan, Jane, Janet, Janice, Jean, and Jeanne...
The earliest recorded occurrence of the name Joanna, in Luke 8:3, refers to the disciple "Joanna the wife of Chuza," who was an associate of Mary Magdalene. Her name as given is Greek in form, although it ultimately originated from the Hebrew masculine name יְהוֹחָנָן Yehôḥānān or יוֹחָנָן Yôḥānān meaning 'God is gracious.'...
Sometimes in modern English Joanne is reinterpreted as a compound of the two names Jo and Anne, and therefore given a spelling like JoAnne, Jo-Anne, or Jo Anne. However, the original name Joanna is a single unit, not a compound. The names Hannah, Anna, Anne, Ann are etymologically related to Joanna just the same: they are derived from Hebrew חַנָּה Ḥannāh 'grace' from the same verbal root meaning 'to be gracious'."
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
****
JOINATHE; YOLANDA; IOLANTHE
Hello my name is Jolanthe as a child my father said that this was a German name but that is all I know. Can you help me find out what it means and it's origin I have tried to look it up and have found out nothing I am thirty years old and I must know! Please Help Me..... Thank You.
-Jolanthe L. S.; 5/28/2007
Editor:
See this information from http://www.thinkbabynames.com/meaning/0/Jolanthe: "The girl's name Jolanthe \j(o)-lan-the, jol(a)-nthe\ is a variant of Iolanthe, Violet and Yolanda".
-snip-
Also see this information from: http://www.thinkbabynames.com/meaning/0/Iolanthe:"The girl's name Iolanthe \i(o)-lan-the, iol(a)-nthe\ is of Greek origin, and its meaning is "violet flower". Yolanda is the more common Spanish form. "Yolanda" was an operetta by Gilbert and Sullivan in 1882.
Iolanthe has 9 variant forms: Iolanda, Iolanta, Iolantha, Jolantha, Jolanthe, Yolantha, Yolanthe, Yolley and Yollie."
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
****
JORDAN
See this excerpt from http://www.thinkbabynames.com/meaning/1/Jordan
"The boy's and girl's name Jordan is pronounced JOR-dan. It is of Hebrew origin, and its meaning is "down-flowing." Name of the major river in Palestine, used as a given name since the Crusades. The short form Jordi is also a Catalan variant of George. Jourdaine and Jourdan are French forms. The name is influenced by the fame of basketball star Michael Jordan and Nike's line of Air Jordan athletic shoes."
-snip-
The influence of famous people is huge when you're talking about names. The fact that Michael Jordan is so popular and famous adds to the popularity of this name and in some sense, changes it's meaning [at least socially] to a one who does difficult things well with style and finesse" {or something like that}
There is a nation in the Middle East named "Jordan". Also, enslaved African Americans used the imagery of the Biblical "River Jordan" as a coded reference for the Ohio River. Successfully crossing that river during slavery times lead to the free states. So the name "Jordan" again carries the connotation of successfully completing a difficult task. You won't find these meanings in any baby name books or baby name websites. However, I think they are more valid and positive than 'down-flowing'. I mean what the heck does "down-flowing" mean? Okay, that's the direction the river flows, and that's unique, and this river is very special, so why not say that Jordan means "the special one".
That works for me. What I'm trying to convey is that you can work with name meanings. They don't have to be fixed. Be creative. Use your self-determination. Jazz up your name meaning.
Go for it!
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
****
JIGNESH
Hindu {Indian} male name meaning "intellectual curiosity"
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
****
JOSHUA
Greek male name meaning "Yahweh {God} is my salvation". "Jesus" is the Hebrew form of this name.
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
****
JULIE
what is the meaning of these names....Julie Ann and Joseph..Can you tell the personalities of the two...
-July; 6/10/2008
Editor:
July, this page provides information for selected names that I consider to be non-standard in the USA. In my opinion, none of the names you asked about are "non-standard in the USA". However, here's some information about the name "Julie": From http://www.thinkbabynames.com/meaning/0/Julie: "The girl's name Julie... is pronounced JOO-lee, ZHOO-lee. It is of French origin. Diminutive of Julia (Latin) "youthful; Jove's child"."
-snip-
Here's how you can find information on the origin and meaning of standard names such as "Ann" and of the name "Joseph" 1. go to a search engine such as Google or Yahoo; 2. one at a time, put a name in the search box and then put the words name meaning in the search box after the name 3. click on a website that comes up that provides information about that name. With regard to your question about the connections of personal names and personalities, in theory, a person's name is supposed to fit her or his personality {or vice versa}. However, in countries such as the United States descriptive nicknames may have much more relationship to an individual's personality than the personal name that that individual receives at birth.
-Wear your name proudly. Best wishes, Azizi
****
JUWAN; JUWANTE; JWAN
In my opinion, these are African American forms of the Spanish male name "Juan". Because they are based on the name "Juan", these names have the same meaning as Juan and its forms in other languages {John, Sean, Shaun, Shawn, Shane, Ian, Jean, Jovan etc}. That meaning is "God is gracious" or "gracious gift of God".
-Wear your name proudly. Best wishes, Azizi
****
K,L
KADIM; KADEEM
http://www.blurtit.com/q788159.html "Kadeem is a masculine name. It is of Arabic origin. The meaning of the name Kadeem is old or ancient. Kadeem is an alternative spelling of the word Qadeem"
-snip-
Other sources give "servant" {meaning "servant of Allah" [God] } as the meaning of this Arabic male name. {Kadeem} may have also been given as a variant spelling of the name Kadin {Kadeen}. See the entry for that name below.
-Wear your name proudly. Best wishes, Azizi
****
KADIN, KADEEN
http://www.sudairy.com/arabic/masc.html- gender: male; language: Arabic; meaning: Friend, companion, confidant
****
KALEN, KAILEN; KALEN; KAILAN; KHEELAN; KELLEN
http://www.fairiesworld.com/fairy-names.shtml- gender:male; origin: Irish/Celtic:
meaning: warrior
-snip-
This name may also be associated with the female name Kaylin and the male or female name Kaley. See the separate entries for these names below.
-Wear your name proudly. Best wishes, Azizi
****
KANEKA; KANIKA; KANAKA
What does my name mean?
-Kaneka; 5/14/2007
Editor:
Kaneka, I'm not certain what your name means. If you are female, "Kaneka" may have been given to you as a form of the Indian {India} female name "Kanaka". For Americans, both these names could be pronounced "kah NAY kah". See the entry for the name Kanaka above.
Kaneka is similar to the female name "Kanika". Kanika is said to be a female name from Kenya, East Africa that means "black cloth". Kanika is also a female name from India that means "atom; small particle".
"Kaneka" is a corporate name for an international company based in Japan, but I don't know if that corporate name means anything.
Since "eka" is often found nowadays in the USA as a contemporary female name ending, the name Kaneka may have been created without any referent to an already existing name. If so, that means that it doesn't have any established meaning. Therefore, you can choose any meaning that you want for your name.
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
Kaley
http://www.weddingvendors.com/baby-names/meaning/kaley/ -"origin:
Celtic; gender: Female; meaning-Form of Kelly. Farm by the spring".
-snip-
This name is also given to males. See the entry for Kelly below for additional meanings for that name.
-Wear your name proudly. Best wishes, Azizi
****
KALEY {request for a nickname}
am the captain of my squad and need a nickname
-Kaley; 4/18/2007
Editor
Kaley, congratulations on being captain of your squad! You asked about a nickname. Nicknames are given for a number of reasons. Some nicknames are made up of the beginning letter of the person's first name {in your case "K" or "Kay"}. Other nicknames repeat the beginning letter of a person's first name {in your case "Kay Kay"}. Sometimes the name is made up of part of the first name or part of the name repeated two times {for example in your case, the name "Ley Ley" {prounouced "Lay Lay"}. Sometimes the nickname is based on a person's appearance {such as Shorty or Slim but sometimes these nicknames are given to people who look the opposite of what these nicknames say}. A nickname may be given because of a person's birth time {such as the name "Bunny" which might be given to a person born on or near Easter}.Other times nicknames such as honey or babe are given to a person as an expression of love and affection. This is just a few of the many many ways that people get nicknames.
Sometimes a person is given three or more nicknames in their life. Sometimes a person gives him or herself one or more nicknames. I would never ever give a nickname to a person I don't know. If you want a nickname, and don't want to give one to yourself, ask you friends and/or family to help you chose a name that they feel and that you feel fits you best.
-Wear your name proudly. Best wishes, Azizi
****
KALISHA
Please tell me what my name means kalisha doreatha. Thank you.
-Kalisha; 3/17/2007
Editor:
See the entry for "Doreatha" upthread {above}.
The name Kalisha is probably a contemporary female name which was composed by combining the popular prefix {beginning syllable} "Ka" and the popular suffix {ending syllable} "isha". These syllables don't have any meanings. However, that does not mean that the name "Kalisha" doesn't have any meaning. You could give this name any meaning you want. Or you could look the name meanings for similar sounding or similar spelled female or male names. Then you could adopt that meaning {or a combination of those meanings}. For instance, http://www.behindthename.com/nm/k.php indicates that that Kalisha is a "Combination of the popular name prefix Ka and Lisha" and then provides this information for the name "Lisha": "Gender: Feminine; Usage: English (Modern); Short form of Alicia or Felicia or other names ending with the same sound."
-snip-
See the entries for the names Alicia and Felicia on this Cocojams page.
Behind the name also lists some examples of other names that are similar to the name Kalisha. One example is the name "Kallias".
http://www.behindthename.com/php/view.php?name=kallias gives this information for the name Kallias:
"Gender: Masculine ; ...Derived from Greek καλλος (kallos) meaning "beauty". This was the name of an Athenian who fought at Marathon who later became an ambassador to the Persians".
-snip-
So what does Kalisha mean? You tell me. If can mean anything you say it means.
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
****
KANAKA
http://www.iloveindia.com/babynames/girl-k.html {Indian female name} meaning "gold"
****
KAREN
from http://www.thinkbabynames.com/meaning/0/Karen
"The girl's name Karen is pronounced KARE-en. It is of Danish origin. Short form of Katherine (Greek) "pure." See also Caryn, Karina, and Keren. Writer Karen Blixen; singer Karen Carpenter; actress Karen Allen.
Karen has 29 variant forms: Caren, Carin, Caron, Caronn, Carren, Carrin, Carron, Carryn, Caryn, Carynn, Carynne, Karan, Kari, Karin, Karna, Karon, Karren, Karrin, Karryn, Karyn, Kerran, Kerrin, Kerron, Kerrynn, Keryn, Kerynne, Taran, Taren and Taryn".
****
KAYE
I have been working on an Etymology project on my name, and i've been having trouble figuring out the etymology of my middle name .
-Kaye; 2/27/2007
Editor,
Assuming that your middle name is Kaye, see the information about the name "Kay" in the entry for Kaylin below.
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
****
KAYELA; KAYLA; KAILA
I was wondering if you could give me the meaning of the name Kayela. Pronounced Kayla. Thanks
-Ginger; 6/27/2006
Editor:
One source of the name "Kayela" {"Kayla"} is the female name "Michaela". "Michaela" is a female form of the Hebrew name "Michael" . "Michael" means "Who is like God?" [This is a rhetorical question that means "No one is a great as God". Traditionally, people believed that a child who had a name that referred to God would be protected and favored {blessed} by God. That's why there are a number of names that mention God in the Hebrew language, and in many other languages.
Click this link to see more information on the name "Michaela":
http://baby-names.adoption.com/search/Michaela.html
The name 'Kayla' also may come from the name "Kay" + "la" . In this case, "la" has no meaning, but 'Kay' is one of many nicknames for the female name Katherine {Catherine}. The meaning of "Katherine" is meaning is "pure". http://www.mybirthcare.com/favorites/pg7/baby-names-k.asp says that another meaning of the name "Kay" is "keeper of the keys". Some other variations of "Katherine" are "Kay"; "Cathie"; "Kittie"; "Rina"; "Cassie", and "Trina";
-snip-
Also, see the entry for Kaylin below.
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
****
KAYLIN; KAYLYNN
Kaylin, Kaylyn are modern American names that could be based on an Irish form of the Greek name "Katherine" which means "pure".
.
According to http://www.namenerds.com/irish/meaning2.html, a website on Irish female names, the name "Caoilfhionn" (pronounced either KEE lin or KWAY linn) means "White, blond, fair, golden". Other forms of that name given on that website are Keelin, Kaylin, Caoilinn, Caoileann.
In this context, "fair" means "of light complexion". In Western cultures, "white" and "golden" have been closely associated with purity" The name "Kaylin" is a form of the name "Kay". "Kay" is a common nickname for the Greek female name "Katherine".
-snip-
"Kaylynn" could also have been created by combining the name "Kay" and the name "Lynn" {a form of the name "Linda"; origin Spanish, meaning "pretty". Therefore, the name "Kaylynn" can be said to mean "the pretty, pure one".
See this information from http://www.thinkbabynames.com/meaning/0/Katherine :
"The girl's name Katherine is pronounced KATH-rin, [or] KATH-er-rin. It is of Greek origin, and its meaning is "pure." From the word "katharos." A name in use since at least the third century AD. The early Latin forms Katerina and Caterina became Katharine and Catherine. The French Cateline and English Catlyn came into wider use during the medieval period, and variant spellings and forms were endless."
Katherine has 193 variant forms [among those forms are] Caitlin, Caitlinn, Caren, Cari, Carin, Caryn, Carynn, Cass, Cassey, Cassi, Cassie, Cat, Cataleen, Cataleena, Catalin, Catalina, Catharine, Cathie, Karen, Kasia, Kasienka, Kathy, Katie, Kay, Kaye, Kaylin, Kit, Kitty, Rina, [and] Trina."
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
****
KARIM; KAREEM
http://www.sudairy.com/arabic/masc.html -Generous, noble, friendly, precious and distinguished
****
KATRINA
I want to know about my name
-Katrina; 11/27/2006
What does my name mean?
-Katrina B; 9/20/2008
Editor:
Katrina is the German form of the Greek name Katherine {Catherine}. Like other variants of Katherine, Katrina means "pure". Visit http://www.behindthename.com/name/katherine for more information on the etymology of this name.
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
****
KAZI
Dear editor, I don't the meaning of these names Kazi, Osman, and Haruni. Would u pls tell me the actual meanings. Thanks
- Moon; 9/27/06
Editor:
The name "Kazi" {KAH-zee} is from the KiSwahili {Swahili} language of East Africa & parts of Central Africa . The word "kasi" means "job/work". See this website that translates Swahili words to English: http://www.freedict.com/onldict/onldict.php. Given the meaning of the word "kazi", the name "Kazi" can be said to mean "one who works hard" or "a person dedicated to his work" or "a hard working person". In the United States, since the 1970s I have noticed that this name is usually given to males.
For information about the other names you asked for, please look under "H" and "O' on this page.
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
****
KEANU
See http://www.billcasselman.com/whats_in_a_canadian_name/wiacn_four_keanu.htm for information about the Canadian actor Keanu Reeves and the meaning of the name "Keanu". Here's an excerpt from that site:
"Keanu is Hawaiian and means ‘cool breeze.’ Ke-ahe-anu is literally in Polynesian ‘the breeze cool.’ It is a moderating evening wind that blows in off the Pacific over coastal mountains".
-snip-
Also, see that website for interesting information on traditional naming practices in Hawaii.
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
****
KEENAN
from http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Keenan: "Keenan is a male Irish name which means "Ancient, Distant". Keenan is an Anglicisation of the Irish name Cianán which is a diminutive of Cian. The Ó Cianáin clan (Keenan) were the traditional historians to the McGuire clan." Keenan has multiple meanings and origins. The (unrelated)English name Keenan means "Sharp".
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
****
KEHINDE
Hello, My name is Kehinde but I don't know the meaning. My dad was originaly from West Africa. I was 4 years when he died. I lived with foster parents in the UK. Please can you tell me the meaning of my name -Kehinde; 4/14/2007
Editor:
Kehinde, your name is a female or male name from the Yoruba language of Nigeria, West Africa.
See this excerpt from http://www.yorubanation.org/yoruba/Culture.htm:
"The Yoruba believe that a baby may come with pre-destined names. For instance, twins are believed to have natural-birth names. Thus the first to be born of the two is called Taiwo, a shortened form of Tayewo, meaning the taster of the world. This is to identify the first twin as the one sent by the other one to first go and taste the world. If he/she stays there, it follows that it is not bad, and that would send a signal to the other one to start coming. Hence the second to arrive is named Kehinde (late arrival)"
-snip-
I would give the meaning of Kehinde as "the second born of a set of twins". It may be that you actually are not a twin. It's possible that you were given this name in honor of some one else, or because who ever gave you that name liked the way it sounds. I've read elsewhere that the Yoruba's traditionally believe that the oldest twin is the one who was born second. He or she pushed the youngest twin out to enter the world first. According to Ogonna Chuks-orji''s book Names From Africa-Their Origin, Meaning, and Pronunciation {Johnson Publishing Co, 1972} the name "Kehinde" is pronounced keh-heen-DEH in the Yoruba language. However, I've heard it pronounced kay-HEN-day by African Americans. Ogonna Chuks-orji's book gives the traditional pronunciation for Taiwo as TAH-ee-woh. But I have usually heard that name pronounced by African Americans as TAI-woh. By the way, traditionally, the Yoruba people and some other African ethnic groups consider twins and other people born in multiple births to be very special people. The mother of children born of multiple births is also considered to be special. The child born after twins is also considered to be special. See the Yoruba nation website whose link is above born right after twins if you're interested in this subject.
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
****
KEINAN
Keinan, means "traveller" in a Somali (East Africa) language. This was the birth name for vocalist K'naan, the composer/performer of the song "Waving Flag". A remixed version of K'naan's single "Wavin' Flag" has been chosen as the Coca-Cola anthem for the 2010 FIFA World Cup, to be held in South Africa."
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
****.
KEISHA; KEESHA; KEYSHA; KEYSHIA; KHESHIA
Hi, I read your definition of my name as a variation of Keisha. However, I was always told that my parents found my name in a swahili baby names book. They said it meant "beautiful princess". I was born in the 70's in America during the Black Power movement and have always been proud of my name. Is it possible that my parents were misinformed?
-Kiesha; 2/4/2007
**
please i'm looking for the meaning and Origin of this name... Kerisha. I'll be very glad if u can help me find the meaning.Thanks.
hero; 8/4/2008
Editor:
Since the 1970s, Keisha has become a somewhat familiar (usually African American) female name. The origina of this name be traced from "Nkissa", a Bobangi {Central African} word or name meaning “favorite”. However, I believe that it's more probable that “Keisha” is an African American form of the Hebrew female name “Ketzia” or “Kecia” (ket ZEE a) meaning “cinnamon bark" or "pleasant fragrance". The name "Keshia" was popularized in the late 1980s by Keshia Knight Pulliam who played Rudy on The Cosby Show. There are many contemporary variants of this name. Among them are “Kiesha”, “Keesha”, “Kecia”, “LaKeisha” and "MyKeisha".
Some names have established meanings and other names don't. It's possible for names from different languages that are spelled the same or similarly to have completely different meanings. It is also possible for a names to have added social meanings over time because they are associated with popular or unpopular figures, objects, or experiences. In addition, people can use their self-determination and creativity to expand on the given meaning of a name, and to substitute a meaning to a name that have an established "semantic" (language based) meaning. People can also use their creativity to give a meaning to a name that they like, but which doesn't have a meaning or whose meaning they don't know.
In the 1970s, many African Americans were just starting to become familiar with African culture, and we knew very little about traditional African languages. The only African language that I and many of my contemporaries knew was Swahili-and many of us only knew a few words & phrases from that language. Black Americans (and many other Americans) in those days were more familiar with Arabic names than with any other non-European/Hebrew names. That's one reason why more Afro-centric Black people in the 1970s and now have Arabic names and Arabic modified names than those who have traditional African names. Another reason is that Arabic names are relatively easy for Americans to pronounce, and they largely conform to African American's aesthetic tastes & rules (i.e-there are no unusual [for us] consonant clusters; the length of these names is usually 2 to 3 syllables, and female names end with an a which is pronounced "ah". Besides, for those who care about such things, many Arabic names have positive, status building meanings.It should be noted that Ki-Swahili is a Bantu language that has many loan words (including names) that are from Arabic. For instance, my (adopted) name "Azizi" is a Swahil name that is a form of the Arabic male name "Aziz" and the Arabic female name "Aziza".
I don't believe that the name "Keisha" is from the Swahili language. That said, a daughter who is a "favorite one" can be considered to be a "beautiful princess". If you prefer that meaning for your name, I say stick with it. Meanwhile, Meanwhile, I'll keep my eyes and ears open for any name books or websites that indicate that the name "Keisha" is from the Swahili language and that its meaning is "beautiful princess".
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
****
KELLY
I would like to know the meaning to the following names: Kyle, Korey and Kelly.
-Kelly
Editor:
{See the other name meanings under their entries on this page}
"Kelly" female; [origin]-Gaelic, Teutonic; [meanings] church, warrior, wood, holly; farm by the spring; [variant forms, nicknames] Kel"
http://baby-names.adoption.com/search/Kelly.html
-snip-
In the United States, at least, "Kelly" has also been given to males. See also this related name from that same website:
"Kelda female Scandinavian clear mountain spring [variant forms, nicknames] Kelley, Kelly, Kel, Kell "
-snip-
Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
****
KEYONA; KIANA; KEONA; QUIANNA; KEIONIA; KIA
What does my name mean?
-Keyona; 6/22/2007
**
i want to know the meaning of 'keonia'
-John; 3/24/2008
Editor:
See this information from http://www.thinkbabynames.com/meaning/0/Kiana "The boy's and girl's name Kiana \k(ia)-na\ is pronounced kee-AHN-ah. It is of American origin. Modern name. May be a favored prefix name or a variant of Kian, an Irish Gaelic name meaning "ancient". Also possibly related to Anna. Kiana is especially favored in Hawaii, perhaps as a rhyming variant of the popular Keanu, a boy's name made familiar by actor Keanu Reeves. Keona is also a male name. See also Ciana and Keena.
Kiana has 17 variant forms: Keanna, Keiana, Keona, Keonna, Kia, Kiah, Kiahna, Kiani, Kianna, Kianni, Kiauna, Kiona, Kionah, Kioni, Kionna, Quiana and Quianna".
-snip-
See the entry for Keanu above. Regarding the sentence "possibly related to [the name] Anna, I suppose it is possible that the name Keana may be a combination of the word key+ the name Anna. If so the word key is a prefix with no meaning and the name Anna {pronounced AHN-nah} means "favor' and "grace." See the entry for the name Hannah above.
In mainland USA, the names Kiana, Kiona, Kieona, etc seem to be almost always female names. However, if the Irish Gaelic male name "Kiana" which means "ancient" is a source for this name, then it should be noted that "ancient" in this context means "wise". Therefore "Kiana, Kiona, etc can also be said to mean "the wise one".
Also, see http://www.20000-names.com/female_hawaiian_names.htm Hawaiian Female Names. That website has this entry "Kiana" a Hawaiian form of "Diana" which means heavenly, divine". That website also lists a number of names that very similar to the name "Kiana". Among those names are "Keanna" meaning "gracious" [I believe that in this context "gracious" means "walking or acting in a graceful manner"], and "Keona" meaning "God's gracious gift".
-snip-
I've found a number of other websites that indicate that female name "Kiana" or "Keona" is a form of the {originally} Hebrew male name "John". That name means "God's gracious gift" or "gift of God". I'm not sure how "Kiana/Keona" is related to the name John. Also, the name "Keonia" may be a version of these same names.
So what does the name Keona, Kiana, Keyona etc mean? If it's your name, you get to choose.
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
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KERISHA
i would like to know the meaning of kerisha. can u post it to me please
-Kerisha; 9/19/2006
Editor:
I found a meaning for Kerisha on http://www.babiesonline.com/babynames/girlbabynames/girlbabynamesK.asp. That website says that a Babies Online member indicated that "Kerisha" means "Gorgeous female".
It's possible that this meaning may have come from the meaning of the name "Kerrin
[origin: Hebrew]; meaning: Beauty. Abbreviation of Kerenhappuch; In the Bible Keren was one of Job's three daughters]". Source: same website listed above. See the entry above for the similarly spelled name "Karen".
While I think that "gorgeous female" or "beauty" meanings are great, I believe that the name Kerisha probably doesn't have an established meaning that professional etymologists would accept. {"Etymology" is the study of word origins & meanings}.
In my opinion, "Kerisha" is probably a contemporary American name that was created by combining the element "Ker" or "Keri" with the element "sha" or the element "'isha" . In the case of "Keri+isha", one of the "i"s was dropped. Since the mid to late 1960s the suffix {ending syllable} "isha" has been very widely used for female names, especially among African Americans. "Isha" is pronounced "e-shah". Unlike the Spanish "ita" which means little in an endearing sense, the suffix "isha" probably does not have any established meaning.
When it is used as a stand alone name or nickname "Isha", may be of contemporary African American origin and may not have any established meaning. However, since the Arabic * Swahili female name "Aisha" means "life" and the Swahili female name "Maisha" means "life" or "walking with a proud, swinging stride {gate}-this last meaning is according to http://www.sudairy.com/arabic/fem.html-you could say that "isha" means "life" or "full of life & vitality" or "the essence of life", or "walking proudly through life".
As an alternative, one origin & meaning for the name female "Keisha" is that it comes from the Bobangi people of Central Africa and means "the favorite one". See the entry for "Keisha" and "Isha" on this page.
However, in my opinion, the suffix "isha" is added to so many names not because of its possible meaning, but because of its sound and the look it creates. Although you didn't give your gender, given the overwhelming use of 'isha' as a suffix in contemporary female names, I'd guess that since you were given the name "Kerisha" , you are a female. Although it's my position that most contemporary 'isha' names are found among African Americans, I'm not as certain if you are African American. I say this because I believe that once a name becomes known, if Americans like the way it sounds, and especially if someone famous [in a positive sense] has that name, then that name becomes part of the larger name pool, regardless of its origin among African Americans or other races or ethnic groups.
If you're wanting a name meaning that is on firmer traditional ground as far as etymology goes, my suggestion is to look at the meaning of the female & male name Kerry is usually considered an Irish name that means "dark complexioned, or dark hair/eyes". That same website quoted above offers that meaning in the form of "dusty; dark". However, that website also lists "Kerrie" as having an English origin and the meaning "Ruler" [meaning "one who is in charge"].
So what does Kerisha really mean? It could mean "gorgeous female", or "beauty" or "dark beauty", or "black is beautiful" or "one who has dark eyes" {or dark hair or dark skin} or "Ruler" or -if you don't like any of these meanings-that name can mean anything you say it means. Just remember to wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
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KETURAH; QUETIRAH
Keturah is a Hebrew Biblical female name meaning "incense". Keturah was Abraham's second wife.
"Quetirah" and similarly spelled names may be contemporary {largely African American} forms of the Hebrew name Keturah. My position is that variant forms of established names can be said to have the same meaning/s as that established name.
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
****
KEZIA; KESIA; KIZZY; KIZZIE
Kezia is a Hebrew female name meaning "cinnamon tree" The nickname for Kezia is Kizzy. See the entry above for the name "Keisha" and my theory that "Kezia" may be one of the sources for the female name "Keisha" that has been given to many African American females since the 1980s.
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
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KIERRA
See the entry for Ciara above
****
KIRA; KYRA
Please confirm that Kira is indeed a Persian name, a feminine version of Cyrus
-Kira; 1/7/2007
Editor:
See this excerpt from http://people.smu.edu/eheise/Kira's%20name.htm:
There are a number of meanings attributable to the name Kira:
Celtic/Gaelic: Anglicization of Ciar or Ciara: meaning dark or black
Latin: light
Russian form of Kyra, descended from Kyros, the Greek form of the Persian name Kûrush, which may mean "far sighted" or may be related to the Persian word khur "sun". The name is sometimes associated with Greek kyrios "lord". This was the name of several kings of Persia, including Cyrus the Great, who conquered Babylon. He is famous in the Old Testament for freeing the captive Jews and allowing them to return to Israel."
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
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KIRAN; KIERAN
hey what is the meaning of kiran
-sophie; 10/18/2006
Editor:
See this information from http://www.thinkbabynames.com/meaning/1/Kiran
"The boy's name Kiran is pronounced keer-an. It is of Hindu and Sanskrit origin, and its meaning is "beam of light." Kiran has 2 variant forms: Kieron and Kyran. For more information, see also the related name Kieran"
-snip-
Also, see this excerpt from http://www.thinkbabynames.com/meaning/1/Kieran
The boy's name Kieran is pronounced KEER-en. It is of Irish and Gaelic origin, and its meaning is "black." Name of a saint (sixth century) was admired for his generosity. Actor Kieran Culkin.
Kieran has 11 variant forms: Ciaran, Keiran, Keiron, Kernan, Kieren, Kiernan, Kieron, Kierren, Kierrin, Kierron and Kiran."
-snip-
In this context, "black" may mean black or dark hair or eyes and/or a dark skin coloring.
- Wear your name proudly. Best wishes, Azizi
****
KIRKLAND
i have a boyfriend named krikland what does his name mean
-Hasani; 10/15/2006
Editor:
It's possible that the spelling "Krickand" is a typo and that name is actually spelled "Kirkland"
http://baby-names.adoption.com/search/Kirk.html gives this information for Kirk:
[gender] male [origin] Old Norse [meaning] from the church [variants] Kirkley, Kirkwood, Kirby, Kurk, Kirkus".
-snip-
The name "Kirkland" was created by combining the word "Kirk" with the word "land". The name Krikland might have been created by rhyming the name "Strickland". See this information for that name: "This name came from Strick-land or Stirkland, that is, "the pasture ground of young cattle," called stirks or steers, in the parish of Moreland, Westmoreland Co., England, where the family once had considerable possessions".
http://www.last-names.net/surname.asp?surname=Strickland
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
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K'NAAN (Keinan; Keynaan)
K'naan, means "traveler" in the Somali language (information from http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/K'naan for Keinan Abdi Warsame (Somali-Canadian poet, singer, rapper. musician whose record "Waving Flag" is the official song for the 2010 FIFA World Cup to be held in South Africa)
****
KOFI
A Ghanaian name meaning "male born on Friday". See http://home.planet.nl/~degenj/ghana1/gh-names.html for a listing of male and female Ghanaian day names and the significance that was given to those days of the week.
-snip-
The names "Coffey", "Cuff", and "Coffee" are documented as names that were used by enslaved African Americans. These names were probably variant forms of the name "Kofi". See Kwame below for another Ghanaian day name that since the 1980s is somewhat familiar to Americans.
- Wear your name proudly. Best wishes, Azizi
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KOREY- see Corey
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KWAME
Kwame is a Ghanaian name meaning "male born on Saturday". http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Akan_name is a great Internet resource on Ghanaian day names, twin names, birth order names, and special circumstances names. It's my understanding that even in Ghana, every person having a particular day name wasn't actually born on that day. For instance, see this quote from http://www.ghanacommunity.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=2431
"Kwame Nkrumah was not born on Saturday. His original name was Kofi Mbia. In some Akan cultures, its normal for people to be given the entire name of some family member that may not reflect the actual day name of that person".
-snip-
I found that above named community discussion forum to be interesting reading for other information & opinions about Ghanaian naming practices.
Click http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kwame_Nkrumah for more information on Kwame Nkrumah. Also, see the entries on this page for "Nana" and "Osei" for other examples of Ghanaian names.
- Wear your name proudly. Best wishes, Azizi
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KYLE
from: http://www.babynameworld.com/k-boy.asp
"handsome, [living] near the chapel, narrow, narrow channel, strait; Gaelic; Boy [masculine name]"
from Dell Books-4000 Names For Your Baby {published in 1966} Gaelic: fair & handsome"
-snip-
"fair" here means "fair skinned or fair haired". Some sources give the name "Kylie" is given as a variant form of Kyle. See the entry for Kylie & Kylin below.
****
KYLIE
from http://www.behindthename.com/nmc/eng9.php
"female; English; Means "boomerang" in an Australian Aboriginal language, but it could also be a variant of Kelly or Kyle. "
-snip-
Also see http://www.thinkbabynames.com/meaning/0/Kylie: "The girl's name Kylie is pronounced KYE-lee. Possibly (English) "boomerang" or (Irish, Gaelic) "graceful." Feminine form of Kyle. Kylie has 14 variant forms: Keyely, Kilea, Kiley, Kyla, Kylah, Kylea, Kylee, Kyleen, Kyleigh, Kylene, Kyley, Kyli, Kylianne and Kylin.
-snip-
If the name Kylie is a feminine form of the name Kyle, then if one meaning of "Kyle" is "handsome", then it seems to me that one meaning of "Kylie" should be "beautiful".
Also, see the name Kaylynn on this page.
Wear your name proudly. Best wishes, Azizi
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KYLIN
What is the meaning of the name kylin?
-Paul C; 9/13/2006
Editor:
See this information from http://www.parenthood.com/babynames_searchresults.html?searchName=Kylin
"Name: Kylin; Gender: Female; Origin: Gaelic; Meaning "Feminine of Kyle."
-snip-
See the information on this page for the name "Kyle" .
-Wear your name proudly. Best wishes, Azizi
****
LACHELL; LAHSHELLE; LASHELL
In my opinion, Lachell {Lashell} is a contemporary American female name that has no established meaning. This name probably was created by combining the element "La" {pronounced "lah"} with the element "chell" {shell}. Although "la" means "the" in Spanish, when it is used as a prefix in American names, in my opinion, "La" has no meaning. I don't believe that there is any established meaning for the name Lachell. However, if you wanted to assign it a meaning, you could borrow the meaning of the Hebrew female name "Michelle" {the female version of the male name "Michael" which means "Who is like God?". Since God is great, the person with a name that refers to God is supposed to be blessed and great also. See these variants given for the name "Michelle" on http://www.thinkbabynames.com/meaning/0/Michelle : "Chelle, Machelle, Mashelle, M'chelle, Mechelle, Meechelle, Me'Shell, Meshella, Mia, Micaela, Michaela, Michaelina, Michaeline, Michaella, Michal, Michela, Michele, Michelina, Micheline, Michell, Michella, Micki, Mickie, Midge, Miguela, Miguelita, Mikaela, Miquela, Misha, Mishaelle, Mishelle, M'shell, Mychele, Mychelle, Myshell and Myshella."
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
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LA'GINA
What does my name mean?
-La'Gina B.; 5/3/2007
Editor:
Imo {In my opinion}, La'Gina is a contemporary female name which is made by adding the prefix La {pronounced lah} to the name "Gina". "La" has been a popular prefix {beginning syllable or element} for American names for a long time. This is particularly true for African American female names. In the Spanish language "la" means "the". However, it's my opinion that "la" has no meaning when it is found in contemporary {and older} American names. What's important is the sound and look of the "la", and not any meaning that that syllable or prefix may or may not have. Of course, this statement is only true for certain names which begin with "la". For example, this comment does not apply to the female names "Laila" and "Latisha" found below.
The second part of the name La'Gina does have a meaning.
See http://www.thinkbabynames.com/meaning/0/Gina: "The girl's name Gina \gi-na\ is pronounced GEE-nah. Short form of names ending in -gina, a feminine form of Gene, or a variant of Jean."
-snip-
Also see http://www.thinkbabynames.com/meaning/0/Jean: "The boy's and girl's name Jean... is pronounced jeen. It is of Hebrew origin, and its meaning is "the Lord is gracious". Variant of Jane, from John. Originally from the Hebrew Yochana and translated into Latin as Joanna or Johanna. These then developed into the Old French Jehanne"...
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
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LAILA; LAILAA; LAYLA; LEILA; LEYAH
Laila-I know it means night fall but can you go a little more in depth?
-Mrs.L ; 5/3/2007
Laila, Lailah, Layla, Leila -
HI i just wish to know the meaning of my name &it's origin
-Laila; 10/28/2006
Editor:
See http://www.thinkbabynames.com/meaning/0/Laila: "The girl's name Laila \la(i)-la\ is pronounced LAY-lah. It is of Arabic origin, and its meaning is "night beauty". See Leila. Usually refers to dark hair or a dark complexion. See also Lyla. Actress Laila Robbins.
Laila has 7 variant forms: Laela, Laliah, Lailie, Laily, Laleh, Layla and Laylah".
-snip-
Also, see this entry in Nia Damali's book Golden Names For An African People-African & Arabic Names :
"Lailaa-Arabic origin; gender-female; meaning "night; sweetheart"
Also, http://www.zelo.com/firstnames/findresults.asp?name=Laila gives this information for the name
Laila: "gender-female; origin-Hebrew; meaning "dark beauty"
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
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LATISHA
Hi my name is latisha and i was wondering if you could tell me what my name means. It seems as if no one knows.
-Latisha S; 6/26/2006
Editor:
In Western cultures, for some time now, people have changed the spelling of names to suit their fancy. One reason names can be spelled differently, is to make them more unique. Another reason is to update their look, if not their pronunciation.
In my opinion, the female name "Latisha" is a modern American {probably African American} variation of the old Latin female name "Leticia", meaning "great joy" {which is shorthand for "the addition of this child to our family gives us great joy}. The name "Leticia" is usually pronounced the same way as "Latisha" but "Latisha" is more modern looking. Btw, I'd give the meaning "great joy" for the name "Tisha" which seems to be moving toward being a name in its own right, as well as the common nickname for "Latisha". I also say that "great joy" is the meaning for "Latosha" and "Tosha" , though one could make a good argument that "Latosha" {with its nickname "Tosha"} is a variant of "Latasha" {with its nickname "Tasha"}. And "Latasha" {"Latisha"} may itself be a variant of "Natasha" which is a Russian variant of the Latin name "Natalie" which means "born on Christmas day".
It does not give me great joy to confuse you. But my point is that it's alright to play with name meanings till you find the one that you feel fits. I feel that Leticia's meaning fits with Latisha. And so for me, it does. If it doesn't fit for you, go forth and find {or make up} a meaning that does fit.
You have the power!
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
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LADEZ
Information about this name was requested by Rhonda on 10/18/2006.
I'm not sure if this is a male name or a female name. I’m also not sure how it is pronounced. “Ladez” is probably of contemporary American origin, perhaps with no established meaning, particularly if it is pronounced lah-dez.
But, it might be a contemporary {hip-hop} spelling for the word ladies, {I've seen it used as an alternative spelling for that word}. If so, and if it is pronounced like the word "ladies" and if it is a female name, then it could be said to mean something like "the feminine one" {whatever that means. Traditionally, I guess it means a female who likes to wear frilly clothes, and make-up etc}.
But if Ladez is a male's name, then obviously this meaning doesn't apply. You or {the person whose name it is} can use your creativity & self-determination to come up with a positive meaning for that name.
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
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LA QUITA; LAQUITA; LAQUETA; LAQUEDA; {nicknames Quita; Quida}
people have sometimes made fun of me b/c of my name and i just would really like to know what it means
-La quita {female}
Editor:
La quita, I'm sorry that people have made fun of your name. Hopefully, you have learned not to let people's ignorance get you down. "La quita" is a variant {alternate; different; unique} way of writing the name "Laquita". There are a number of possible origins & meanings for the name "Laquita", "Laqueda" and other similarly spelled & written female names. These names are often pronounced "lah QUEE-tah" or "lah QUEE-dah".
Here are some possible origins and meanings for the name "Laquita".
http://www.babynamebox.com/q/Quita.html indicates that the name "Quita" is a Latin/French female name that means "tranquil" {peaceful}.
-snip-
"Quita" might also be a prefix {ending element} that means something like "dear little one" {in the context "little" means "young" and not "small in size". In Spanish, the word "la" is a female form of "the". Therefore, "Laquita" could be said to mean "the peaceful one" or "the dear little one". While the "la" in the name "Laquita" may mean "the", I want to emphasize that a lot of modern or older female names that start with "La" should not be translated to mean "the".
The name "Laquita" could be a variant form of the Spanish phrase la quinta which means "the summer home" {summer homes are usually considered peaceful, tranquil places, right?}."Laquita" could have been formed by rhyming the name "Marquita", a female name which is either a variant form of the name "Marcella" or the name "Marguarita" {"Margarita"}. "Marcella" is a female form of the male name "Marcell" which is a form of the name "Mark" which is Latin for "dedicated to Mars" which means "warlike" which means "brave". "Marguarita & Marquita" mean "little pearl" and are forms of the Greek female name "Margaret". Also, the name "Laquita" may have been created by rhyming the name "Larita" which is a form of the Latin female names "Laura" and "Lauren". These names mean "victory" and are a reference to the laurel tree, which was an ancient symbol of victory. Note that the prefixes "ita", "ella", and "et" {etta} all denote affection, and mean something like "dear little one". So what does the name "La quita" mean? A peaceful person, a strong, brave person, a quiet, tranquil place, a pearl, someone loved, someone who is not going to let foolish people's jokes make her lose her self-confidence and self-esteem.
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
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LASEAN
In my opinion, LaSean is a contemporary American female or male name that has no established meaning. However, I would assign it the same meaning as "Sean" {an Irish form of the name "John"} . Sean is pronounced "Shawn"/ "Shaun"} and John, Sean, Shawn, Shaun, Shane, Juan, Hans, etc mean "Gracious gift of God" or "God is gracious". In my opinion, this same meaning can also be given to Shauna, LaShauna, Shaunte', La-Juana and other "Sean"/Shawn"; "Shaun", "Juan" names,
Although "La" means 'the" in Spanish, I would not give it that meaning in the name "LaSean" or any other "La" names. I would consider "La" to be a prefix that is not meant to have any meaning. The 'La' is used to add distinction to the name, and enhance the sound of the name.
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
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LASHEA; LASHAY
The names "LaShea" and "LaShay" are contemporary American names that is usually given to females. In my opinion, the name is a combination of La {which has no meaning} and the male or female name "Shea" or "Shay". According to http://www.thinkbabynames.com/meaning/1/Shea , "the boy's and girl's name Shea \shea\ is pronounced shay. It is of Gaelic origin, and its meaning is "admirable". From Seaghdha. Also possibly "from the fairy fort"
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
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LASHONDA
Please help me. I'm trying to find out what my first name means and what origin it is. Thanks.
-LaShonda; 8/21/2006
Editor:
See the comment for LaSean & Shanice. The origin of the name LaShonda is probably modern American {African American}.
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
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LATASHA. LATOSHA- see the entry for Latisha & the entry for Tosha
****
LATAVIA
what does my name mean? thank u very much
-Latavia S; 2/9/2007
Editor:
"Latavia" {also written as "LaTavia"} is a contemporary American female name which is made up of the prefix "la+ the element "tavia". The "la" {lah} prefix has no meaning. It has been widely used in American female and male names {especially African American names} because of its sound. "Tavia" is a clip {portion} of the female name "Octavia". http://www.thinkbabynames.com/meaning/0/Octavia indicates that "The girl's name Octavia ... is pronounced ock-TAHV-yah, ock-TAY-vee-ah. It is of Latin origin, and its meaning is "eighth". Feminine form of Octavius. A clan name of Roman emperors used often in Victorian times."
-snip-
Because of its association with Roman emperors, the name Octavia can be considered a status, or royalty name. While the names "Tavia" , "Latavia", "LaTavia", or any other similarly spelled name has no established meaning, you can associate these name with an expanded meaning of "Octavia", such as "a female who is of who is of royal birth", or "one who is from the emperor's family". Btw, the name LaTavia has become "hot" lately because of its the name of one of the past members of the R&B group Destiny's Child, LaTavia Roberson. Partly for this reason, you can give this name the meaning "one who is a star", or some other meaning that associates it with high status.
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
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LATISHA; LETICIA
In my opinion, the name "Latisha" is a contemporary American form of the Latin female name "Leticia" {"Letitia"}. Leticia means "joy", "great joy" or "gladness"}.
http://www.babynamesworld.com/meaning_of_Leticia.html
Note that "Leticia" and "Latisha" may be pronounced the same or very similarly {lah-TISH-ah}. Another way of pronouncing Leticia is "leh-TISH-ee-ah".
In the United States, the name "Latisha" is most often given to African American females. A widely used nickname for Latisha is "Tisha". The rather familiar name "Latasha" is probably also a variant form of the name "Latisha" {Leticia}. "Tasha" is a widely used nickname for "Latasha" However, "Tasha" is also a nickname for the Russian female name "Natasha". La-TIE-sha is a variant form of the name "Latisha". I have seen this name spelled "Latysha" and "Latiesha". Its nickname is "Tysha". The female name "Latosha" {nickname "Tosha"} may also be considered a variant form of the name "Latisha". My position is that all of these names can be given the same meaning as the name "Leticia".
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
****
LAVONDA; LAVONNE; LAVONNA; LAVON; LAVONETTE
Lavonda" is a form of the name "Lavonne". Other variants of this name are
Lavondra, Lavon, Lavonna, Lavonia. See this information about the meaning of Lavonne http://www.babynameaddicts.com/html/names/female/female_l.html
"Lavonne, Yew; [origin] English"
-snip-
The yew is a type of evergreen tree. These trees were considered sacred in ancient times because they were symbols of long life since the trees are long lasting. Some ancient people also considered the yew evergreen tree to be a symbol of death because their leaves are quite poisonous.
A "bow" is the bow & arrow weapon. Wikipedia gives this information about the bows made of yew branches: "Yew is the wood of choice for longbow making and the bows are constructed so that the heartwood of yew is on the inside of the bow while the sapwood is on the outside. This takes advantage of the natural properties of yew wood since the heartwood is able to withstand compression while the sapwood is elastic and allows the bow to stretch. Both tend to return to their original straightness when the arrow is released". http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Taxus_baccata
-snip-
People given a name that means "yew tree" would take on the attributes of bows & arrows made from the yew tree. They would be long lived. They would be capable of taking care of themselves because they would be flexible, resilient, and, if need be, poisonous.
Also, see the entry on this page for the name "Yvonne" and its variants as these names have the same meaning as Lavonne. Note: the name Lavonne may also be considered of French, Germanic origin.
-Wear your name proudly. Best wishes, Azizi!
****
LEEZA
Hello I would like to know the meaning of the name Leeza.
-Leeza, 6/13/2006
Editor:
Leeza, your name comes from the Hebrew female name "Elizabeth" meaning "dedicated to God". Traditionally, a person who was dedicated to God was said to be fortunate and favored because the belief was that God would give special protection to those persons who were dedicated to Him. "Being dedicated to God" probably originally meant that a woman was supposed to work in the church when she became an adult. But in the 21st century, it does not have to mean that.
There are many other names that come from the name "Elizabeth". Among them are: "Beth", "Betty", "Bett", "Betsy", "Bettina", "Eliza", "Elise", "Elisa", "Elsa", Etty", "Etta", "Elisbeth","Lisa", "Liz", "Lizzy", "Libby", and "Libbi". One easy to remember rule about names is that nicknames have the same meanings as their "source" name. In this case the source name is Elizabeth.
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
****
LEISHA
Whats the meaning of name "Leisha" and what is the origin of this name?
-Sam; 11/13/2006
**
HI, I'm looking for the origin of the name Leisha which means a beautiful angel ..i guess. I dont even know it comes from which language !
-Pallavi; 2/26/2007
Editor:
The female name Leisha is probably a contemporary form of the name "Lecia". According to http://www.thinkbabynames.com/meaning/0/Lecia, the girl's name Lecia is of Latin origin and is pronounced LEE-shah. That website indicates that this name is a short form of names like "Alicia" and "Felicia". See the entries for the names "Alicia" and "Felicia" up thread.
However, there is another strong possibility: http://www.behindthename.com/php/view.php?name=letitia indicates that Lecia is an English form of the Latin female name Laetitia which meant "joy, happiness". Leticia" & "Letitia" are familiar versions of the name Laetitia. See the entry for Latisha on this page.
In my opinion, names that have an established meaning may also be giving an alternative, or an additional meaning {such as the example of Pallavi being told that Leisha meant "beautiful angel"}.
I believe that giving an alternative meaning or any meaning at all to a personal name can be a demonstration of self-determination, creativity, and love.
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
****
LIBBY
Does the name Libby or Chloe' mean anything?
-Vicky, 8/16/2006
Editor:
See the entry for Chloe above.
"Libby" is a nickname of the Hebrew female name "Elizabeth". The most common meaning I have found for Elizabeth is "dedicated to God".
Elizabeth has a large number of nicknames and variant forms besides "Libby". Some of those names are Beth, Betty, Bess, Betsy, Bettina, Elisa, Elisabet, Elisabeth, Elissa, Eliza, Elizabel, Elizabet, Elsa, Elspeth, Elyza, Ilse, Isabel, Libby, Liesl, Lilibeth, Lisa, Liza, Lizbeth, Lizette, and ZsaZsa."
-snip-
Nicknames and variant forms of a name have the same meaning as the name itself.
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
****
LINDSAY; LINSIE
I would like to know the meaning of the name Lindsay in some different languages. Thank you
-Jeanette
**
Hey, I'm writing a paper about this girl in my writing class and I want to know what her name means so I can incorporate it into the paper. Her name is Linsie...Thanks
- Becky; 1/24/2007
Editor:
See this information about the name Lindsay from http://www.thinkbabynames.com/meaning/0/Lindsay :
"The boy's and girl's name Lindsay is pronounced LIN-zee. It is of Old English origin, and its meaning is "Lincoln's marsh; island of linden trees." Place name. The surname of some of the major Scottish and English noble families...Lindsay has 21 variant forms: Lind, Lindsea, Lindsee, Lindseigh, Lindsey, Lindsy, Linsay, Linsey, Linsie, Linzi, Linzee, Linzy, Lyndsay, Lyndsey, Lyndsie, Lynnsey, Lynnzey, Lynsey, Lynzey, Lynzi and Lynzy."
-snip-
Lindsay is different from names like John {the base name for the name Jeanette} or the name Michael that have variants in different languages. The only way to find the name Lindsay in other languages is to find a translation of that name's meaning in those languages. I'm sorry that I can't help you there as unfortunately I only speak one language-English.
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
****
LOUETTA
What does my name mean?
-Louetta R.; 6/30/2007
Editor:
"Louetta" is a female form of the male name "Louis". The name is formed by combining the nickname "Lou" with the suffix "etta". See this information on the name Louis: http://www.thinkbabynames.com/meaning/1/Louis : "The boy's name Louis \louis\ is pronounced LOO-iss, loo-WEE. It is of French and Old German origin, and its meaning is 'famous warrior' "...
-snip-
"Etta" is a diminutive {meaning a short form or a nickname} of names that end with "etta". This suffix is used to feminize other male names such as Henry {Henrietta} and George {Georgetta and Georgette}. The suffix "ette" and "et" is also related to "etta" {example- Harriet", a female form of the male name "Harry". See http://www.thinkbabynames.com/meaning/0/Etta.
-snip-
A short form of a name and/or a feminine form of a name takes on the meaning of that name. Therefore, Louetta means "famous female warrior" .
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
M,N
MABINUARIE; MABINUARAYIE
I am a Sierra Leonean but as you know, we use most of your Yoruba names for our children. I am very much thankful to your site as I was able to find meaning of names that I did not know before. All the same, I will be very grateful to you if you can help me with the meaning and origin of the name . Mabinuarie/Mabinuarayie I am not sure if it is spell correct but please help me out. Whilst waiting for your reply, I thank you very much in advance for the great help.
-Beatrice; 5/11/2006
Editor:
I'm sorry, Beatrice. Unfortunately I haven't found the meaning of the name "Mabinuarie" or "Mabinuarayie" or a traditional African name that is spelled like that.
Hopefully someone reading this may recognize that name and will write in and share its traditional origin & meaning.
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
****
MAHALIA
Hello. My name is Mahalia. I'm from Costa Rica, Central America. I'm 29 years old. I wish you can help me investigate the definition of my name. I was given this name because my father loved Gospel singer Mahalia Jackson's voice. But I want to know the meaning of my name Please help me. Thanks.
-Mahalia; 7/26/2006
Editor:
Mahalia is a variant form {a version} of the Arabic and Hebrew female name
"Mahala". Usually, the meaning given for this name is "tenderness" or "tender affection". This name means that the child is greatly loved.
The name "Mahalah" [with or without the 'h'] is also frequently cited as being of Native American origin and meaning "woman". However, it's the position of http://www.native-languages.org/wrongnames.htm {Native American Names That Don't Have The Meaning They're Supposed To} that this name has no connection to any Native American population.
If I were you, I'd go with the Arabic/Hebrew origin & meaning of the name "Mahalia".
Here's an online source for those who may not know about Mahalia Jackson: http://www.galegroup.com/free_resources/bhm/bio/jackson_m.htm
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
****
MAKAYLA; MAKAILA; MYKAYLA
Makayla (mah=KAY-lah) is a female name that is of contemporary (post 1960s) American origin. This name is constructed by combining the prefix Ma (MAH) with the root name "Kayla". "Makayla" and "Kayla" are increasingly popular female names- particularly among certain populations in the United States (African Americans and Mormons & other people living in the American state of Utah. Makayla can be given the meaning "the pure one". Read the information below to see how I arrived at this meaning:
Makayla can be considered a variant of the name "Kaylin". According to http://www.namenerds.com/irish/meaning2.html, a website on Irish female names, the name "Caoilfhionn" (pronounced either KEE lin or KWAY linn) means "White, blond, fair, golden". Other forms of that name given on that website are Keelin, Kaylin, Caoilinn, Caoileann.
In this context, "fair" means "of light complexion". In Western cultures, "white" and "golden" have been closely associated with purity" The name "Kaylin" is a form of the name "Kay". "Kay" is a common nickname for the Greek female name "Katherine". The name "Katherine" means "pure".
Also see this information from http://www.thinkbabynames.com/meaning/0/Katherine :
"The girl's name Katherine is pronounced KATH-rin, [or] KATH-er-rin. It is of Greek origin, and its meaning is "pure." From the word "katharos." A name in use since at least the third century AD. The early Latin forms Katerina and Caterina became Katharine and Catherine. The French Cateline and English Catlyn came into wider use during the medieval period, and variant spellings and forms were endless."
Technically, the prefix "Ma" in the name Makayla has no established meaning. However, some people have given it the meaning "my". And one variant form of the name Makayla is "MyKayla".
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
****
MAKEDA; MAKDA
from http://www.myethiopianame.bravehost.com/Ethiopianames.html : Makeda/Makda - Amharic Ethiopian Queen [who is also known as the Queen of] Sheba; 'high tower' or 'beautiful arm-rest'
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
****
MALDONADO
can you tell me what part of spain the name maldonado comes from please? thank you.
-francisco m.; 11/12/2008
Editor:
"Maldonado-a habitational name* from Maldonado, a village in the province of Albacete"
http://www.ancestry.com/facts/Maldonado-name-meaning.ashx
-snip-
* a geographical place name.
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
****
MANDRIA
What does my name mean because I dont really know what it means
-Mandria AKA Mandy; 9/16/2006
Editor:
Hello Mandria. See a similar question posted on this page that was asked by Amanda.
Unfortunately, I'm not sure about the origin & meaning of the name "Mandria". It could be related to the name "Amanda". It also could have nothing to do with that name. Maybe "Mandria" is a female name that was created by taking part of {a clip of} a longer surname {last name}. Or maybe Mandria is made from "Madrid", the name of the capitol of Spain {Europe}. The name "Madrid" is sometimes found as a surname {last name}. See information from http://genealogy.about.com/library/surnames/m/bl_name-MADRID.htm : "Madrid: One who came from Madrid, the capital of Spain. When Jews converted to Christianity in Spain in the 15th century, whether voluntarily or by force, they often took a last name based on their town or city or origin. Surname Origin: Spanish, Jewish"
What does the name Madrid mean? See this excerpt from: http://www.nova.es/~jlb/mad_in05.htm :
"The Emir Muhammad Ibn Abd al-Rahman was the founder of Madrid. An eminent and scholarly Hispanist, Levi-Provençal, confirms this, basing his decision on Moslem documents. Later historians also, well versed in history of their city's origins, likewise have endorsed this information. But still, how did the name of the city arise?
One of those historians, Jaime Oliver Asin, has very well established what that name was. He writes, "Matrice was the first name of the city. It was, simply, the name of pre-Moslem Madrid."
That term referred to the watercourse that ran between those two hills which face each other: "Matrice" (mother of waters.)
The name changes when the Arabs come into the region. The town now is named by new settlers as "Mayrit;" a name that is made up of the Arabic term "Mayra" (mother, matrix), and the Ibero-romanic suffix 'it," equivalent to "place."
-snip-
Btw {by the way}, the name Mandria reminds me of the name Mandrake the Magician. See this information about this comic book character: http://www.toonopedia.com/mandrake.htm
I googled the word "mandrake' and found out that it's a plant that was traditionally used in magic. See http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mandrake_(plant). It turns out that "mandrake" in Hebrew is "love plant".
Of course none of this information may have anything to do with the name "Mandria". But it's also possible that it might. You could say that Mandria means "beloved" or "mother's love" or "she who comes from Madrid" or something similar.
Wear your name proudly. Best wishes, Azizi
****
MANMEET
Can you tell me the meaning of the name Manmeet. It is a young woman from Indian that has the name. Thank you.
-Kelly, 9/5/2006
Editor:
Kelly, thanks for providing the information that this name might be of Indian origin. Google searches resulted in a number of "hits" for the Hindu name "Manmeet" for Indian females and males. Here's information that I found on http://bayarea.eknazar.com/Parenting/viewbabynames.php?&g=M&r=Hindu&n=M
"Manmeet" - Friend of mind http://www.babiesonline.com/babynames/boybabynames/boybabynamesM.asp gives the origin of the name as "India", and gives Manmeet's meaning as "close/loving to heart". Perhaps what is meant by these meanings is "a person who you love because you & that person are mentally attuned to each other".
Kelly, please tell your friend to wear her name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi!
****
MARCELO; MARCELLO
I'd like to know the meaning and origin of my name marcelo. thank you so much.
Marcelo, 12/12/2006
Editor:
See this information from http://www.20000-names.com/male_m_names.htm:
"Marcello: Italian form of Roman [family name] Marcellus, meaning "warlike."
-snip-
I've also seen this given as the Portuguese form of the Italian male name "Marcellus".
"Mark" is a form of the name "Marcellus" and has the same meaning. Also see the female name "Markita" below. Modern interpretations of the adjective "warlike" are "aggressive" and/or "brave". "Brave warrior" or "aggressive warrior" may also be given as contemporary positive meanings for this name.
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
***
MARKITA; MARQUITA
How do I say my name in spanish? and what does it mean?
-Markita; 8/27/2006
Editor:
Markita, in order to translate a personal name to another language, you need to
know the meaning assigned to the name. The name "Markita" is a female form of the
Latin male name "Marcus" {Mark}. This name means "dedicated to Mars". Mars is the
Roman god of war. A modern translation of the name "Mark" is "one who is brave". Actually, your name sounds very Spanish-like to me. In Spanish, the "ita" ending means "little" {an affectionate term for a young loved one, and not related to size}. Therefore, your name "Markita" means "little, beloved brave one". Btw, in my opinion, the name "Marquita" is a form of Markita, and has the same meaning.
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
****
MARIAH- see the entry for Amariah
****
MARIBLE
What does my name mean?
-Maribel; 6/21/2006
Editor:
See this excerpt from this website: http://www.thinkbabynames.com/meaning/0/Maribel
"Origin and Meaning of the Name Maribel:
The girl's name Maribel is pronounced mare-a-BEL. Modern name: blend of Mary (Latin) "star of the sea" and Belle (French) "beautiful."
Maribel has 7 variant forms: Maribell, Maribella, Maribelle, Marybelle, Meribel, Meribella and Meribelle."
-snip-
Note that "Mary" is usually given the meaning "bitter" but I prefer the "sea" meaning of that name since it's a more positive meaning...Besides, I think "Mary" meaning "of the sea" or some such meaning has some validity since [if I remember correctly from the high school Spanish I took eons ago, "mar" means 'lake' in Spanish...
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
****
MARINA
i want 2 know the meaning of my name
-Marina; 8/9/2006
Editor:
The name Marina could have three established meaning
1. {Latin} "by the sea" ; "Marina" is a version of the female name "Marena"] ; this name has the same base as the English word "marine."
2. {Spanish} "the color 'brown' [a reference to hair or complexion] or "dark skinned";
"Marina" is a version of the female name "Morena"
3. {Irish Gaelic} "Marina" of the name is a form of the female name "Maureen";
"Maureen" has two meanings: "little Mary" or "dark skinned"
{"from the Moorish people"}
You can choose one of these three meanings for this name.
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
****
MARIO- see the entry for the name Jamario
****
MARSHINA
I would like to know if you can find a meaning for the name.. Marshina (female)...
Thank you,
-Judy G; 12/11/2007
Editor:
The feminine name "Marshina" is probably a form of the name "Marsha" {Marsh+ina}. The name "Marsha" is a feminine variant of the Latin masculine name "Marcus". Marcus is derived from the Roman god of war "Mars" and means "dedicated to Mars". A person who is dedicated to a god is considered to be under that deity's protection. In addition, that person is said to take on the characteristics of that deity. Therefore a person dedicated to Mars is "martial", meaning warlike. For the purpose of name meaning, one can say that a warlike person is strong and brave. Thus, the names Marcus, Mark, Marsha, Marcia and other variants of Marcus can be said to mean "strong & brave". The suffix {ending} "ina" in the name "Marshina" may have no meaning. "Ina" may have been combined with the name Marsha {with the "a" omitted} just to add uniqueness or because the person who created this name liked the way it sounded. However, sometimes "ina" serves as an affectionate diminutive that means "dear little [young] one". Thus, the name Marshina can be said to mean "dear, little one who is strong & brave"
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
****
MAYA
Maya is a Hindu {East Indian} female name whose meaning is usually given as "illusion". http://www.babynameworld.com/m.asp gives this meaning: "[the] divine creative force in everything". This name is usually pronounced "MAH-yah".
See this excerpt from http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Queen_Maya: "Queen Māyā was the mother of the historical Buddha Siddhārtha of the Gautama gotra, to whom she gave birth c. 563 BCE. "Māyā" means "illusion" or "enchantment" in Sanskrit and Pāli. Māyā is also called Mahāmāyā ("great Māyā") or Māyādevī ("Queen – literally 'goddess' – Māyā")."
****
MAXIMILLIAN; MAXINE
Editor: I received an anonymous request for this name. Here is some information:
"The boy's name Maximilian is of Latin origin, and its meaning is "greatest." The name of three Roman emperors and various saints. The name is popular in Germany. Actor Maximilian Schell.
Maximilian has 26 variant forms: Mac, Mack, Maks, Maksim, Maksym, Maksymilian, Massimiliano, Massimo, Max, Maxey, Maxemilian, Maxemilion, Maxie, Maxim, Maxime, Maximilian, Maximiliano, Maximilianus, Maximilien, Maximillian, Maximino, Maximo, Maximos, Maxy, Maxymilian and Maxymillian."...
http://www.thinkbabynames.com/meaning/1/Maximilian
-snip-
Actually this name has more than 26 variant forms or nicknames as is obvious by your name, anonymous visitor. Also, "Maxine" is the feminine form of the masculine name "Maximilian". Some of the nicknames for Maximilian {listed above} are also used for Maxine.
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
****
MCKENZIE
i (L) my name!!!i'm the only 1 in my skool wit that name but nick weber's sis haz the same name but she is married...!!!!!LOL LOVE YA!!!! thez r a few of my nicknames-mackie,kenz,kenzie mickey,mckenz
-Mckenzie; 4/8/2007
Editor:
See http://www.thinkbabynames.com/meaning/0/Mackenzie:
"The boy's and girl's name Mackenzie ... is pronounced ma-KEN-zee. It is of Irish and Gaelic origin, and its meaning is "fire-born; son of the wise ruler". The name's development was also influenced by Cainnech, meaning "good-looking". Originally a surname and male name, but actress Mackenzie Phillips has made it prominent as a masculine name for girls".
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
****
MARY
see the entry on this page for "Ola Mae" and the entry for "Maribel"
****
MAYUR
I would like to know the meaning of the name "Mayur"
-jey; 4/3/2008
Editor:
http://www.iloveindia.com/babynames/boy-m.html indicates that the name "Mayur" is a male Hindu name that means "peacock". It would be interesting to know what the peacock symbolizes in Hindu culture. For instance, is the peacock associated with Lord Krishna? This online web page seems to indicate that: Someone asked for suggestions of names associated with Lord Krishna that they could give a male. One response was "Mayur the Lord Who Has A Peacock Feathered-Crest". See: http://in.answers.yahoo.com/question/index?qid=20080128125454AADHTuK
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
****
MARJANI
Swahili female name; pronunciation: mahr-JAH-nee ; meaning: coral; language Swahili
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
****
MELS; MELOR
comment from allswellendswellf on http://www.huffingtonpost.com/pamela-redmond-satran/top-100-girls-names-...
"Quite a while back you'd see names like Mels or Melor among men in the USSR. Mels, was an acronym for Marx-Engels-Lenin-Stalin. Melor was Marx-Engels-Lenin-October-Revolution".
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
****
MELANIE
Greek; female name; meaning "dark"; "black"; has been said to mean "dark haired"
Sue Browder's New Age Baby Name Book {New York, Workman Publishing} provides this information about the name "Melanie": "Melanie" is particularly derived from Melanesia, the end of a region northeast of Australia, where the people are predominately dark-skinned. Melanesia literally means "black islands".
http://www.thinkbabynames.com/meaning/0/Melanie provides these variants for the name "Melanie": Malaney, Malanie, Mel, Mela, Melaina, Melaine, Melainey, Melana, Melanee, Melaney, Melani, Melania, Melanney, Melannie, Melantha, Melany, Mella, Mellanie, Melli, Mellie, Melloney, Melly, Meloni, Melonie, Melonnie, Melony and Milena
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
****
MICHAEL; MICHELLE; MICHAELA
http://www.thinkbabynames.com/meaning/1/Michael:
The boy's name Michael, also used as girl's name Michael, is pronounced MYE-kal. It is of Hebrew origin, and its meaning is "who resembles God?". Biblical: Michael is the archangel (chief or principal angel) who defeats the dragon. He and Gabriel are angels given personal names in the canonical Bible. Many saints, emperors, and kings have borne the name, and there are many variants, male and female. Micheal, the Gaelic spelling, is frequently used. This may be intentional, or it may be an accidental transposition of the "ae" vowels. Michael and Angelo are frequently blended in Latin-based language-speaking countries, as in Michelangelo Buonarroti, the Italian artist. Miguel (mee-GEL) is a Spanish and Portuguese form; Michel is French and popular in the Netherlands; Michiel (mee-KHEEL) is Dutch; Mikael, Mikell, Mikkel are Scandinavian; Michail, Mikhail are Russian; Michal is Polish; Miko is Slavic; Mikel, Miquel are Basque, French
-snip-
"Michelle" and "Michaela" are two feminine forms of the name "Michael".
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
****
M'LATAMOU
i would like to know what the name m'latamou means.and where did it come from. can you please help me. I have been searching all over to find out the meaning of this name.
-patrina; 9/5/2006
Editor:
Using the search engine Google, I found a few listings for people who have M'Latamou as a last name, for example this business woman: Loretta M'Latamou, owner or manager of Drake Realty, Inc. in Georgia {USA} at http://mlatamoulore.gamlsagents.com/.
The name "M'Latamou" sounds like the Mandinka male name "Mamadou" which is found in Senegal, Mali, and Guinea, West Africa. See this information on Mamadou Dia, the first prime minister of Senegal http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mamadou_Dia. Mamadou Diabete is a member of the hereditary Mandinka West African jeli [groit] musician family.
See http://www.mamadoukora.com/ . NBA basketball player Mamadou N'diaye is from Dakar, Senegal. Also see the entry for the name "N'diaye" on this page.
Also, Colonel (ret.) Tandja Mamadou (born 1938) is a Nigerian politician and that West African nation's current President. His name is sometimes reported as "Mamadou Tandja." Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tandja_Mamadou>
"Momodou" {which is often shortened to "Modou"} is a similar name from the Wolof language of Senegal {West Africa} and The Gambia, West Africa.
Many of the people of Mali, Senegal, and The Gambia are Muslim. For centuries these people have adopted Arabic names. These names have been transformed to better reflect the cultures and sound preferences of the Mandinka and Wolof speaking people. A distinctive element of these names is the addition of the "ou" suffix {ending}. Hence, you will find the names "Mamadou", "Momadou", and "Mahamadou" {see the link above for the occurrence of the name "Mahamadou"}. These specific names suggest to me that they are variants of the Arabic male name "Mohammad". Mohammad's meaning is meaning "the praised one". {see http://www.thinkbabynames.com/meaning/1/Mohammed}.
"Ahmad" and "Ahmed" are two Arabic variants of "Mohammad". Another variant of this name is the Arabic name "Mahmud" {also given as "Mahmoud}". Notice the similarity between "Mamadou" and "Mahmoud". All of these Arabic names have the same meaning as the name Mohammad. My hunch is that the African names Mamadou, Momodou, and Mahamadou are "Africanized" Arabic names which share the same meanings as other variants of the name Mohammad.
Historical records document the fact that a number of enslaved Africans in the Americas were Muslims and that some of them had Arabic names. These names could have been undergone changes overtime. Perhaps, "M'Latamou" comes from the Mandinka or Wolof languages of West Africa. Perhaps it means the same thing as "Mamadou". I don't know. Hopefully, someone who knows the Mandinka {Malinke} and/or Wolof languages will write in and share their thoughts about this.
-Wear your name proudly. Best wishes, Azizi!
****
MOHAMED; MOHAMMED
hello everybody i just wish to know the meaning of the name Mohamed. Thanks and Byeee
-Mohamed; 10/28/2006
Editor:
See this excerpt from http://www.thinkbabynames.com/meaning/1/Mohammed
"The boy's name Mohammed is pronounced moh-HAH-med. It is of Arabic origin, and its meaning is "praiseworthy." Name of the prophet and founder of the Islamic religion. See also Ahmed and Hamid. Boxer Mohammed Ali.
Mohammed has 13 variant forms: Mahmood, Mahmoud, Mahmud, Mahomet, Mehmood, Mehmoud, Mehmud, Mohamad, Mohamed, Mohamet, Mohammad, Muhammad and Muhammed".
-snip-
Actually, Mohammed has more than 13 variants. "Muhammad" and "Ahmed" listed above on this page are other variants of this name. And there are other variants of this name.
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
****
MOOKIE; MOKE
What does mookie mean?
-Mookie ; 7/24/2006
**
can you please give me the meaning and origin of the name Moke?
-K Agyapong ; 7/17/2008
Editor
Julia Stewart's book 1,001 African Names {Carol Publishing Group, 1996}, has a listing for this the name "Moke" {moh-KAY}. That editor indicates that in northern Zaire [Congo], "Moke" is frequently attached to male names to mean "junior, little, the younger of the two". For instance, if a man called Molaili had a son named Molaili, the son would be referred to as Molali Moke, meaning "little Molali".
In that sense, "Mookie" could be said to have the same meaning as the "American" nickname "Junior" or "Junie" {a male who has the same names as his father}.
The name "Moke" may have become "Mookie" in keeping with the once ubiquitous American practice of forming male or female nicknames by adding an "ie" or a "y" to personal names {Sally, Susie, Bobbie, Johnny, Ikey, Ronnie, Mandy, Lenny, Debbie, Lindy etc}. I have found a number of Internet references for the name "Mookie" that suggests that this nickname is given for several male personal names that begin with "M" {such as "Mike" and "Mark"}.
"Mookie" may be a form of the Hebrew male name "Moishe" or "Moses" which means "savior". "Mookie" may also be a nickname for the Arabic male name "Mustafa" {"Mustapha"} which means 'chosen'. It is also possible that for some people "Mookie" could have been created by rhyming the nicknames "Pookie" or "Bookie". Those affectionate nicknames are still given to males and females.
My bottom line is that if "Mookie" is your name {or nickname}, you get to choose the meaning for that name.
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
****
MUHAMMAD
"Muhammad" is an Arabic masculine name; meaning "Most highly adored, or most praised"; this name has numerous variations including "Ahmad" , "Ahmed"; "Mahmud" & "Mahmoud". It should be noted that in the late 20th century to date, many African Americans who are not Muslims and other non-Muslims have been given the name "Muhammad" or one of its variants.
Source: http://www.sudairy.com/arabic/masc.html
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
****
MUNA
Muna signifies " Child" in Duala, a language spoken in the Cameroons, West Africa.
Visit Ihttp://afrocubanlatinjazz.blogia.com/2010/032237-muna-mingole-dipita...hope-camerun-2008-173k-vbr-.php tp read more information about the Cameroons and about the Cameroonian/Canadian singer Muna Mingole.
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
****
MYKELL
Mykell is a contemporary American version of the male name "Michael".
Michael is a male and {sometimes also} female Hebrew name which means "Who is like God"}.
The implication is that no one is like God {as powerful, as wise etc.} and that God would especially favor and protect those who know this.
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
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MYLANI; MALANI
Hi, My granddaughter's name is Mylani would you have any idea of its meaning or where it originated? Thanks grandmother
-wanda; 2/24.2008
Editor:
Wanda, I'm not sure about the origin and meaning of the name Mylani. I recall meeting a young African American woman about 20 years ago whose name was Malani. She pronounced her name "mah-LAH-nee". I remember her telling me that her name was from Africa. However, a number of names are said to be from Africa which aren't traditional African or Arabic names. I'm wondering if your family pronounces the name "Mylani" like my-LAH-nee. Even though you don't pronounce Mylani the same way as the name Melanie is pronounced, it's possible that Mylani is a form of that name. See the meaning of the name Melanie on this page. It's also possible that this name was created to rhyme with the Swahili female name Marjani. See the meaning of Marjani on this page. Of course, Mylani could have been inspired by some other already existing name. Or it could have been created "from scratch". If so, your family can use your self-determination and creativity to come up with the meaning you prefer for the name "Mylani".
- Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
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NADIA
"Nadia" {NAH-dee-yah} is a female name which may have origins in both Europe and the Middle East. I have found three Arabic meanings of the name Nadia/Nadiah: 1}. "the beginning, first" http://www.amalid.com/html/arabic_female_names.htm ; 2} "announcement" http://www.sudairy.com/arabic/fem.html ; and 3} "laden with dew" Baby Names For The New Century {editor: Pamela Samuelson, Harper; 1994}.
Baby Names For The New Century also gives a Slavic origin for "Nadia" and lists its meaning as "promise". http://www.thinkbabynames.com/meaning/0/Nadia gives this related origin & meaning: "The girl's name Nadia is pronounced NAH-d'-yah. It is of Russian origin, and its meaning is "hope." A popular name in Russia. See also Nadine. Gymnast Nadia Comaneci; poet Nadezhda Mandelstam. Nadia has 14 variant forms: Nada, Nadege, Nadejda, Nadezhda, Nadie, Nadija, Nadiya, Nadja, Nady, Nadya, Nadyenka, Nadzia, Nata and Natka."
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
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NADINE
Would you be so kind as to advise me as to what country the christian name "Nadine" originates and also the meaning o the name. Thank you.
-Elizabeth W; 10/31/2006
Editor:
See this information from http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nadia_%28name%29 :
"Nadia (or Nadine) is a name commonly used in European and Arabic countries. In Europe (Slavic), it can stand for Hope, being a diminutive of the Russian name Надежда (Nadyezhda) with that meaning; Nadine is a French form of this diminutive. The name of Lenin's wife was also Nadia. In the Arabic world, the name Nadia is derived from the Egyptian word for 'The first dawn on a flower.' " Nadia also means "the caller" or "the announcer" in Arabic."
-snip-
See the entry for "Nadia" above for more information about that name.
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
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NAJEEB
Najeeb is an Arabic male name meaning "of noble descent"
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
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NALO
Nalo is a female name from the Senufo language of West Africa. "Nalo" means "loveable".
In the USA this name is pronounced "NAH-low"
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
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NANA
Among the different meanings for the word "Nana" are:
1. A Ghanaian title of respect that means "grandmother" . I've read that this name may also be given to males {in honor of their grandmothers?} http://www.ghanacommunity.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=2431
2. A Hindi word meaning "maternal grandfather". "Nana" also has other meanings in Hindi including "no".
http://in.answers.yahoo.com/question/index?qid=20070221053016AAWDBBQ
3. A Gujarathi word for "grandfather"
http://in.answers.yahoo.com/question/index?qid=20070221053016AAWDBBQ
4. A Telugu word meaning "father"
http://in.answers.yahoo.com/question/index?qid=20070221053016AAWDBBQ
5. A Hawaiian female name that is the name of a spring month http://www.thinkbabynames.com/meaning/0/Nana
6. A Spanish form of the name "Anna" {Anne}
http://www.thinkbabynames.com/meaning/0/Nana
7. A common English referent for "grandmother", probably from Ghanaian and other languages
"Nana" is usually pronounced "NAN-nah".
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
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NANDA
"Nanda" is a masculine name from the Sanskrit language {India}, "Nanda" means joy" ; see Priiya for more information
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
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NANDI
http://en.wiktionary.org/wiki/Appendix:Zulu_given_names -female Zulu name meaning "sweet"
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
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NARAYAN-
See the entry for "Ayan"
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SH'AH, NASH'AT
Arabic male name which means "Growing up, Youth"- http://www.sudairy.com/arabic/masc.html
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NASHALAE
i would really like it if i knew what my name meant
-nashalae; 10/13/2008
Editor:
The name "Nashalae" probably is a unique way of spelling the Latin name "Natalie", which means "birthday" and refers to the birth of Jesus Christ. See the entry for the name "Nashalie" below. To add to the uniqueness of this name, the "t" in Natalie could have been changed to "sh", and the "lie" {lee} pronunciation could have been changed to "lae" {which may be pronounced "lee" or "lee-ah}. Note that traditionally the name "Natalie" and its other forms were considered to be either female or male names. However, in the United States, this name is almost always given to females.
If you are male, your name could be a form of the Arabic male name "Nash'ah". See that entry above. It should be noted that regardless of whether you are male or female, some newly created names are formed from either male or female names or both. My position is that a newly created name can be given the same or similar meaning as the name or names from which it came. For instance, if the name Nashalae is a modern way or a creative way of spelling Natalie, it could have the same meaning as that Latin name. Or if the name Nashalae is a modern or unique way of spelling Nashah, it could have the same meaning as that Arabic name. If you are American, that newly created name could be said to be both Latin {or Arabic} and American. However, you could say that your name comes from both these names, and therefore you could say that name has a combination of both of those meanings. Or you could give the name Nashalae an entirely different meaning or meaning. Because it's your name, you can use your creativity and your self-determination to select the meaning that suits you best.
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
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NASHALIE
Please tell me the meaning of the name Nashalie
-Nirupa W.; 12/14/2006
Editor:
My guess is that this name is a form of the name Nathalie {Natalie}. See the entry for Natalie below.
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
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NASHIDA
Arabic female name which means "student"-http://www.sudairy.com/arabic/fem.html
This name could be said to mean "student of life" or "one who learns about life". Also see the male name "Nasih" below.
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NASIH
Arabic male name meaning "advisor, counselor"- http://www.sudairy.com/arabic/masc.html
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NASIR; NAASIR; NASEER; NASIRA
"Nasir" is usually given as an Arabic male name meaning "supporter , "protector". "victorious".
The female form of this name is usually given as Nasira.
See http://www.babynology.com/arabic/baby-names-boy_N_0_s.html# or http://www.sudairy.com/arabic/masc.html. Also see http://www.thenamemachine.com/baby-names-boys/Nasir.html for comments about this name, including the fact that the biological first name for Hip-Hop {Rap} artist "Nas", is Nasir.
Some women writing on that message board talked about their plans to name their daughters Nasira or Nasiria. See http://www.sudairy.com/arabic/fem.html for a listing of Nasira. "Nasiria" is probably a non-traditional, contemporary variant of that name. In my opinion, it would have the same meaning as Nasir and Nasira.
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
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NATALIE
I was just wondering if you could tell me what the name Natalie means, where it comes from, does it have a special ethnic or religious background Thank you.
-Natalie; 6/8/2006
Editor:
Natalie {Latin} means "born on Christmas." That female name is popular in many places in the world. It's male form is "Nathan". See this information from http://baby-names.adoption.com/search/Ove.html "Natalie- Gender- female; Origin- Latin; meaning: birthday, child born at Christmas; Variants: Nataly, Natalee, Nataleigh, Natalia, Natalya, Natala, Nataline, Nathalia, Nathalie, Noel, Noelle, Novella, Natasha, Natosha, Natashi, Tosha, Tosh, Natasa, Natashia, Natalja, Natassia, Nastassia, Natividad, Netty, Nettie, Natty, Tally, Tallie, Tasha, Talia"
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
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NATEARA
Hello, I was wondering if you could please help research the name Nateara. It's my friend's name but I can't really find it any where for the meaning. I'm really interest in meaning of names and I think this a interesting name to research. I think she said it was Native American if that helps. Thank you,
-Holly W.; 6/25/2006
Editor:
The New Age Baby Name Book {Sue Browder; Workman Publishing; New York, 1974} includes the female name "Nita". {which isn't the same as the nickname for "Anita" and "Juanita"}. In that book "Nita" is given as a Choctaw {American Indian} name which means 'bear". According to this website: http://www.kivatrading.com/symbol1.htm bears are important spiritual symbols to Native Americans. That website indicates that bears are "Directional Protector (West), physical strength, leadership, also frequently mentioned as "first helper", in creation/emergence stories"
Also, this may not be the source of your friend's name, but that same book includes the name "Nitara". "Nitara" is an East Indian {Sanskrit} female name that means "deeply rooted". Almost like the Choctow Indian name "Nita", the name Nitara evokes strength & endurance.
Note: It was uncommon-in the USA anyway- for people in the past used to "play" with the spelling of names just as a lot of people do now. So you'll often find different spellings for a particular name. Does that mean that Nitara or Nita are really the origin of the name "Nateara?" No. Can you either or both of those name meanings if you want to for the name Nateara? Why not?!
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
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NATASHA, NATASSIA, NATASYA- see entry for Natalie
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NAVEAH; NAVEA
This newly created name has become quite popular in the United States since at least the late 1990s, at least among African Americans. "Neveah" is usually given to females and is pronounced nah-VAY or nah-VAY-ah. Naveah is the word "heaven" spelled backwards. Given the popularity of this name among African Americans, my guess is that it is of African American origin.
-Wear your name well! Best wishes, Azizi
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N'DIAYE; NDIYA; NDAIYAH; NDIA; NAI'IAH
i would really like to know the meaning and origin of my first name
-N'Diaye; 9/27/2006
Editor:
The female names "Ndiaye", "Ndiayah" and other names with similar spellings may be related to the East & Central African KiSwahili name "Ndiya". According to the book Baby Names; Real Names With Real Meanings for African Children {editors Tyra Mason & Sam Chekwas: Seaburn publishing; 1997}, the female name Ndiya [n-DEE-yah} is from the Swahili language and means "generous".
-snip-
The KiSwahili name Ndiya may have come from the Arabic female name "Nada" which means "generous". Other similarly spelled Arabic female names are Na'ilah - Acquirer, obtainer, one who succeeds
and "Nadia", meaning "the beginning, first". [See http://www.ummah.net/family/fem.html for additional Arabic female names; Another meaning given for the Arabic name "Nadia" is "Moist; tender; delicate"
http://www.babynamesworld.com/meaning_of_Nadia.html]
N'Diaye may also a form of the frequently found Wolof last names "Njai" and "Njie". {Wolof is a language from The Gambia, West Africa and Senegal, West Africa}. I don't know what "Njai" and "Njie" mean. The name "N'daiye" may also be used as a male name in Wolof cultures. See an article about the famous Senegalese musician Doudou N'Diaye Rose at http://findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_m1310/is_1996_Sept/ai_18798925
I have heard the names "Ndiaye" and "Ndiayah" {with or without the "h" at the end} pronounced "n-DIE-yah" among a number of afro-centric African Americans.
For alternate origins & meanings for the name "N'daiye" the entries for the female names "Andaiye", and "Niyah" on this page. Also, see the entry for the name "Nadia" above.
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
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NGAI
See this excerpt from http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ngai: "Ngai (Enkai, En-kai, Engai, Eng-ai, Mweai, Mwiai) is the supreme God in the monotheistic religions of the Kamba, Kikuyu and Maasai tribes of Kenya. According to the Kikuyu tradition, he lives on the holy mountain Kirinyaga (Mount Kenya). According to the Kamba, he lives somewhere in a hiding and no one knows where."
Also, from that same website I learned that "The Ngai are an ethnic group in Vietnam and other Indochinese countries."
I know a mid 30 year old male African American who at birth was given the first name Ngai. He was told that the name was pronounced "n-"GUY".
I'm not sure if there is any connection between the West African name "Njai" and the East African name "Ngai". Certainly, various African ethnic groups migrated throughout the African continent. Migration could account for similarities in vocabulary. But these two name may not be related to each other at all. If someone reading this knows of any research regarding the connection if any between the Wolof and the East African ethnic groups, please share information about it here on Cocojams. Thanks!
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
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NIA
"Nia" is a KiSwahili word that means "purpose". This name has been used by African Americans as a personal name since its introduction in the late 1960s, early 1970s as the name of one of the 7 days of Kwanzaa. See http://www.officialkwanzaawebsite.org/index.shtml for information about Kwanzaa. The name "Nia" is usually given to females in the USA and is usually pronounced NEE-ah.
I would expand the meaning of this name to "One who knows what she wants to do and is succeeds in doing it".
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
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NIECY
"Niecy" is a nickname of African American origin for the female name Denise.
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishe, Azizi
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NICCI; NICOLE
Since one of the people who asked the question about the question about the name "Chanice" is named "Nicci" {Nicki}, I thought it was only fitting that I share some information about that name. "Nicci" {Nicki} is a female nickname for "Nicole". "Nicole" is the female form of the Greek male name "Nicholas" which means "victorious army" or "triumph of the people" {implying courage, strength, and success}. The male form of that nickname is usually spelled "Nicky".
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
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NILAH-See the entry for Nia & Niyah. Also see the 6/7/2006} comment from contributor Jihad in the entry for Airreon
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NIRUPA
http://www.indastro.com/babyname/hgirls.php?vr=NNirupa, Baby Names
Girls-Hindu, "Nirupa- a decree, command"
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
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NIYAH
I'm wondering what my name means it's Niyah and pronounced as Ni-yah. I'm not sure what nationality it is but I know it means somehting. So can you help mae figure it out. Thankx
-Niyah; 9/17/2006
Editor:
Niyah, thanks for trying to write the pronunciation of your name. Unfortunately, I'm still not sure how you pronounce it. If you pronounce Niyah this way: "nee-yah", then it probably your name is a unique spelling for the Kiswahili {Swahili} name "nia". See the entry for the name Nia above.
If your name is pronounced NI-yah {with the "Ni" rhyming with "by"; "eye", and "cry" etc}, then its origin {and therefore its meaning} becomes a lot more complicated.
It's my position that the name Niyah {if pronounced "nie-yah"} is a contemporary name that was created by rhyming an already existing name such as Maya {see that name entry above}. Or the name Niyah could have been created by taking clips {portions} of a similar spelled name {such as the name Nadiyah listed above}.
Or its possible that the name Niyah {if pronounced "nie-yah"} could have been created by simply combining the two elements "Ni" and "yah". Since the mid to late 1960s, the "yah" ending has been very "hot" , particularly among African American females. For instance, notice that ending in Arabic female names such as Aliyah {also written Aaliyah, Aliyyah, Aliah, Alia etc}. See http://www.sudairy.com/arabic/fem.html for other Arabic female names that end in "yah" such as Bahiyyah; Hadiyyah; and Rukaiyah {Ruquayah}.
All of these are possibilities, and there are probably more possibilities for the origin & meaning of the name Niyah {if pronounced nie-yah}. I'm leaning toward the rhyming with Maya theory, but I'd still use my self-determination to give this name the same positive meaning as the name "Nia". But that's just me. When it comes to names that have no established meaning, the person with that name {or the person giving that name to their child or to an adult} has a golden opportunity to select a positive meaning for that name. Whichever meaning you select, I encourage you to wear your name proudly!
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
Postscript: It also occurs to me that the names Niyah & Nilah may also have been created by rhyming the female name Tala {Tyla}. See the entry on this page for "Tala".
****
NONA; NONNY, NONNIE
[this comment was originally posted on http://www.mudcat.org/thread.cfm?threadid=93409&messages=9/]
"What sort of name is "Nonny"?
Thanks for asking. Nona {Latin}-the ninth {implying the ninth born child, if that child is a girl}; in Roman mythology, Nona was the name of one of the three Fates who spun the thread of life.
In compliance with the once ubiquitous practice of adding "ie" or "y" to personal names to create nicknames, "Nonny" & "Nonnie" are frequently used nicknames for "Nona".
-Azizi, 7/30/2006
Addendum to this post {see entries on this page for "Anona", "Rhiannon"; "Rhiana"}
Btw, I also know an African American pre-school girl named "Aniyah" whose nickname is "Nonnie" {pronounced "Nunnie". This goes to show that a person's nickname often does not have to come from one's name.
Researching this entry serves as a reminder to me {and to others} that in most contemporary cultures, there are no hard and fast rules when it comes to giving people "first" names and assigning nicknames for those names.
Thanks for reinforcing that lesson for me.
-Wear your name well! Best wishes, Azizi
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NOVARIA
my name is Novaira, i want to konw meaning of my name. thanks
-Novaira; 12/8/2007
Editor:
Novaira, I have found entries for your name as a surname {last name}, but I'm not sure about its origina and meaning. If I had to guess, I'd say that "Novaira" is of Latin, Italian, and/or Spanish origin. As to its meaning, "nova" means "new" and "aira" is a form of grass. So this name may be said to mean something like renewal of life and hope and all those kinds of things that are symbolized by "new grass" or springtime.
-Wear your name well! Best wishes, Azizi
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NOVE
HI, My daughters name is Nove I know that the name means new .But I would like to find out more about the name where it is from and its origin...
-Rena L; 5/11/2007
Editor:
The name Nove may come from the Latin word "novena". http://www.thefreedictionary.com/novena gives this information about the word "Novena": ..." Roman Catholic Church; A recitation of prayers and devotions for a special purpose during nine consecutive days". [origin] [Medieval Latin novna, from feminine of Latin novnus, nine each, from novem, nine; see new in Indo-European roots."
-snip-
Thus you are correct that your daughter's name means "new" {or perhaps "born anew"} . Perhaps the connection with new and nine was the belief that after the 9 days of prayer & devotion, the person was renewed in spirit. In recognition of the meaning of the Novena, you might give your daughter's name a meaning like "dedicated to God" or "we prayed for her" or some such meaning that alludes to the sacredness of the Novena prayer and devotional days.
Nove may also be a variant form of the female name "Naveah" or "Navea". This is particularly true if the name Nove is pronounced "nah-Vay" instead of "NOH-vay". See the entry on this page for NoveNaveah.
-Wear your name well! Best wishes, Azizi
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NOUSHABA; PERVEEN
...My first name is "Noushaba". My middle name is "Perveen". Both are Persian names. Noushaba means "Water of Life" & "Perveen" stands for a group of stars."
-Noushaba; {Paskitan}; 7/16/2006
Editor: Thanks, Noushaba, for sending in information on those two names.
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NYAHSE; NYASHIA
Hi!!! My name is Nyashe. What does it mean?
-Nyashe, 5/11/2007
Editor:
Particularly in the USA among African Americans, contemporary names are created by tweaking the spelling and look of a name whose sound one likes. One way to do this is to substitute a "y" for an "i". Another way to do that is to spell the name exactly as you think it sounds. A hyphen, or an accent mark, or a capital letter, may be added to a name to modernize and/or enhance its look. A prefix {a beginning element such as "la" or "de"} or a suffix {an ending element such as "ia" or "isha"} may also be added to give new life to old names or to add uniqueness to a name. In the United States, and some other nations that have a liberal attitude toward name creation, a traditionally male name can be given to a female, or changed slightly to make it a female name. A female name can be changed and given to a male, though this doesn't happen as often.
"Nyashe" is probably a female name. That name may be pronounced nee-AH-she. If so, this name may have come from the Swahili word Nia {NEE-ah}. The word "nia" has become familiar to many African Americans as it is the name of one of the seven days of the Kwanzaa holiday. Because of its "ah" ending, this word has been been transformed into a female name.
However, the name Nyashe may {also} be pronounced nigh-AH-she {with "nigh" rhyming with the English words "by" or "eye". http://www.swagga.com/n.htm includes the name NyAshia (Nih-AH-sha) in its list of African, and African American female names and gives its origin as Swahili and its meaning as "Beautiful African princess of purpose" . I believe that NyAshia is a newly formed {probably African American} female name whose meaning has been "made up", though it is based on the traditional meaning of the KiSwahili word "nia". However, there's nothing wrong with giving the meaning as indicated on the swagga website as long as you are aware that the name is {probably} relatively new and its meaning is not necessarily fixed.
It's also possible that the name "Nyashe" could have been created from someone who heard or saw the following Arabic male names: "Naseer" {Nasir} meaning protector or helper or victorious; "Nazeeh" meaning "pure, chaste", or "Naasih" meaning "advisor" .
Of course, these are only guesses. If anyone has any information about the name Nyashe, I hope that you will share it with me and other Cocojams readers.
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes. Azizi
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NYKHERI; NYERERE
I named my grandson Nykheri, could you tell me what that means... Thank you so much.
-Quinta; 10/21/2007
Editor:
The name Nykheri may be a form of the name "Nyerere". It's possible you may have gotten that name from Julius Kambarage Nyerere (1922-1999) who was the first president of Tanzania (1964-1985) and a former chairman of the Organization for African Unity {OAU}. According to The Journal of Blacks in Higher Education, No. 25 (Autumn, 1999), p. 19, the name Nyerere was given to him in honor of a Tanganyikan spirit of rain.
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes. Azizi
O,P
OLAF-see the entry for Ola Mae
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OLABISI
"Olabisi" is a male/female name meaning "honor/dignity" (or "wealth/riches") brings me joy. A common diminutive form of this name is 'Bisi".
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes. Azizi
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OLA MAE
What is the meaning of given. Ola Mae . Thank You
-James; 6/19/2008
Editor:
"Ola Mae" is what I call a double name {a personal name made up of two separate names}. This name used to be given quite often to African Americans and other females, particularly in the Southern states. Some sources indicate that "Ola" is a female form of the old Norse male name "Olaf." http://www.behindthename.com/nm/o.php indicates that Olaf is "From the Old Norse name Áleifr meaning "ancestor's descendent", derived from the elements anu "ancestor" and leifr "descendent"...
-snip-
However, the "Ola" part of "Ola Mae" may have come from the Yoruba {Nigeria, West Africa} language. In the Yoruba language, "Ola" means "honor/dignity" or "wealth"/"honor". The "Mae" part of that double name may have come from the name of the month of "May". "Mae" is also one of the many forms of the female name "Mary". http://www.thinkbabynames.com/meaning/0/Mary indicates that the name "Mary" "is of Latin origin, and its meaning is "star of the sea". Saint Jerome associated the Virgin's name with the Latin phrase "stella maris". Other possible meanings are (Hebrew) "wished-for child; rebellion; sea of bitterness".
-snip-
Using the Yoruba meaning of "Ola" in combination with one of the meaning given above for the name "Mary", the name "Ola Mae" can be said to mean "Wealth and honor comes to our family because of the birth of this child we have wished for".
See the entries for "Bolanle" and "Olajumoke" for two other Yoruba female names with the element "Ola".
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
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OLAJUMOKE
what is the meaning of Olajumoke and Sharon? Olajumoke is a Nigerian name from Yoruba part of Nigeria.
-Olajumoke S.; 6/2/2008
Editor:
There are numerous Yoruba male/female names that begin with the element "Ola". Ola means "honor/dignity" or "wealth/riches" in the Yoruba language. "Jumoke" is a male/female name that means "everyone loves the child". Therefore this name can be said to mean "everyone loves this child who brings wealth & riches". Source: Names From Africa-Their Origin, Meanings, and Pronunciation {Ogonna Chuks-orji; Chicago; Johnson Publishing Company, pps-14; 22 Female Section & pps 49; 63 Male Section; 1975} According to this book, "Ola" is pronounced "AW-lah". However, in the USA, it is usually pronounced "OH-lah". This book gives the pronunciation for "Jumoke" as joo-MOH-keh". That is the same pronunciation that is used in the USA. See http://www.20000-names.com/male_african_names_02.htm for two Yoruba names that
are made with the beginning element {prefix} "Ola".
I don't know if there is any connection at all between the Yoruba language and the Arabic language. However, I would note that the element "Ala" in Arabic means "noble; excellence" . This is very close to the spelling and meaning of the Yoruba element "Ola" which means "wealth/riches". See http://www.names4muslims.com/baby-boys.php?list=&name=%&page=3 for a number of names that include the "Ala" element.
See the "S" section for the meaning of the Hebrew name "Sharon".
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes. Azizi
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OLIVIA; OLIVER
http://www.thinkbabynames.com/meaning/0/Olivia: "The girl's name Olivia \o-li-via\ is pronounced oh-LIV-ee-ah. It is of Latin origin, and its meaning is "olive tree". Coined by Shakespeare as the name of a much-wooed aristocrat in his play "Twelfth Night" (1599). He may have derived the name from the olive plant, or as a feminine form of Oliver. Biblical: the olive tree is a symbol of fruitfulness, beauty, and dignity. Today, "extending an olive branch" traditionally signifies an offer of peace".
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes. Azizi
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OLUKAYODE
Good day to i would want to no the meaning of my surname it comes from a tribe in ijebu ode in ogun state in Nigeria
-K. Olukayode
Editor:
The element "Olu" in the Yoruba {Nigeria, West Africa} language means "God" as it is an abbreviation of one name for the Supreme God "Oluwa". The element "Kayode" means "he brought joy" or "he brought happiness". Your surname {last name} thus means: "God has brought me joy" or "God has given us happiness" {which means your family was happy about your birth}. Certainly, when used as a last name, "Olukayode" is male or female, but it seems {from various Internet sites such as http://www.onlinenigeria.com/nigeriannames/Default.asp?search=y&page=49 that most "Olu" names are unisex {either male or female}. By the way, that site has a large number of Nigerian names from various Nigerian languages. However, though your full last name was not listed on that site, the name "Kayode" was. The name was listed as "male, from the Yoruba language, meaning "God has brought joy".
Other sources that I used to research my response were Ogonna Chuks-orji: Name From Africa: Their Origin, Meaning, and Pronunciation {Chicago, Johnson Publishing Company, 1972; p. 50 for "Kayode" which is listed as a male personal {meaning first} name and pps.64, 65 for various male names {personal names} beginning with "Olu". The name "Kayode" is also listed in Molefi Kete Asante's The Book of African Names {African World Press, 1991, p. 50}
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
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OMARY ; OMARI; OMAR
This name meaning is given in response to a request from Omary. Also see this question:
Is Omari a Muslim or African name? What does it mean?
-Kim: 10/9/2006
Editor:
Islamic names are often called Muslim names. However, particularly in the United States, many people who have Arabic names aren't Muslim. Since the religion of Islam has been in the African continent for centuries, Arabic names may be considered to be "African names". However, there are some West African and East African versions of Arabic names. Often, Swahili speakers add an "i" to the end of Arabic names. Thus, in Swahili {a language "native to" East Africa and parts of Central Africa, the Arabic name "Omar" becomes "Omari". The American pronunciation is oh-MAR-ree. I'm not sure if the accent falls on the second syllable in Swahili.
The meaning of Omar is "Long life, first son, most high, the Prophet's follower"
Source: http://www.ummah.net/family/masc.html .
-snip-
"The most high" is refers to God {Allah}. The Prophet mentioned is Mohammad (peace be unto his name). The Arabic language and the Hebrew language are closely related, "Omar" is also a Hebrew personal name. See this information from http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Omar_(Bible):
"Omar ( [Hebrew] name meaning "eloquent") was the son of Eliphaz, Esau's eldest son in the Bible. His name is mentioned in Genesis 36:11".
Also see this information from http://www.thinkbabynames.com/meaning/1/Omar :
"The boy's name Omar is pronounced OH-mar. It is of Arabic and Hebrew origin, and its meaning is "speaker; flourishing, long-lived." Biblical: a sheik of Edom and son of Esau. Omar Khayyam (12th century) was a Persian poet, astronomer, and mathematician. Caliph Omar II made Islam an imperial power. Poet Omar Khayyam; General Omar Bradley; actor Omar Sharif."
-snip-
"Omari" {oh-MAR-ree} is a KiSwahili version of the name "Omar". "Omary" is probably a contemporary American version of that name {the letter 'y' is used instead of the letter 'i', perhaps to add a unique touch to that name}. The name "Omer" is also a version of the name "Omar". Amari, Amarion, and Omarion are all contemporary American varianst of the name Omari.
For non-Muslims, one could say that this name means "Long life, first son, eloquent, He who is most high {referring to God} the eloquent one, and one who follows God".
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
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OMARION
This is a great site and I am researching the name Omarion and it is a Arabic name and I want to know if this is a Muslim name or what type faith name it might be????.....Thanks so much for answering as I need to give info to my niece who named her baby this before really checking it out..thanks again.
-Trish W; 11/14/2006
Editor:
Trish, thanks for your compliment. This is fun work as opposed to the other work I should be doing right now :o)
The name "Omarion" is an American {probably African American} contemporary name which is based on the KiSwahili male name Omari. The name Omari is based on the Arabic male name Omar. See the entry on this page for Omari.
Omarion is probably pronounced {oh-MAH-ree-ohn}. The name's popularity can be directly attributed to the stage name of R&B singer Omarion. See http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Omarion : " Omarion (born Omari Ishmael Grandberry on November 12, 1984 in Inglewood, California) is an American R&B singer, actor, and the former lead singer of boy band B2K."
Also see this information from http://thebabynamewizard.ivillage.com/parenting/archives/2005/05/
which talked about the tremendous influence celebrity names have on personal names that folks chose or make up: "2002: Singing group B2K, featuring *Omarion (née Omari) debuts. (*Name Omarion instantly soars in 2002, soon followed by variants Amarion, Damarion, Demarion and Jamarion.)".
-snip-
The names Amarion, Damarion, Demarion, and Jamarion are probably of contemporary African American origin. In my opinion, the meaning given for Omari can also be given to the name Omarion and the other names that spring from it. Therefore, I would give the meaning of Omarion as "the first son, one who will have long life; one who is eloquent, one who follows the most high God."
In the case of "Jamarion", a person could give the meaning of Omari + the meaning of the name "Jamar". See the entry for Jamar above. Also, in the case of the names to Damarion and Demarion, a person could add the meaning given for Damian + the meaning for Omari . See the entry for Damian above. See how much fun this can be. And the beauty of it is that such name meanings adds self-esteem to children and to adults.
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
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OPRAH; OPHRAH, ORPAH; OFRA
"Oprah" is a female name that is a variant form of the Hebrew unisex name "Ophrah". The name "Ophrah" comes from the biblical name of a descendent of Judah {the Biblical man for whom the geographical place is named} and a city in Manasseh. http://www.20000-names.com/female_hebrew_names_02.htm#OPHRAH . Ophrah and its variants are complimentary names that mean "young fawn" or "young mountain". "Young fawn" implies innocence and gracefulness and "young mountain" implies power, strength, and energy that will last a long time.
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
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OSAMA-
See "Usama"
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OSEI
http://www.thinkbabynames.com/meaning/1/Osei : "The boy's name Osei \o-sei\ is of Ghanaian origin, and its meaning is "noble or honorable". Fante name".
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
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OTTANNA ; OTANA; OTHANA; OTAN
what is the origin and meaning of that name.
-Ottanna; 2/4/08
**
i would like to know the meaning and ethnicity of the name ottanna.i once heard it was an african name. thanks in advance for your help.
-kerisha; 11/30/2008
Editor:
"Ottana" happens to be the name of a "county" or municipality in Italy. See this Wikipedia entry: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ottana "Ottana is a comune (municipality) in the Province of Nuoro in the Italian region Sardinia"
-snip-
I'm not sure what the word "Ottana" means in Italian.
I think it's probably unlikely, but "Ottana" could be a form of the name "Otha" {see that entry below}. If indeed "Ottana" is derived from the African name "Otha", then that name can be said to mean "one who is slender". Interestingly, the word "Otona" has the entirely different meaning. See this excerpt from http://www.cjvlang.com/Writing/writjpn/signs/otona.html:
"Otona is a native Japanese word meaning 'adult'. In Chinese characters, it's normally written meaning 'large person' "
****
OTHAR; OTHA
Here's some information about the name Othar {Otha}:
"Othar" and "Otha" could be variant forms of the West African male name "Ottah" {O-TAH}". "Ottah" means "the thin one". This name is reported to come from the Urhobo speaking people of Nigeria. It is given to a male child who is born thin at birth. Source: Ogonna Chuks-orji: Names from Africa: Their Origin, Meaning, and Pronunciation (Johnson Publishing Company; 1972) and Sue Browder: The New Age Baby Name Book (Workman Publishing, 1987). Of course, another word for "thin" is "slender" and therefore "one who is slender" can also be used as this can be given as this name's meaning.
Btw, I've never met anyone by the name Otha, but in the early 1990s there was an African American male student whose name was "Otha" who attended the same university as my daughter.
If I were a betting person {which I'm not}, I'd bet that the Nigerian male name "Ottah" is the source of the African American male name "Otha". The change in spelling & pronunciation between these two names might be the result of time & cultural/ethnic sound preferences.
Another possible source for this name is the Old German male name "Otto" {and its variant forms "Otho", "Othello", and "Odo". Source: Bruce Lansky: The Best Baby Name Book {Meadowbrook, 1984}.
Besides, this Old German name means "rich" . And some would say that is a "better" meaning than the African meaning "the thin one".
So when it comes right down to it, I'm not really sure what name is the source for the name "Othar" or "Otha". Maybe it's Ottah. Maybe it's Otto. Maybe it's both names. Or maybe it's an entirely different name.
What do you think?
Special thanks to Tweed for hipping me to African American fife musician Othar {Otha}Turner. See http://www.shs.starkville.k12.ms.us/mswm/MSWritersAndMusicians/musicians... for information about this musician. Also, Cocojams' readers interested in Blues music, be sure you check out http://tweedsblues.net/ ]
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
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PAMELA
The female name "Pamela" is of Greek origin and means "all-honey" {implying a woman with a sweet disposition}. Sue Browder, editor of The New Age Baby Name Book {originally published in New York, 1974, 1987 edition}, writes "This name was actually invented in the sixteenth century by Sir Philip Sidney, the poet who also created the name Stella. [Versions of Pamela are] Pam, Pammela, Pamelina, Pammi, Pammie & Pammy."
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
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PATRINA
what does the name Patrina mean
-Sonia; 11/16/2006
Editor:
http://www.thinkbabynames.com/meaning/0/Patricia lists the name Patrina as a variant form of the female name Patricia. The name Patricia is of Latin origin, and its meaning is "noble; patrician." Patricia is a feminine form of Patrick. Other related names that are listed on that site are: Pat, Patreece, Patreice, Patrice, Patricka, Patrisha, Patrisse, Patrizia, Patryce, Patsy, Patte, Pattee, Pattey, Patti, Pattie, Patty, Tricia, Trish and Trisha.
Also see this origin & meaning for Patrina that was listed under girls names beginning with "P": on http://www.babiesonline.com/babynames/girlbabynames/girlbabynamesP.asp, Welsh Of noble birth, one of purity, and beloved. (Submitted by Babies Online Member)
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
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PATRICIA
"Patricia" is a female name that contains an element that is similar to "ticia". That name's comes from the Latin language and means "noble woman". The "ticia" element could have come from the name contemporary name Latisha which I believe is a modern form of the name "Leticia" or "Letitia" {origin-Latin; meaning-joy}. So already you have several options for the meaning of part of your name- "one who is noble" or {and} "one who is joyful" or "one who brings us joy".
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
****
PERVEEN-see the entry for Noushaba
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PIA
I just want to know what is the meaning of the name Pia and what could be the correspondant nicknames.
-Pia; 1/15/2007
Editor:
http://www.thinkbabynames.com/meaning/0/Pia: "The girl's name Pia is pronounced PEE-ah. It is of Latin origin, and its meaning is "pious, reverent".
-snip-
Also see this information from http://www.behindthename.com/nmc/rom-late.php: Pia- Gender f -language sources: English, Italian, Scandinavian, German, Polish, Late Roman
meaning Feminine form of Pius";
**
Pius- male; Late Roman; Late Latin name meaning "pious, dutiful". This was the name of 12 popes.
-snip-
Pia, I don't believe that there is any standard nicknames for your name. However, nicknames based on a person's first, middle, or last name are only one way that a person can receive a nickname.
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
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PRIYA; PRIIYA
can anybody tell me what is the meaning of Priiya Nandhini...
-Priiya; 10/25/2007
Editor:
See http://www.behindthename.com/name/priya: "Gender: Feminine; Usage: Indian, Hindu Mythology... Means "beloved" in Sanskrit. In Hindu legend this is the name of a daughter of King Daksha."
****
See http://www.behindthename.com/name/nanda: "Gender: Masculine; Usage: Indian, Hindu Mythology
Means "joy" in Sanskrit... In Hindu texts this is a name of both Vishnu and the foster-father of Krishna, as well as various other characters. In Buddhist texts this is the name of a god and a disciple of Buddha. Nanda was also the name of a 4th-century BC king who founded a dynasty in Magadha in India. "
-snip-
I'm guessing that "Nandhini" is a feminine form or another variant of the name "Nanda". If so, the name Priiya Nandhini means something like "the beloved one who is joy" or "the beloved one who brings joy"
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
Q,R,S
QUATICA
What does my name mean? Quaticia Lachell
-Quaticia; 10/2/2006
Editor:
Thanks for your question. Let's consider these two names separately. See the entry for Lachell under the "L" section.
In my opinion, the name "Quaticia" is a contemporary {probably female} American name. This name probably was created by combining the elements {parts of the name} "Qua" with the element "ticia". The name Quaticia probably doesn't have any established meaning. But you could give it a meaning. One way to do that is to check out the meanings of names that are spelled similarly to your name. You then can "adopt" one or more of those name meanings whole cloth, or you can play with those name meanings, tweaking the meanings and creating one that you like the best.
I'm wondering if you pronounce your name "kwah-TISH-ah". Let's start with the "kwah" beginning sound. There are a number of contemporary names that begin with the element "Qua". In my experience, these names have usually, but not always, been given to African Americans. "Qua" is usually pronounced "kwah". The "Qua" element may have originated in the Akan {Ghana, West Africa} day names such as "Kwame {male born on Saturday}, "Kwabina" {male born on Tuesday}, and "Kwaku" {male born on Wednesday}. See http://www.answers.com/topic/akan-name for more information on Akan day names. So that a contemporary meaning of that "Qua" sound would be something like "person" {"a human being", "one who is "alive"; "a soul"}.
The elements "Quay" {pronounced "kway" and "Quan" {pronounced "kwan"} also are being used to create a number of contemporary African American and other American names {like Quayshon, Quante, Quaylin}. I believe that these names are the result of African Americans being introduced to Vietnamese names {because of the immigration of Vietnamese to the USA and the integration of Vietnamese children and African American children in urban public schools. The element Quay may have been "borrowed" by African Americans from the Vietnamese female & male name "Qu 'y" {meaning precious} and the Vietnamese name "Quye^ n" {meaning a kind of bird}. http://www.adoptvietnam.org/vietnamese/names-girls.htm .
So, if you consider the fact that "Quaticia" could be a version of Quayticia or Quanticia, you could use either or both of those meanings for the beginning of your name.
Or as an alternative meaning, you could use the meaning of the Irish female name "Caoilfhionn" (f) KEE lin, KWAY linn Keelin, Kaylin, Caoilinn, Caoileann -fair and slender
See http://www.namenerds.com/irish/meaning2.html
So what does your name "Quaticia" mean? You tell me.
Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
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QUAYLIN
what is the meaning of the name Quaylin?
-Quaylin; 1/6/2007
Editor:
See this information from http://www.thinkbabynames.com/meaning/0/Katherine:
"Katherine, pronounced KATH-rin, KATH-er-rin. It is of Greek origin, and its meaning is "pure". From the word "katharos". A name in use since at least the third century AD. The early Latin forms Katerina and Caterina became Katharine and Catherine. The French Cateline and English Catlyn came into wider use during the medieval period, and variant spellings and forms were endless.
Katherine has 192 variant forms [including]: Caitlin, Caren, Cari, Carin, Caryn, Carynn, Cass, Cassey, Cassi, Cassie, Cat, Catherine, Catheryn, Cathie, Cathleen, Kaitlin, Kaitlinn, Kaitlyn, Kaitrin, Kaitrine, Kaitrinn, Kaitrinna, Kaitriona, Kaity, Karen, Karena, Kari, Karin, Karon, Karri, Karrin, Karyn, Karynn, Kasia, Kasienka, Kasja, Kaska, Kasya, Kass, Kathryn, Kathryne, Kathrynn, Kathy, Kathyrine, Katrina, Katrine, Katriona, Katrionagh, Katrya, Katryna, Katushka, Katy, Katya, Kay, Kaye, Kaylin, Kit, Kittey, Kitti, Kittie, Kitty, Rina, Trina, Trinchen, Trine, Trinette, Yekaterin and Yekaterina"
-snip-
Quaylin may also be a combination of the female names "Kay" [from "Katherine" or "Catherine'] and "Lynne" {or "Lin" from "Linda" which is Spanish for "pretty"}.
For another alternative meaning, see this excerpt [with minor changes] from the comment I wrote about the name "Quaticia":
"The elements "Quay" {pronounced "kway" and "Quan" {pronounced "kwan"} also are being used to create a number of contemporary African American and other American names {like Quayshon, Quante, Quaylin}. I believe that these names may be a result of African Americans being introduced to Vietnamese names {because of the immigration of Vietnamese to the USA and the integration of Vietnamese children and African American children in urban public schools. The element Quay may have been "borrowed" by African Americans from the Vietnamese female & male name "Qu 'y" {meaning precious} and the Vietnamese name "Quye^ n" {meaning a kind of bird}. http://www.adoptvietnam.org/vietnamese/names-girls.htm ...
For still another alternative meaning, you could use the meaning of the Irish female name "Caoilfhionn" (f) KEE lin, KWAY linn Keelin, Kaylin, Caoilinn, Caoileann -fair and slender
See http://www.namenerds.com/irish/meaning2.html
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
****
QUINTA; QUINTEN; QUINTIN
I have a very unusual name, and never have I met anyone with the same name. Would you tell me what the name "Quinta" means?
-Quinta G.; 10/21/2007
Editor:
Quinta, your name is probably a female version of the masculine name Quinten. See this information from http://www.thinkbabynames.com/meaning/1/Quentin : "The boy's name Quentin \qu(en)-tin\ is pronounced KWEN-tin. It is of Latin origin, and its meaning is "fifth". Quent and Quint are short forms."
-snip-
A male given the name Quinten was either the fifth born son or the fifth born child. Many personal names in the USA are given to children because of the way the name sounds and not because of what the name means. Whoever gave you the name "Quinta" used their creativity to make a female version of that male name.
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
Btw: Quinta, see the entries above for the other names you sought information about-Jamel and Nykheri. I also posted an entry for your middle name LaShea.
****
RAKIM; RAKEEM
i believe that the male name "Rakim" (alternate spelling "Rakeem") is a post 1960s neo-Arabic name creation that was constructed by African American who combined the Arabic masculine names Hakim (Hakeem) and Karim (Kareem). Alternatively, the name "Rakim" could have been created by just substituting the "H" in the name "Hakim" for a "R".
I believe that the meaning for the name "Hakim" (wise) and/or the meaning for the name "Karim" (generous, noble, friendly, precious, and distinquished) can be used as the meaning for the name "Rakeem". Therefore, the name African American derived name "Rakim" can be said to mean "one who is wise, generous, noble, friendly, precious, and distinquished
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
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RAHM; RAM
http://www.thinkbabynames.com/meaning/1/Rahm : The boy's name Rahm \ra-hm\ is a variant of Ram (Sanskrit, Hebrew), and the meaning of Rahm is "pleasing; supreme".
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
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RAJEEV
can anybody tell me what is the meaning of Rajeev Dev?
-priiya; 10/25/2007
Editor:
See http://babynames.indastro.com/Suggested%20HindutwomR.html: Rajeev, Hindu masculine name meaning "Blue lotus".
-snip-
In order to understand this meaning, consider the spiritual meaning of both the color "blue" and the "lotus" flower in Hindu culture.
Also, see http://www.behindthename.com/php/view.php?name=dev: "Dev; Gender: Masculine; Derived from Sanskrit देव (deva) meaning "god"."
-snip-
Therefore Rajeev Dev means something like "the spiritual one"; or "one who is Godlike in his thoughts & actions"
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
****
RASHAN; RASHAAN; RASHON; RASHAWN; RASHAUN
Each of these names are probably contemporary American forms of the Arabic male name "Rashad"
http://www.sudairy.com/arabic/masc.html gives this meaning for the name Rashad: "Integrity of conduct, maturity, wisdom". Also, see the name "Rashed" below
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
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RASHED; RASHEED; RASHID
I want know the meaning of my name. My name is Rashed. Could u pls.let me know
the meaning of it. It is deadly urgent for me. Thanks
-Rashed; 8/28/2006
Editor:
Rashed, your name is a form of the Arabic masculine names Rashad {meaning "Integrity of conduct, maturity, wisdom" and "Rashid" {meaning "One of good council; rightly guided, wise, having true faith"}
See this link for meanings of other Arabic male names: http://www.sudairy.com/arabic/masc.html
-snip-
And now that I've responded to your request, Rashed, I want to say this to you and to others:
While I think that it can be interesting and fun to know the origin & meanings of your name and other names, I hope that it is not something that people see as a life or death matter. Some names have assigned meanings. And some names don't. Some names have positive meanings. And others don't.
So what do you do if your name doesn't have any meaning? I think you can either forget about the whole concept of name meanings {since name meanings aren't considered to be important in most cultures nowadays anyway}. Or you could use your self-determination and creativity and think up a meaning you like, and that fits you-for your name.
But if your name has an assigned meaning and it's not great, or it doesn't fit you, what do you do? Well, if you like the sound of your name, and you think your name fits your personality and image, then you can forget about that ole assigned meaning, and forget about the idea of names having any meanings. Or you can give a different meaning to your name. Why not? There's no law against it {at least none that I know of}.
What I am trying to say is I'm hoping that people want to learn about name meanings because this subject is interesting and fun. While I believe that a positive meaning for a name can help build up a person's self-esteem, learning about name meanings should never be a deadly urgent matter.
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
****
RASHIDA; RASHEEDA
Because it is the female form of the male Arabic name "Rashid", the name Rashida {Rasheeda} has the same meaning as that name-"One of good council; rightly guided, wise, having true faith"
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
****
RAVEN
What does Raven mean Where did it arrive other than the bible.
-Raven; 1/25/2007
Editor:
The raven is a black bird. See this information from http://www.houseofnames.com/xq/asp/keyword.raven/qx/symbolism_details.htm about the meaning of the raven:
"As the collector of bright objects, the raven stands as a symbol of knowledge. It is also an emblem of divine providence. The raven is said to be a Danish device used as a heraldic symbol very early in history. Visually, no differentiation is made between the symbols of a raven, a rook or a crow. The symbol of the crow signifies that the bearer is someone who is watchful and vigilant for friends..."
-snip-
The raven is also an important symbol in Native American folklore. Here's an excerpt from http://www.northwestcoastnativeartists.com/artists/symbolsdetail.php?rec... :
The Raven is the transformer, trickster and creator. Known in legends as the one who released the sun, moon, and stars; discovered man in a clamshell; brought the salmon and the water; and taught man how to fish and hunt.
Raven in Kwaguilth culture is known as the sky messenger of the animal kingdom. The Raven is famous for being a somewhat mischievous glutton. He was always out to please himself and have a good time, but his adventures always ended up bettering mankind."
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
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RAQUAHN; RAQUAN; RAYHAN
I want to find out what Raquahn means. Name meanings are very important to me
-Ron P; 1/24/2007
Editor:
I believe that "Raquhan" & "Raquan" are contemporary American variants of the Arabic male name "Rayhan".
http://www.2muslims.com/directory/Detailed/219300.shtml and other online resources give that name meaning as "favored by Allah". This name meaning can be translated as "favored by God".
The name "Raquahn" could also have been created by combining the male name "Ray" and the male name "Quan. "Ray" is a widely used nickname for the male name "Raymond". Raymond is an English name meaning "mighty protector". http://www.20000-names.com/male_q_names.htm has this information: Quan- "Chinese male name meaning "spring (of water)." ; Also a martial arts term meaning "fist." ; a Vietnamese name element meaning "soldier, warrior."
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
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REMETRIA
What does my name mean? Thank you.
-Remetria; 2/13/2007
Editor:
My guess is that Remetria is a female contemporary name that was made by rhyming the name
Demetria. See the entry for that name above.
By the way, newly created names usually have no established meaning. If the name is similar in spelling or pronunciation to an already established name, including if the name might have been created through rhyming, you could use the meaning of that established name. Or you could use your self-determination and creativity and come up with another positive meaning for that newly established name.
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
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REMY
"Remy" is a male name of French origin from from Rheims, a town in central France.
The Big Easy. Set in New Orleans, Louisiana, this 1987 flick starred Dennis Quaid as the Cajun cop Remy McSwain-
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
****
RHIANNON; RHIANA; RHIANNA
Hi I would like to know where the name rhianna originates from and what is the meaning behind it thank you Rita xx
-Rita; 12/2/2007
Editor:
This comment is excerpted [with a few minor corrections] from a comment that I wrote on the Mudcat discussion thread about the name Nonny and other names. The link to that thread is
http://www.mudcat.org/thread.cfm?threadid=93409&messages=9/
It turns out that one nickname for Rhiannon {Rhiana} is "Nonny"; "Nonnie". This is a reminder to me not to be an absolutist about the origin and meaning of names. I should have remembered that there are often names [and other words] with same spelling or similar spelling in different languages which have completely different meanings. And nicknames often are given that appear to have little or nothing to do with the spelling or pronunciation of a person's name.
Which leads me to the name Rhiannon. I googled that name, and found this website http://www.goddessgift.com/goddess-myths/goddess_rhiannon.htm and read this myth:
"Rhiannon, Celtic goddess of the moon and inspiration, the enchanting fairy princess who rode so swiftly that no horseman could catch her, loved and chose to marry a mortal king of Wales.
Accused of murdering their infant son, Rhiannon bore her humiliating punishment with a grace and dignity that melted the hearts of her adopted countrymen.
Eventually proven innocent, Rhiannon was reunited with her husband and son and restored to her throne.
Later the Celtic goddess Rhiannon became the famous Lady of the Lake who, in the legends of Camelot, gave Arthur the magical sword called Excalibur."
-snip-
I also found the similarly spelled Arabic name "Rihana" {variants: Rhiana, Rhianna; Riana, Rianna} in a number of baby books on names. It turns out that the literal meaning for the name "Rihana" is "sweet basil."
Interested in what basil signifies? Read the information on
http://www.sallys-place.com/food/columns/gilbert/basil.htm.
A woman with the name Rhiannon, Rihana, Rhiana, Rhianna; Riana, Rianna could therefore say that they are named after the Celtic goddess. A woman with these name also say that her name means "sweet basil" {and when people get a blank look on their face, that woman can also impress people by sharing information about what that herb signifies}.
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
****
RHONDA
What does my name mean? Also, what does the name Ladez mean?
Rhonda; 10/18/2006
Editor:
See information about the name "Ladez" under "L"
With regard to the name "Rhonda", see this excerpt from http://www.thinkbabynames.com/meaning/0/Rhonda
"The girl's name Rhonda is pronounced RON-dah. It is of Welsh origin, and its meaning is "good lance." Since the name only became popular in the 20th century, it also possibly derives from the name of the River Rhondda, meaning "noisy", in Wales. In the US, there is a well-known Beach Boys' song, "Help Me, Rhonda!"...
-snip-
Most websites on names say that Rhonda means "good spear". My sense is that this name probably refers to the person carrying the spear being good at using it, hence the meaning would be "a woman who is good or skilled in battle." Personally, I would disregard the second meaning given since it seems to be seldom used, and because it's not positive.
A contemporary meaning for "good spear" is "a strong female who is able to defend herself".
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
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RIMA ; REEMA; REEMAH; RIM; REEM
1."Rima" (pronounced REE-mah) is an Arabic female name that means "white antelope". A related Arabic female name is "Rim", "Reem" which means "Gazelle" (http://www.sudairy.com/arabic/fem.html)
An antelope is probably a symbol of beauty and gracefulness. A white antelope is probably a symbol of spiritual purity and physical grace/beauty. Here's some additional information about what the antelope symbolizes:
"The antelope, which is also referred to as an ibex or a springbok, has three main symbolic meanings. It represents someone who is skillful at music and a lover of harmony, someone with a keen mind for politics and the ability to foresee times and opportunities well, and lastly, a person who is unwilling to assail his enemies rashly, who would prefer to stand his ground than risk harming another wrongfully. Thus the antelope signifies harmony, polity and peace. The antelope has also been used occasionally as an emblem of purity and fleetness"...
http://www.houseofnames.com/xq/asp/keyword.antelope/qx/symbolism_details...
2. "Rima" (pronounced REE-mah) is a Spanish female name meaning "rhyme" . It's extended meaning is "poetry". (http://www.thinkbabynames.com/meaning/0/Rima)
Given these two meanings, the name Rima (Reema) can be said to mean something like poetry in motion and/or "beautiful, graceful lover of harmony"
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
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ROMINA
The name "Romina" is an ancient name meaning "Tribute to Rome" or for the country of Romania Meaning " The blood of Romania" they are both names of great importance. My grandma told me what the name means but i am not to sure if that is true.
-Romina,
**
I've what to know what my name means? I'm Romina.
-Romina; 11/10/2006
Editor:
I have found "Romina" given as an Italian {Latin} female name. http://www.behindthename.com/bb_gen/arcview.php?id=36567/ gives this meaning for the name "Romina": "little Rome" [as 'ina" is a suffix-name ending-which means 'little"]. In this context "little" is often a term of affection used by an older person for a younger person. This term doesn't necessarily refer to size. Btw, the person who asked the question about that name indicates that it is the name of a singer, Romina Power.
The 1941 book What Shall We Name The Baby {edited by Winthrop Ames}, doesn't include the name "Romina". However, it does include the name Romola and indicates that "Rome" means "the strong {one}. Therefore, the name Romina could be said to mean "the strong one who we love".
However, the meaning that your grandma gave you may also be true since its my opinion that-at least in this day & age, a personal name can mean what we say it means.
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
****
RONICA ; RONIKA
Hello, i have always wondered what my name means. I found out that it is latin but i have been looking on the internet for the latin meaning of it and can not find it. If you could help me id really appreciate it, Thank you.
-Ronica P.
Editor:
Many contemporary male and/or female names have been created by adding a prefix {a beginning element} or a suffix {an ending element} or both a prefix and a suffix to traditional names. "ica" is a relatively familiar suffix for female names in the United States. The suffix "ica" {pronounced "ekah" which rhymes with "we" kah} is added to a male name to create a female version of that name. This suffix is similar to the ending "icia" in the name "Patricia" . "Patricia" is a female form of the name "Patrick". These types of names are often given to a daughter to commemorate the connection that the father and daughter have with each other. Of course, these masculine names may be given to a baby girl just because the person giving the name likes how it sounds. In the 1970s, it became quite common particularly among African Americans for the suffix "ica" to be spelled to "ika". This may be because this spelling was felt to add more uniqueness, and a bit of "Afrocentricity" to the names which were created. In the context of contemporary {post 1960s} American names, the suffix ica or ika have no meaning. Therefore, in trying to determine the meaning of a contemporary American name that ends with "ica" or "ika", my suggestion is to only look at the beginning name or element.
http://www.uib.no/People/hnohf/elfnam.htm provides this meaning for "Ron, Ronald: From Reginald, an old Germanic name composed of the elements *ragina- "judgement, council" and *waldan "to rule", thus meaning "ruler of judgement" or simply "judge".
-snip-
A number of name websites give the meaning of Ronald as leader, or ruler, king, or king's counsel {advisor/lawyer}. Ronica {Ronika} has the same meaning as Ronald. Therefore, Ronica and Ronika is a status or royalty name which means "a woman who is a leader, ruler, queen, or queen's counsel.
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
****
RUSSELL
"Russell" is a name which is used as a first name [forename/personal name] and a last name [surname].
http://genealogy.about.com/library/surnames/r/bl_name-RUSSELL.htm gives this origin & meaning of this name:
"Definition: A patronymic name derived from the given name "Rousel," old French for someone with red hair or a red face. Surname; Origin: English, Scottish, Irish "
-snip-
"Patronymic" [adjective] means "Of, relating to, or derived from the name of one's father or a paternal ancestor {father}.
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
****
SADE
I am Sade and I would want to know what my name means and what language it is.
-Sade; 9/14/2006
I would really like to know what my name means. I'm named after the famous singer Sade.
-Sade; 6/5/2007
Editor:
The name "Sade" [usually pronounced sha-DAY] is a clip [part] of the Yoruba language of Nigeria, West Africa name "Folasade". According to Ogonna Chuks-orji, Names From Africa, Their Origin, Meaning, And Pronunciation {Johnson Publishing Co, 1975}, this name means "honor confers {gives} a crown". "Crown" here means the tiara that queens wear. This book indicates that the traditional pronunciation for Folasade is "faw-lah-shah-DEH". However, the American pronunciation of the name Sade is "shah-day". This is the way the pop singer Sade pronounces her name. The 'real name' of the Nigerian born singer "Sade" is Helen Folasade Adu.
See http://people.africadatabase.org/en/person/3423.html for information on the singer Sade.
Also see information on the name "Sadie" below.
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi.
****
SADIE
The female name "Sadie" [pronounced SAY-dee] is a form of the Hebrew female name "Sara" {Sarah}. "Sadie" is pronounced [say-de]. The meaning of the name Sarah and all its variants is "princess".
See http://www.babynameworld.com/s.asp for the origin & meaning of Sadie.
Perhaps its a coincidence that the female names Saida, Sade, and Sadie are spelled & pronounced almost alike and have similar meanings. I don't know enough about etymology, history, and other such subjects to say if these names are connected and if so what the connection is. Names that are spelled the same and pronounced and have similar meanings may not originate from the same source. But then again, they might be related. If someone has done any research on this, I'd love to post their findings.
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi.
****
SAIDA
The female name "Saida" is of Arabic origin; meaning- the fortunate one; The American pronunciation is sah-EE-dah
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi.
****
SAINABOU
hey i was wondering if yall knw tha meaning of my name..all i know is that itz african but i dont know the meaning...thankz
-Sainabou; 12/9/2006
Editor:
"Sainabou" is a West African {Gambian & Senegalese} form of the Arabic female names "Zainab" {"Zaynab"} and/or "Zaina". Zainab & Zaynab means "fragrant flowering plant" and Zaina means "beautiful". For more information, see the entries for those names on this page.
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi.
****
SALAH; Sala;
Male Arabic name; "Salah - Righteousness"
Source: http://www.sudairy.com/arabic/masc.html
-snip-
Pronunciation: SAH-lah
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi.
****
SALAH AL DIN; SALADIN
Male Arabic name; from "Salah al Din - Righteousness of the Faith; name of the Muslim leader who liberated Jerusalem from the Crusaders"
Source: http://www.sudairy.com/arabic/masc.html
-snip-
"al Din", sometimes written "udin", means "of the Faith". "Faith" here is a reference to Islam. See this Wikipedia page on Saladin: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saladin
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi.
****
SAMARJIT
Hi, i'm looking for the meaning of the name Shanica, i love the name , and had read it in a book many years ago, in fact i named my daughter Shanica. Now people ask her the meaning of her name ,and i can't give her an answer. I am originally from India, and have the name Samarjit, people ask me about my name as well, my uncle named me, that's all i know.
Editor:
See the entry below for Shanica. For the meaning of Samarjit, see this information from http://utopianvision.co.uk/services/indian-names/?cat=&letter=S
{Names from India}: Samarjit m, meaning: Victorious in war.
http://www.findyourfate.com/numerology/babynames/indiannames2.html also has the same origin, gender, & meaning for that name.
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi.
****
SAMIYAH; SAMIYA
"Samiyah-"Elevated, exhalted, lofty"
Source: http://www.ummah.net/family/fem.html
Pronunciation: sah-MY-yah
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi.
****
SAMIRA; SAMEERA
http://www.ummah.net/family/fem.html {a website on Arabic female names} gives this meaning for : Samira, Sameera - Entertaining female companion. Also see the entry for the name "Shamara".
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi.
****
SANDILE
http://en.wiktionary.org/wiki/Appendix:Zulu_given_names [South Africa] (m/f) - "we have increased"
See that website for a list of other Zulu names.
Among Zulu-speakers, the name Sandile is used for both girls and boys, and means ‘the family is full’ or ‘that is enough.’"
[Thanks to Richard 4/25/2007 from South Africa for this information]
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi.
****
SAQUITA
i am curious to know what may name means if it means anything at all. Thank you for your time.
-Saquita S.
Editor:
I was not able to find the name "Saquita" listed under female or male names. If I were a betting person {which I'm not}, I'd bet that this is a female name that is a creative spelling of the Spanish name "Chaquita" {meaning, "little girl"}. This name is a diminutive form of the Spanish word "chica" which means "girl" {'chico" means boy}. The "ita" ending "little" {as in "young" one}. This is an affectionate name for a child. "Little girl" can be said to describe someone who is very "feminine" in their interests & outlook on life. Here's one source for the name "Chaquita": http://www.babynameaddicts.com/html/names/female/female_c.html. That same website also lists "Chaqueta {new}, meaning="Little Girl."
-snip-
By "new", I'm assuming that website means that this name has been "newly created". If "Chaquita" is the source of the name "Saquita" , the "s" is a substitution for the letter "c", and the "h" {in "ch"} was dropped.
Fwiw {for what it's worth}, given the fact that the element "Char" means "manly", the feminine name "Charquita" means "little manly one". Since bravery is considered an element of manliness, "Charquita" can be said to mean "little brave one"....It's possible that "Saquita" may have other meanings.
Saquita S, if you are a male, then I'm sure you will want to come up with another meaning for your name than the one I am suggesting. If this meaning doesn't sit well with you, be creative and come up with your own meaning for your name. You've got the power!
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
****
SARANE
This contemporary female name is pronounced the same as the word "Serene" {meaning peaceful}>
Thus this name can be said to have the same meaning as the word "serene".
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
****
SASKIA
hi mine names saskia, whats the meaning of it?
-saskia; 1/5/2008
Editor:
See this information from http://www.thinkbabynames.com/meaning/0/Saskia: " The girl's name Saskia of Danish and Old German origin, and its meaning is "the Saxon people". From "sachs". Also possibly "valley of light". Name of the wife of the 17th century Dutch painter Rembrandt. Use of her name in the Netherlands can be traced to her; however, the derivation of Saskia from the name of the Saxon people is uncertain. The name could also possibly be of Slavic origin, and related to Sasha, a short form of Alexandra.
****
SASHA
See this information from http://www.thinkbabynames.com/meaning/0/Sasha: "The boy's and girl's name Sasha \s(a)-sha\ is pronounced SAH-shah. It is of Russian origin. Short form of Alexander (Greek) "man's defender". The -sha ending may not be feminine in Russia, though it is in the US.
Sasha has 6 variant forms: Sacha, Sasa, Sascha, Saschenka, Sasheen and ZsaZsa:"
For more information, see also related names Saskia and Alexandra
****
SHAINA; SHAYNA
Shaina is a Hebrew name meaning "beautiful"
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
****
SHAKANI
I would love to know the meaning of my daughters name shakani
-tracey; 9/27/2006
Editor:
Using Google search engine, I see that Shakani is a place name in Zanzibar, East Africa. Zanzibar is part of Tanzania. However, I've not found any meaning of that name-yet.
Hopefully, some Cocojams reader who has information about this name will share it.
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi!
****
SHACARI
what does shacari mean
-beautifull ; 12/5/2006
Editor:
The name Shacari is listed on a website named African Girls/Female Baby Names" which is found at http://babynames.indastro.com/africanonefS.html. The same website also lists the names Shacara & Shaccara. No language origins or meanings are given for these names which reinforces my sense that these names aren't traditional African {or Arabic} names, but are contemporary versions of another name. My guess is that Shacari is a contemporary American form of the Arabic name Shakira.
See information for that name below.
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
****
SHAHIYM; SHAHEEM
Goodday I'm trying to find the meaning of the name shahiym. Thank you
-aminat o; 1/30/2007
Editor:
The name "Shahiym" may be a variant spelling for the name "Shaheem". And the name Shaheem may be a contemporary name that was created to rhyme with Arabic male names that end in "im" or "eem". In the name "Shahiym" the 'y' may have been added to increase the name's uniqueness while retaining the sound. "Sha" is a very popular prefix {beginning sound} for contemporary male and female names, especially among African Americans.
Among the Arabic male names that rhyme with "Shaheem" are "Hakeem" {"Hakim"; "Akeem"} "Karim" {Kareem} and "Kadim" {"Kadeem"}. Hakim {Hakeem, Akeem} means "wise, ruler, governor"; Karim, Kareen means "generous, noble, friendly, precious and distinguished"; and Kadim {Kadeem} is probably a variant form of the name name "Kadeen" {"Kadin"} which means "friend, companion, confidant".
See http://www.ummah.net/family/masc.html and http://www.behindthename.com/nmc/ara.php for online listings of Arabic names.
If Shahiym is a newly created name, it does not have any established meaning. Just as someone used his or her creativity to coin this name, creativity can be used to come up with a meaning for this name. Positive name meanings help to reinforce self-esteem. Therefore, don't let the probability that Shahiym may be a new name stop you {or whoever name it is} from giving it a meaning.
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
****
SHAKIRA
See http://www.sudairy.com/arabic/fem.html: "Shakira Origin: Arabic; Gender: Female; Meaning "Thankful".
-snip-
The American pronunciation of this name is shah-KEER-rah {with KEER pronounced like the word "care"}. "Thankful" here probably means that the parents are thankful to God for life and other things including for the birth of a child. And/or "thankful" could mean that the child with that name should be thankful to God.
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
****
SHAMARA; SHAMMARA
My name is Shamara. What does it mean?
-Shay; 5/14/2007
Editor:
"Shamara" {Shammara} is usually said to be an Arabic female name. The meaning that I've found most often for this name is that which is provided by http://www.babynamenetwork.com/baby_names/origin.cfm?origin=Arabic&start... "he girded his loins". According to http://www.randomhouse.com/wotd/index.pperl?date=19970423 "to gird one's loins" means "too prepare oneself for something requiring strength and endurance; ready oneself for action"'. The main meaning of gird is 'to encircle or bind with a belt or band'; loins, though often used to refer to the genitals, actually refers to the part of the human body between the hips and the lower ribs, regarded as the seat of physical strength. To gird one's loins literally means 'to wrap a belt around one's waist', the point being that in the days of loose garments, belting oneself would confine one's clothing and allow freer motion of the body"
-snip-
http://kamalkapoor.com/name-meanings/name-details.asp?name=Shamara provides an updated version of the "gird one's loins" meaning. That website says that Shamara is an Arabic female name that means "ready for battle."
However, http://www.sudairy.com/arabic/fem.html {a website on Arabic names} gives this meaning for the female name "Samarah" - Soft light. I'm not sure about the accuracy of this meaning or why it differs from the other meaning that I've found. Maybe it was early in the morning {soft light?} when a person prepared for battle[??]
In the USA and other non-Arabic speaking cultures, Shamara may also be a contemporary form of the Arabic female names "Samira" or "Sameera". See the entries for those names upthread.
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi.
****
SHAMSUL
Hi dude, Shamsul A. is here. Eagerly know the meaning of my name. Could u pls.inform me. Take care,
Shamsul A.; 8/29/2006
Editor:
http://www.aaiil.org/text/muslimnames/muslimnamesstu.shtml indicates that the name Shams is a masculine Arabic name that means "Sun". Without the energy & force of the sun, nothing on this planet could lives. This symbolism is important when thinking about the meaning of the name "Shamsul". Here are several other names from that website which have the "Shams" element:
Shamsud Dawlah {Shams-ud Daw-laa}; M; Arabic; Sun of the kingdom
-
Shamsud Din {Shams-ud Deen}; M; Arabic; Sun of the religion (Islam)
-
Shamsul Arifin {Shams-ul Aa-ri-feen}; M; Arabic; Sun of the sain [saint?]
-snip-
You might be interested to know that the Hebrew male name Samson also means "sun".
See this information from http://www.thinkbabynames.com/meaning/1/Samson :
"The boy's name Samson is pronounced SAM-sun. It is of Hebrew origin, and its meaning is "sun." Biblical: a judge of ancient Israel, endowed by God with superhuman strength. The name was used in the Middle Ages and by the Puritans. Samson has 6 variant forms: Sam, Sampson, Sansom, Sanson, Sansone and Shem"
-snip-
I found two different meanings for another Hebrew masculine name with this "Sam" element-"Samuel". One meaning is "His name is God" and the other meaning is "God has heard". In my opinion, if you got to the essence of that name, both the "Sam" element in the beginning of that name and the "el" element at the end of that name would mean "God" , particularly since in ancient times, the sun was considered a symbol for the Supreme God.
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi!
****
SHAN- See the entry for Sian
****
SHANA
"Shana" is an Irish female name that comes from the male name Shea {Shay}. The name means "majestic, wise one" or "from the fairy's {meaning supernatural beings'} fort
Shana could also be a form of the name Shan which is part of the large family of names that come from the Hebrew name John. If so, Shana has the same meaning as John {Sean, Shaun, Shawn etc= "God is gracious" {or "God is good"}. I would particularly chose this meaning for the female names Shawna or Shauna.
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
****
SHANAYA; SHANIA
I would like to find out the meaning of the name Shanaya. Alternately it can be spelt also as Shania. But I would like to know the meaning of Shanaya and would appreciate if you could please let me know the same. Thanks
-ukhosla; 11/13/2006
****
hi i wud like to know the meaning of the name "shanaya".im expectin and really like this name
-sue; 12/12/2007
Editor:
As you have indicated, "Shanaya" may be a contemporary version of the name "Shania". Here's an excerpt from http://www.thinkbabynames.com/meaning/0/Shania : "The girl's name Shania \ sh(a)-nia\ is pronounced sha-NYE-ah. It is of Native American Indian origin, and its meaning is "on my way". Also variant of Shane."
-snip-
The name Shania has become more familiar due to the popularity of the Canadian country & western singer/composer Shania Twain. "Shania" means ‘on my way’ in the Ojibwa language. "The Ojibwe language--otherwise anglicized as Chippewa, Ojibwa or Ojibway and known to its own speakers as Anishinabe or Anishinaabemowin--is an Algonquian tongue spoken by 50,000 people in the northern United States and southern Canada." For more informantion on the Ojibwa Native Americans {First Nation peoples} visit this website: http://www.native-languages.org/chippewa.htm
As the thinkbabynames excerpt noted the name Shania/Shanaya may also be a form of the male name "Shane". Shane is a part of the large family of names that are translations of "John". One female form of that name is "Shan". See Shan and other names beginning with "Shan" on this page.
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
****
SHANAYNAY
Shanaynay is a female name of contemporary African American origin. The name Shanaynay may have been formed by combining the elements Sha+nay+nay. Or the name Shanaynay may have been created by combining the elements Shan+nay+nay. While this name has no established meaning, the element "Shan" can be associated with the well established names (meaning "far older names that do have an established meaning) "Shana" (gift of God) and/or "Shani" (wonderful, marvelous).
Shanaynay can also be a form of the female name Shania, as a contemporary African American form of that name is "Shanaya", See the entry above for the origin & meaning of "Shania".
It should be noted that repeated the same element two times is a long accepted way in African American communities of forming nicknames. Repeating the same syllable two times is sometimes also an acceptable form of nicknaming among other Americans. A famous example is the nickname "Jon Jon" which the late President John Kennedy gave to his son. Among African Americans, the nickname "Nay Nay" is usually associated with the female name "Renee" (meaing "rebirth", associated with Christmas, and the birth of Jesus). For that reason, the name "Shanaynay" could also be said to carry the meaning of the name "Renee".
Unfortunately, the name "Shanaynay" has been labeled by some comedians as a so-called "Black Ghetto name". As a result, some people have ridiculed this name. However, those who do so, aren't aware of the positive meanings that can be associated with this name.
-Wear you name proudly. Best wishes! Azizi
****
SHANE
...What does the name Shane mean...?
-Shane.B ; 12/24/2006
Editor
See http://www.ireland-information.com/heraldichall/irishboysnames.htm,
"A form of Sean, popularised by Shane of'Neill, Ulster Chieftain, 1567;
Sean: A form of name John. Hebrew: 'God has favoured' or Variants: Eoin, Seon, Shaun, Shawn, Shane"
-snip-
I have also seen the name Shane and other forms of the name John given the meanings "God is gracious", "God is merciful, God has forgiven, and Gift of God. In my opinion, to be merciful, and gracious can mean to be forgiving. Also, a person who is considered a gift of God, is a favored person.
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
****
SHANI
This Kiswahili {Swahili} female name means "marvelous". Shani is also a Hebrew name that means "the color crimson or scarlet". These colors have multiple Biblicallmeanings. The "mark of prosperity, or royalty" ties this name to its Swahili counterpart.
Shani could also be derived from the name "Shawnee", which is the group name of a Native American people.
For more information, see the entry for the names Shanica, Shanika, Shaniqua below.
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi!
****
SHANICE; SHANISE
What does my name mean?
-Shanice; 8/9/2006
Editor:
In my opinion, the name, "Shanice" and its variant "Shanise" (is a modern version of the female names "Jane", "Janice", "Janet", "Jan" "Joan", etc. These names share the same meanings as their male versions "John", "Jonathan", "Sean", "Shawn", "Shaun", "Shane", "Juan", "Ian" , "Ivan", etc. All of these names come from the Hebrew male name "Yohanan" which means "Gracious Gift Of God" or "God is Gracious" or "The Lord Is Gracious", or "The Lord Is Merciful".
I also believe that the name "Chanice" is a variant of the name "Shanice".
In the United States, most folks don't care what a name means. It's the sound of the name that is most important. The fact that a celebrity has a particular name brings that name to people's attention and may make that name much more attractive to folks. For instance, some people may associate the name "Shanice" with the R&B singer Shanice {Wilson}. See this page about that singer: http://www.geocities.com/Hollywood/Hills/8420/shaniceology.html The singer Shanice pronounces her name shah-nees {the 'ees' rhymes with the English word "peace"}. Another widely used pronunciation for the name Shanice is "shaw-nees". But I've never heard the name Shanice rhyme with the similarly spelled female name "Janice" . Janice is pronounced JAN-es.
Again imo, a person with the name Shanice would be on very solid ground if they said that their name means the same thing as those other "John/Jane" names. In the French language, "ice" {pronounced "ees"} is a nicknaming {diminutive} element which is often added to personal name. That element can be said to mean "beloved little one" {"little" meaning young and not small in height}. So then, if your name is Shanice, you could say that your name means "a beloved one who is a gift from God".
But, if that meaning doesn't suit you, here's another choice:
The name Shanice could come from the Hebrew female name "Shoshana" {take the Shana, drop the "a" and add the "ice"}.
See this meaning of the name Shana from http://www.thinkbabynames.com/meaning/0/Shana
"The girl's name Shana is pronounced SHAH-nah. Nickname for Shoshana (Hebrew) "lily, rose"; short form of Shannon or anglicization of Shaina. Shana has been made familiar today by journalist and biographer Shana Alexander. Singer Shania Twain."
-snip-
Contrary to that's website's information about how the name "Shana" is pronounced, whenever I've heard the name "Shana", it was pronounced SHAY-nah. Yet the origin & meaning that thinkbabynames gives for the name "Shaina" is intriguing.
So it seems to me that you have at least two choices. You could say that Shanice means "beloved gift of God". Or you could say it means "beloved little rose" or "beloved little lily".
And, if none of these meanings suit you, you have the creativity, the self-determination, and the power to select a meaning or come up with a meaning that fits you better.
-Wear you name proudly. Best wishes! Azizi
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SHANICA; SHANIKA; SHANIQUA
I believe that the female names "Shanica", "Shanika", and "Shaniqua" are related. It's my position that these names are of contemporary African American origin and are combinations of the elements "Shani" and the suffix "ica" (ca), "ika" (ka) or the suffix "qua". These suffixes have no assigned meaning in contemporary American names. However the name "Shani" does.
In Hebrew, the female name "Shani" is related to the color "crimson" or "scarlet". http://judaism.about.com/od/hebrewname1/tp/names_gs.htm
The colors crimson and scarlet have various Biblical meanings, Two of those meanings are the same as those associated with the color purple (a color of prosperity, a color of royalty). http://www.christcenteredmall.com/teachings/symbolism/colors.htm This connects the Hebrew meaning of the name Shani with the Swahili meaning of that same name.
In Swahili, the female name "Shani" means "marvelous", "wonderful". http://www.perfect-baby-names.com/african-baby-girl-names.html and http://www.thinkbabynames.com/meaning/0/Shani
It's also possible that Shanica, Shanika, and Shaniqua could be considered part of the large family of "Shane"; Shawn'; ''Sean'' (John) names. Therefore Shanica, Shanika, and Shaniqua could be given the same Celtic meaning for "Shanna", "Sian", "Shane" etc ("gracious gift of God").
It should be noted that "Shani" is the name of a line of girl's Barbi dolls. "Barbie's friend Shani, produced during the early 1990s, was marketed as the star of her own toy line, and later as a member of Barbie's cast. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_Barbie's_friends_and_family
Unfortunately, the name "Shaniqua" has been subject to ridicule as a so-called "Black Ghetto name" in certain recent YouTube videos. However, those individuals who produce such videos and those who laugh at the name "Shaniqua" aren't aware of the two highly positive meanings of this name.
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi!
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SHANNON
{Irish Gaelic} meaning small wise one.
Shannon is a female or male name which is also said to mean "old one" because an old person is supposed to be wise.
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi!
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SHANTE'; SHAWNTE; SHANTAY; SHANTAE
I believe that this name is either a contemporary American version of the French female name Chantal or a form of the name male or female name Shan {Shaun; Shawn}. See entries on this page for those names. This name is usually pronounced "shaun-tay". While the name Shante' is usually given to females, there are also males with this name This stands to reason, particularly if you accept the theory that it comes from versions of the male name John (Shaun, Shawn, Sean).
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
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SHANTELLE; CHANTELLE; CHANTAL; SHONTELLE
http://www.thinkbabynames.com/meaning/0/Shantelle: The girl's name Shantelle \sh(an)-telle, shant(el)-le\ is pronounced shan-TEL, shahn-TEL. It is of Old French origin, and its meaning is "stone". Variant of Chantal.
Shantelle has 12 variant forms: Shanta, Shantahl, Shantal, Shantalle, Shantay, Shante, Shantel, Shantell, Shantella, Shontal, Shontalle and Shontelle.
**
Also see http://www.behindthename.com/name/chantal :
Chantel
Gender: Feminine
Usage: French, English, Dutch
Pronounced: shawn-TAL (French), shawn-TAL (English), shan-TAL (English), shahn-TAHL (Dutch) [key]
From a French surname which was derived from a place name meaning "stony". It was originally given in honour of Saint Jeanne-Françoise de Chantal, the founder of the Visitation Order in the 17th century. It has become associated with French chant "song".
-Wear your name proudly. Best wishes, Azizi
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SHANZAY; SHANZE
i want to know meaning and origin of baby girl name "shanzay" or "shanze"
-sohail; 10/28/2006
**
What are the meanings and origin of 'Shanzay' , the name we chose for our baby girl, Thanks
-Adnan; 2/24/2008
Editor:
I thought that the name "Shanzay" was probably a contemporary name with no established meaning. My suggestion was going to be to consider using the meaning for name Shan {see that entry on this page} or to use your self-determination and creativity to chose or make up a name meaning for this name. However, I received the following message from someone whose name is Shanze:
"Hi, my name is Shanze. Just for fun, I was looking up meanings of names of people I know and looked up my name. I came to your website and I would like to make a correction. Shanze is a French name meaning 'rose'. Also, it is a Muslim name meaning 'tree of paradise'. The name that sounds like Shanze, Shanzay means 'princess'."
-Shanze; 2/24/2007
-snip-
Thanks, Shanze! I appreciate you correcting my statement by sending in this information. I'd love it if you would also share the names of the online or print sources for that information so that I can share it with others.
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
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SHARISE; SHERISE-See the entry for Cherise above
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SHARLENE; SHARLINEL CHARLENE; CHARLYN
What is the meaning of "Sharline"? And where does it come? Does the name have any story? And what else is the same as the name? Thank you.
-Sharline: 6/18/2007
Editor:
Sharline, your name is a female form of the male name "Charles". See this information about that name:
http://www.thinkbabynames.com/meaning/1/Charles: "The boy's name Charles \ch(ar)-les\ is pronounced charlz. It is of Old German origin, and its meaning is "free man". From "karl", similar to Old English "churl", meaning "man, serf". The first Holy Roman Emperor (seventh to eighth century) Charlemagne (Latin Carolus Magnus, meaning "Charles the Great") was a powerful Germanic leader who created a more ordered society out of the chaos that followed the fall of Rome. He united France and much of central Europe. His widespread fame gave rise to many forms of his name. Charles is the French variant of Carolus or Karolus, adopted by the English especially since the 17th-century reigns of kings Charles I and II. Charles and its variant forms have been favoured by the royalty of several countries, including the present Prince of Wales. Charlie and Charly are occasionally used for girls..."
-snip-
Since the name "Charles" means "free man", the name Sharline and other forms of that name means "free woman". These are status names, meaning they refer to the person's status in society. To be free-by birth or otherwise-is an important condition to have. I am referring not only to slavery, but also to serfdom. A free person walks proudly. And- hopefully- as fully as possible, a free person takes on the responsibilities that comes with freedom, including protecting that freedom and advocating for freedom for others...
Often females with the name Sharline, Sharlene, Charlynn, or other forms of this name have been named after their fathers. For instance, I have an uncle named Charles whose daughter is named Charlynn. Another meaning for the name Charlynn could be Char {free woman} + lynn {from the Spanish "Linda" meaning pretty}. There are other meanings for "lynn" http://www.thinkbabynames.com/meaning/0/Lynn [= provides that information. But I'm partial to the German+Spanish meaning of that name which would "pretty, free woman". Sharline, even if your name is pronounced shar-LEEN, you could still claim that name meaning. No one's stopping you from doing so-since you're free, and it's a free country, right?
So does your name come with a story? Yes, indeed, all names do, even if they don't have an established meaning. The questions are which stories do you want to tell and how will you tell them?
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
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SHARON; SHA'RON
Sharon is a male or female Hebrew name though it is most often given to females. This personal name is from an Old Testament place name meaning "plain" in Hebrew, referring to a fertile plain near the coast of Israel. This is also the name of a type of flowering shrub, the rose of Sharon. http://www.behindthename.com/name/sharon
Note: One young girl I know was given the name Sha'Ron and pronounces it shay-RON. This name could have come from the name Sharon. It might also have come from combining the name or nickname "Shay" with the name "Ron" (for instance, if the mother's name was Shay and the father's name is "Ron". In the first case, I'd say that the meaning of Sha'Ron could be the same as the name "Sharon". In the second case, that name may be given the same meanings as the name "Shay" and the name "Ronald".
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
*****
SHATESHIA
I would like to know if the name Shateshia has a meaning?
-Teshia; 11/8/2006
Editor:
The name "Shateshia" is probably a newly created name which is probably of African American origin. As a newly created name, Shateshia has no established meaning. "Shateshia" is probably pronounced either shah-TEE-she-ah" or shah-TEE-shah". This name could also be pronounced "shah-tay-shah" because contemporary names (particularly African American names don't always follow so-called standard American pronunciation "rules". I'm curious how you pronounce your name. Given it's 'a' ending, it is probably given as a female name.
Although some people look down on "made up names", every name was made up at some time. Making up names is a creative activity. Names that are newly created are often made by changing parts of an already existing name, rhyming an already existing name, and/or combining parts of more than one name. In many cultures, specific elements of a name have specific meanings. For instance, in the European language Spanish the suffix {ending element} "ita" means :little", in the Hebrew language the element "el" refers to God, and in the West African language Yoruba, the element "ola" means honor or glory. However, usually in the United States, no meanings are given to elements used to form contemporary personal names. The sound of a name is what is important, not it's meaning. And increasingly, consideration is given to how a name looks, which is why some names feature more than one capitol letter and/or accent marks or a hypen.
My guess is that Shateshia was created by taking the prefix "Sha" {which has no meaning} and the element "teshia". "Teshia" may come from the female name "Natisha". Natisha is the English version of the Russian name Natasha. Natasha means "birthday". It specifically means "Christmas birthday" {December 25th, the day given on which Jesus is said to have been born}. The traditional belief was that any person born on the same day as Jesus had special protection, and therefore was considered to be a special person. It's my view that contemporary names that are created from older names can be said to have the same meaning as those older names. Therefore, you could say that Shateshia means "birthday" or "born on Christmas day" or "one who is special". And if you don't like those meanings, you can use your creativity and self-determination and make a meaning that you do like.
-Best wishes, and wear your name proudly!
Here's a response from Shatesia:
"...My name is pronounced sha-TEE-sha but people think it is pronounced sha-TEE-shee-ah. Again thank you so much for your help!"
Editor:
You're welcome, Shatesia!
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SHAUNICE-See the entry for Shanice on this page
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SHARAZAD; SHARIZAD; SHEHERAZADE
Sharazad was the Persian name of the narrator of 1001 Nights. Both Sharazad and Sharizad are Persian female names that mean "city dweller" (a person who lives in the city). shahr {city} + zad {person}; "shahr" and the word "shah" have the same root. "Shah" means "king". The city was where the king lived. Those persons living in the city would therefore have some degree of status. See http://www.20000-names.com/female_persian_names.htm . Also see this information from http://www.thinkbabynames.com/meaning/0/Sheherezade
"The girl's name Sheherezade...is of Arabic, Farsi and Persian origin, and its meaning is "city dweller". In "A Thousand and One Arabian Nights", Sheherazade tells one tale to her royal husband each night. Having been betrayed by his first wife, the husband had resolved to marry a different virgin each day, and kill at dawn. So fascinating were Sheherazade's stories, however, that the king let her live so that he could keep hearing them. He eventually fell in love with her. Sheherezade has 4 variant forms: Scheherezade, Shahrazad, Sharazad and Sharizad".
-Best wishes, and wear your name proudly!
SHAWNEE
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ShawneeL "The Shawnee, Shaawanwaki, Shaawanooki and Shaawanowi lenaweeki, [2] are an Algonquian-speaking people native to North America. Historically they inhabited the areas of Ohio, Virginia, West Virginia, Western Maryland, Kentucky, Indiana, and Pennsylvania. Today there are three federally recognized Shawnee tribes: Absentee-Shawnee Tribe of Indians of Oklahoma, Eastern Shawnee Tribe of Oklahoma, and Shawnee Tribe, all of which are headquartered in Oklahoma."
-snip-
Although it is rare, "Shawnee" has been used as a female name by some African Americans.
-Best wishes, and wear your name proudly!
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SHAWNTEE
This female name may also be a contemporary American form of either of these contemporary American female name "Shante" or "Shanti". See entries for those two names above.
-Best wishes, and wear your name proudly!
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SHAZRAY; SHAZA; SHAZIA; SHAAZIYA
I would really like to know exactly what Shazray, which is feminine means. I originally was taught that it was persian and meant precious pearl, but I have never met anyone who's actually persian have it. The only people who seem to have it are Pakistanis.
-Shazray K; 5/30/2008
Editor:
Shazray, your name may be a contemporary English form of these Indian Muslim female names: Shaza (fragrance) and Shazia (shaaziya-fragrant) http://www.milligazette.com/misl/muslimbabyname.htm. Also, you name may be a form of "Shahrazad" listed above.
-Best wishes, and wear your name proudly!
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SHEENA
http://baby-names.adoption.com/search/Simone.html :
"The girl's name Sheena is pronounced SHE-nah. It is of Irish origin. Variant of Jane (Hebrew) "the Lord is gracious" or Jean. Made popular by singer Sheena Easton"...
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
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SHELBY
http://www.thinkbabynames.com/meaning/0/Shelby: "The boy's and girl's name Shelby \sh(el)-by\ is pronounced SHEL-bee. It is of Old Norse origin, and its meaning is "willow; from the ledge estate". English surname [last name] used as a given name [personal name] for girls and occasionally for boys".
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
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SHEROSE
I wanted to know if there is a origin behind the nickname of "sherose" & if there is then i was wondering if you could tell me it! thanx!
-shelby; 5/22/2008
Editor:
The name "Sherose" may be a blend of the female name Sherise and the female name "Rose". See the entry for the name "Sherise" on this page. "Rose" is an English flower name. A common nickname for that name is "Reesie". That nickname conforms to the "ie" or "y" ending for nicknames that was very common in the early to late 1950s. Another nickname for the name "Sherise" that I've heard is "Ree Ree." Making a nickname by repeating the beginning sound of a name is very common among African Americans. Thsese nicknames may also be used for the name "Sherose". Of course, a person's nickname or nicknames don't have to sound anything like their first or middle name.
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
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SHIMON; SIMON; SIMONE; SIMONA
Hi I would like to know what Shimon means
-Alisha; 11/10/2006
Editor:
"Shimon" is a Hebrew masculine name that means "one who listens"; Simon is the male form of that name. Simone {Simona} are female forms of that same name.
See http://www.italyworldclub.com/genealogy/surnames/s.htm:
"Simone, Simoni, Simeone": From the first name Simone, derived from the Hebrew name "Sim'on", from the verb "sama" = to listen"
-snip-
These names probably mean "One who listens to God."
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
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SHYAN; SHAYAN
My name is Shyan and i am a girl who wants to find out the meaning and language of origin of her name please.
-Shyan; 3/7/2007
Editor:
In March 2007, I wrote that I couldn't find any information about the name "Shyan". I suggested that maybe it was a unique way of spelling the Native American name "Cheyenne". And maybe it is. But since that time, I've received a query about a similar spelled {and pronounced?} name "Shayan". And I was successful in finding information online about that name. http://www.persia.org/Information/boys.html ShAyAn [origin} Iran {Persia} [gender] male [meaning] "Worthy, deserving, meriting" Perhaps this information for Shayan may also be the source for the name "Shyan".
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
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SIAN; SIANNA; SHAN; SHANA; SHANNA
I was wondering what my name means and where it comes from.
-Siannna; 1/17/2007
**
I was wondering what Shanna means?
-Shanna; 5/31/2007
Editor:
See this information about the name "Sian" from http://www.thinkbabynames.com/meaning/0/Sian:
"The girl's name Sian is pronounced shon. It is of Welsh origin. Variant of Jane (Hebrew), meaning "the Lord is gracious." See also Seana, Shana, Shanae, and Shawna.
Sian has 2 variant forms: Siana and Sianna. For more information, see also the related name Shan".
-snip-
"Sian", "Sianna", "Shan", "Shana", and "Jane" are all female forms of the male name John. See http://www.thinkbabynames.com/meaning/1/John for a list of male names from different languages ofthe name "John". All these names-as well as the female names that are part of the "John" family have the same meaning- "The Lord is Gracious", or "God is merciful". Another way of saying this is "God is good".
Traditionally, people who are given names that refer to God were thought to be especially under God's protection. A male or female might have been given a name from the large "John" family of names because of the special protection such a name was thought to give, or to say "thank you" to God because it was good {gracious, merciful} of Him to send the parents a child.
By the way, Welsh is the traditional language of Wales. Wales is one of the four parts of The United Kingdom {the other parts of that nation are England, Scotland, and Northern Ireland}.
According to a woman with that name who is a member of an online discussion forum that I belong to, the name Sian {spelled with a cone shaped accent mark over the "a"} is pronounced "Shan". I found this quite interesting because I know an African American teenage girl who has the name "Shan" and I always wondered if her name was clipped from the name "Shanice". Maybe it was. But maybe her folks {or whoever gave her that name} knew about the Welsh name "Shan". Folks in the United States
may have selected the name "Sian, or "Shan" or "Sianna" or "Siannna" for their daughter because they like the way the name sound and they like the fact that it is unique.
BTW2, when I asked my Internet friend Sian about that website's pronunciation of the name Sian, she told me that regional differences account for differences in that name's pronunciation. If I understood her correctly, some people in Wales pronounce it Shan {which rhymes with "ran"} and some people pronounce it Shon {which rhymes with "John"}.
[My thanks to sian, west wales from Mudcat Discussion Forum http://www.mudcat.org/threads.cfm for hipping me to what your name means!]
To all the Sians, Siannas, Siannas, Shons, and Shans in the world,
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi!
Addendum: I just met two sisters who share the middle name "Siany" {pronounced-see-AN-nee}.Their parents,Tim & Melissa, selected the name from a baby name book, but weren't sure about the name's origin & meaning. I told them that Siany might be a form of the Celtic name Sian, even though it is pronounced different from their daughters' name. Therefore this name could be said to have the same meaning as "Sian, Shon, Shan, Shawn, Shaun etc.
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SIERRA; CIERRA
http://babyparenting.about.com/cs/gettingready/a/sierra.htm provides this information about the origin & meaning of the name Sierra:
"Sierra-Gender: female; Origin: Spanish ; Meaning: Range of mountains
-snip-
The beauty of mountains is the key meaning of the name Sierra. However, the name also may bring to mind the attributes of strength and endurance.
Regarding the beauty of mountain ranges, http://www.shgresources.com/resources/symbols/names/statenamesorign/ provides this information about the meaning of the state name "Nevada":
"Spanish sailors gazed upon the beautiful mountain ranges of California. They called these mountains Sierra Nevada (snowy range). Sierra Nevada seemed an apt name for the new territory that was being carved out of Utah, but when the deed was done in 1859, the name of this new territory had been shortened to Nevada.
-snip-
Sierra Leone, West Africa is another geographical place that has the name Sierra. Sierra Leone means "Lion Mountain".
An alternate meaning for Sierra; Cierra is the name Ciara. See information on that name above.
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
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SILVEIRA-MONIZ; MUNIZ
what is the meaning of these to last names
-silveira-moniz ; 2/3/08
Editor:
http://www.ancestry.com/facts/Silveira-name-meaning.ashx provides this information for the surname {last name "Silveira": "Galician and Portuguese: habitational [place] name from... Silveira in Lugo and Pontevedra provinces or a topographic name from silveira ‘woodland’, a collective derivative of silva."
-snip-
Of course, another term for "woodland" is "forest". Therefore, the last name "Silveira" means "one who comes from the forest".
**
"Moniz" is a Portuguese last name which comes from the medieval personal name "Munho"
http://www.ancestry.com/facts/Moniz-name-meaning.ashx?fn=&yr=1920
-snip-
Here's information for the similar spelled name "Muniz"
Galician, Asturian-Leonese, and Spanish (Muñiz): last name from the old personal name Muño (see Munoz).; Portuguese: variant of Moniz. http://www.ancestry.com/facts/Muniz-name-meaning.ashx?fid=10&ln=Munoz&fn...
Sorry, I've not been able to find any meaning/s for the name "Munho" and Muño . The name "Munho" is very similar to the Spanish word "mundo" meaning "world", but I'm not sure if it means the same thing. If someone knows the meaning of these names, please send in that information! Thanks!
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
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SIPHO ; SIPHOKAZI
http://en.wiktionary.org/wiki/Appendix:Zulu_given_names -Male Zulu names which mean "gift"
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
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SIYABONGA
http://en.wiktionary.org/wiki/Appendix:Zulu_given_names -Male Zulu name which means "we thank you"
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
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SKIPWORTH
I need to find out where the surname "skipworth'... originated from for my year 6 school project ? Please help.
-Megan: 2/23/2007
Editor:
Megan, you asked about the origin and meanings of three other surnames {last names}. Two of those names mean the exact same thing as if they were used as "regular" words. The other surname Williamson means the son of William. William is a German male name and means "resolute guardian" or helmet of protection". See this information for the surname Skipworth:
http://www.ancestry.com/learn/facts/fact.aspx?fid=10&ln=Skipwith&fn=&yr=... "
variant of English name Skipwith
English (Yorkshire): habitational [place of resident] name from a place in Yorkshire, recorded in Domesday Book as Schipwic, from Old English sceap, scip ‘sheep’ + wic ‘outlying settlement’. Under later Scandinavian influence the initial ‘s’ became ‘sk’ and the second element was changed to -with (Old Norse viðr ‘wood’)."
-snip-
A contemporary meaning for the name Skipworth can be said to be "a person who lives in or comes from a country or a suburban community"
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
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SOMALIA
All my life I have wanted to know the meaning of my name, "SOMALIA". I was named after the actual country, but everytime I search for the name's meaning, I come up empty. I seriously need your help. Thanks a million.
-Somalia G.
Editor:
According to http://www.ipoaa.com/african_country_name_origin.htm, the name of the African nation of "Somalia" means "The Land of the Somali, the dominant Ethnic group in the country." "Dominate" used here means "largest number of persons". Throughout the world, many ethnic group names translate to something like "the people", but I'm not sure if this is the original meaning for the word "Somalia". Here's some excerpts from http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/History_of_Somalia :
"Somalia (Somali: Soomaaliya) is a coastal nation in East Africa, widely known as Horn of Africa. Continentally, it is surrounded by Ethiopia and Djibouti on the north and mid-west, and Kenya on its south-west. The Gulf of Aden is located on its far east...Somalia together with Ethiopia, Eritrea, Djibouti (collectively known as the Horn of Africa), were known to the Ancient Egyptians as the Land of Punt. The earliest definite record of contact between Ancient Egypt and Punt comes from an entry on the Palermo stone during the reign of Sahure of the Fifth Dynasty (around 2250 BC). It says in one year 80,000 units of myrrh and frankincense was brought to Egypt from Punt as well as other quantities of goods that were highly valued in Ancient Egypt. Between the Thirteenth and Seventeenth Dynasties, the contact between Egypt and Punt was broken. This was due to the fact that Egypt was invaded by the Hyksos. The fifth ruler in the Eighteen Dynasty of Egyptian Pharaohs was Queen Hatshepsut, daughter of Thutmose III. She became Queen in the year 1493 BC and made a landmark expedition to the land of Punt which is recorded on the walls of the Deir ci-Bahari temple located in Alexandria. Her eight ships sailed to Puntland and came back with cargoes of fine woods, ebony, myrrh, cinnamon and incense trees to plant in the temple garden..."
According to one theory, the nation of Somalia, or elsewhere in the land of Punt, was the location of the "Garden of Eden" that is mentioned in the Christian Bible. However, there are a number of theories about where the Garden of Eden was located. If indeed the Garden of Eden was located in Somalia, a person with that name would be a very special person indeed. Also, as you have read, Somalia is associated with "goods that were highly valued in Ancient Egypt". If no other meaning can be found for the name Somalia {or even if the ancient meaning of this name can be found, it seems to me that you should consider that name to be a blessing.
Also, given the "Soomaaliya" spelling of that nation's name, I wonder if the Arabic female name "Aaliyah" could have come from this Somali name. Given the history of Somalia and Arabian nations, it's my sense that the name Somalia predates the name Aaliaya {"Aliyah, "Aliya"}. The name "Aliyah" means "e Exalted, noble, highest social standing." It seems to me that the name "Somalia" could be said to carry that meaning also.
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
**
Btw, the first website link that I provided for the name "Somalia" has a listing of the origin/meaning of many other names of African nations. It's a great resource for folks interested in the meanings of the names of African names.
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SONATA
What is does my name mean?
-Sonata
Editor:
The female name "Sonata" probably comes from the Italian word "sonnet". A sonnet is a 14-line lyrical poem. Sonata is usually pronounced "soh-NAH-tah".
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
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SONIA; SONYA; SONJAa
i would like to know the meaning of sonia.olivia [last name omitted]
-sonia r.; 3/7/2008
Editor:
Sonia, I don't post whole names on this page. I've posted information about the name "Olivia" in the "O" section of this page. http://www.thinkbabynames.com/meaning/0/Sonia provides this information about the name "Sonia": "The girl's name Sonia \s(o)-nia\ is pronounced SOHN-yah. It is of English origin. Variant of Sophia (Greek) "wisdom"...
Sonia has 10 variant forms: Sohnia, Sohnnja, Sondja, Sondya, Sonja, Sonje, Sonni, Sonnie, Sonnja and Sonya".
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
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SONU
Can you please send me the meaning of the word Sonu?
-Deepa S. ; 5/17/2007
Editor:
http://www.yourbabysname.com/names_s.htm gives this the meaning of the name "Sonu" as "Gold. Beautiful". This name is listed as a female name and is included with many names from India. On http://www.babiesonline.com/babynames/boybabynames/boybabynamesS.asp the name "Sonu" is listed with boys names from India. Its meaning is given as "gold".
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
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STEFANIE; STEPHANIE
See http://www.thinkbabynames.com/meaning/0/Stephanie: The girl's name Stephanie \s-tepha-nie, st(e)-phanie\ is pronounced STEFF-a-nee. It is of Greek origin, and its meaning is "crown, garland". Feminine form of Stephen. The name of the first Christian martyr was a favored name choice from the early Christian era. Stephania, a Latin form of the name, was used for girls. The French form Stephanie became popular early in the 20th century.
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
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STEWART; STEWARD; STUART
My girlfriend says she's french, but her last name is Stewarts... I want to know the origin of her last name...Thanks.
-Jordan; 10/23/2008
Editor:
"Stewarts" is a form of the name "Stewart". Stewart, Steward, Stuart are both personal names and surnames {last names}. See this information from: http://genealogy.about.com/library/surnames/s/bl_name-STEWART.htm: "Definition: An occupational name for a steward or manager of a household or estate; or one who had charge of a king's or important noble's household. From Middle English 'stiward.'
Surname Origin: English, Scottish
Alternate Surname Spellings: Stuart; Steward"
-snip-
Incidentally, Jordan, given the high degree of intermarriage between French and English people throughout the centuries, just because a person has an English last name, does not mean that they aren't French. You shared with me your girlfriend's first and middle name. It might interest you to know that they both happen to be either French names or French forms of a name.
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
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SUSANNAH; SUSANNA; SUSAN; SHOSHANNA
Hi My name is Susannah and i will like to know what my name means
-Susannah; 8/18/2008
Editor:
The name Susannah (Susan; Susanna etc) is usually given the meaning "lily". http://www.thinkbabynames.com/meaning/0/Susannah: "The girl's name Susannah \s(u)-sannah, sus(an)-nah\ is of Hebrew origin, and its meaning is "lily". The original form of the name Susan... Susannah has 12 variant forms: Sanna, Sannah, Shoshanna, Shanna, ShuShu, Suesanna, Susana, Susanna, Susannagh, Suzanna, Zanna and Zannie".
-snip-
However, see this quote from http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Susan: "Susan is a female given name, a form of Susanna, deriving originally from Middle Egyptian "sšn" (lotus flower), first reported on an 11.Dyn. sarcophagus approximately 2000 B.C. Susan is a very popular name, and variations are found in many languages. However, the Hebrew root for the name for the lily, שושן is derived from the root שוש or ששנ , meaning to be joyful, bright, or cheerful, which is the basis for the word and name ששון Sasson, meaning joy".
-snip-
Therefore, Susannah can be said to mean "lily"; "lily of the valley", or "lotus flower" . The name Susannah can also be said to mean "joyful, bright, cheerful". In contemporary times, the lotus flower and lilies are symbols of purity.
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
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SUKIE
"Sukie" (pronounced SOOK-key" is a nickname for the female name "Susan".
This female nickname may also come from the Spanish word for sugar "azucar". The phrase "ah Sukie Sukie" that is found in some R&B songs is meant to convey the sexual attractiveness of the female it is directed to, and thus owes more to the Spanish meaning than the Egyptian/Hebrew name "Susan".
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
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SYAZWANI
my first name is Syazwani. secomd name is natasya. wud love to know the meaning of the two.. thank u
-Tasya; 2/5/2007
Editor:
Tasya, see the entry for "Natalie" upthread for the meaning of the name "Nataysha". Your name "Taysa" is pronounced "TAY-shah", right?
With regard to the name "Syazwani", my guess is that this is an Arabic name. I've seen the name Syazwani listed online as both a first and a last name. In all cases, these name appear to be associated with someone who is either Muslim or from a nation such as Singapore which has a large Muslim or Arabic population.
It's possible that the name Syazwani may be related to the Arabic masculine name "Safwan" . http://www.ummah.net/family/masc.html#S gives this meaning for "Safwan - Rocks".
-snip-
I believe this implies strength and endurance. However, this may not be the meaning of the name "Syazwani"
If anyone reading this knows the origin & meaning of this name, please send it in. I'll continue to look for more information about this name.
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
T,U,V
TAHAIA
I am wondering the origins of my name. It is Tahaia ( Tah Hay' Ee Yah) My mother died when I was very young, and I have no idea where she got the name. I am not African American....thanks for your help
-Tahaia Jean (TJ) ; 8/3/2007
Editor:
Tahaia, it's possible that your name might have come from the female names Tala, Talia, and/or Talulah. See my comments about those names below. It's also possible that your name may have come from either or both of these two Arabic female names:
"Tahirah" meaning (pure, chaste) and "Takiyah" meaning (pious, righteous) online source: http://www.ummah.net/family/fem.html
Also see my comments about originally created names {which are often disparagingly called "made up names"} in the entry for the name Afeni and elsewhere on this page.
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
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TAHTIONA- See the entry for Tiyanna, Tahtiona, Tatiana below
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TAIA; TYLA
This female name is usually said to be of Native American origin with a meaning of "wolf" or "princess of wolves". However, see this excerpt from http://www.native-languages.org/wrongnames.htm :
"Baby name books claim this means "princess of wolves" or "stalking wolf" in Cherokee. This is false. There isn't any word "Tala" in Cherokee, there isn't any word for "princess" in Cherokee ("Cherokee princess" is a white myth), and the word for "wolf" is "Wahya" in Cherokee. Furthermore, it's highly unlikely that a simple word like "Tala" means "princess of wolves" in ANY language, but particularly an American Indian language, where words tend to be longer, not shorter, than English ones. It's possible that the word means "wolf" in some American Indian language other than Cherokee, and the rest is an embellishment. More likely, Tala was the name of a Cherokee heroine in a Western or romance novel, and her name was given a completely fictional meaning like "princess of wolves" in the story".
-snip-
Perhaps the name "Tala" is a clip {shortened form} of a longer Native American name.
http://www.bchealth.com/services/birthcenter/nativeambabynames.shtml lists two female names that may be sources for the name Tala: "Talula" is a Choctaw female name meaning "leaping water"
and Talutah is a Sioux female name meaning "blood-red." However, that same website also lists Tala as meaning "wolf", so if that meaning is suspect, then the other meanings given may also be suspect. For what it's worth, Pamela A. Samuelson's book Baby Names For The New Century basically concur with the bchealth website's' origin & meaning of the name "Talula". Samuelson writes that Talula {tah-LOO-lah} is "Native American Choctow [and means] "water sprays to the sky". Samuelson lists Talli, Tallia, Talulah, and Tally as being related to the name Talula.
The name "Tala" is usually pronounced "TIE-lah". Tyla may be an alternative spelling of the same name. It usually is pronounced the same as Tala. But several name websites indicate that Tyla is an English female or male name which means "good". Also see the entry below of the Hebrew name "Talia."
So what does the name Tala {Tyla} really mean? Maybe it really does means "leaping water". Or maybe it really does mean "princess of wolves". Or maybe it really means "The good one". Or maybe it means whatever meaning you assign to it. To each her or his own.
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
Post script:
http://www.indiansun.net/symbols_animals.htm indicates that in Native American culture, the wolf symbolizes "Teacher of New Ideas and Wisdom, Intense Loyalty with Balance of Independence". Visit that website for more information on Native American animal symbolism.
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TALIA
Talia {TAL-ya} is a Hebrew female name which means "golden dew from above" According to Pamela Samuelson's book Baby Names For The New Century, variant forms of the female name Talia are Talor, Talora, Talya, Tahlia, and Taliah.
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
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TALULA; TALLULAH; TALULAH
What does the name Talula mean, and where does it come from?
-Rosemary P.; 1/7/2007
Editor:
"Talula" is a variant form of the name "Tallulah". This female name is of Native American Choctow origin. Its meaning is usually said to be "leaping waters" . See http://www.20000-names.com/female_native_american_names_2.htm But also see the comment for the name "Tala" that is written above.
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
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TAMIEKA; TAMIKA; TAMEKA; TAMIKO; TAMEAKA. TAMENIKA
What does my name Tamieka mean and what origin is it from?
-Tamieka {Phila,PA}; 6/25/2006
**
please i need the hebrew meanin of my name
- tamieka; 4/13/2008
Editor:
In my opinion, Tamika", and other similarly spelled names including Tamika", "Tameka" and "Tamenika", are American forms of the Japanese female name "Tamiko". Specifically, these names appear to be of African American creation. "Tamiko" meaning is usually given as "girl child'. I have also seen these meanings for the name "Tamiko": "people child" or "abundance child" or child of "Tami". I have seen the name "Tamika" on some listings of Japanese female names, but more often have seen "Tamiko".
"Tamika" was 'adopted' by African Americans in the mid to late 1960s or so because of its similarity with a number of Arabic names & traditional African names [the 'ika' suffix and/or the ''ah' sound at the end]. But, how did Black people become aware of the name "Tamika" in the first place? Well, it's my position that we took that name from this 1963 movie "A Girl Named Tamiko" http://imdb.com/title/tt0056021/movie and exchanged the 'o' ending for an 'ah' ending to better fit our sound preferences. That's creativity in action.
My advice for all the "Tameikas" and "Tamikas" {and similarly spelled names} in the world is to look to Japanese name books to better pin down the meaning of this name. Given the information that I have, I usually give it the meaning "the feminine one" . Of course, what is feminine to one person may not be feminine to another.
With regard to tameika's {4/13/2008} request for the Hebrew meaning of her name, there are forms of certain names in various languages throughout the world. For instance, the English name "John" has its source in the Old French name "Jehan", which comes from the Hebrew name "Yôhānnān", "Juan" is the Spanish form of that Hebrew male name, "Jan" is the Dutch form, and "Johan" is the German/Swiss form. However, not all personal names have forms in different languages. I don't believe that there is any Hebrew form of the American female name "Tameika". However, if you were to look at the meaning of the source name for Tamieka {the Japanese name Tamiko" -"girl child"}, you'll find names in various languages that are the same as or similar to the meaning of this name.
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
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TANISHA; TANESHA; TANISHIA
"Tanisha" {American pronunciation- tah-NEE-sha} is a Hausa (northern Nigeria, West African) name which means "female born on Monday"
"Tanesha" and "Tanishia" are two of many contemporary African American variants of that Hausa name.
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
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TANYA, TANIA; TONYA; TANIA
Tonya is a short form of the name "Tatiana". Tatiana is a Russian royalty name. See the entry for "Tatiana" below.
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
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TARA
What does the name "Tara" mean?
-Dina
Editor:
See this excerpt from http://www.thinkbabynames.com/meaning/0/Tara
"The girl's name Tara is pronounced TAH-rah. It is of Gaelic and Sanskrit origin, and its meaning is "hill; star." Ancient Tara was the site of the "stone of destiny" on which Irish kings resided, and Margaret Mitchell probably had this in mind when she named the fictional home of Scarlett O'Hara in her 1936 novel "Gone With the Wind." Hindu mythology: Tara is one of the names of the wife of Shiva."
-snip-
Also see this excerpt from http://www.sripremananda.org/english/e7_more/e7b_names/e7b_tara.htm
Tara is an important Hindu and Buddhist Goddess. In Tibetan Buddhism, the Bodhisattva Tara is the consort of the deity Avalokiteshvara, the Lord who looks with compassion on all living beings. In China she is known as Kwan Yin. Tara is the shakti (power) of divine sound. The name Tara means the saviour. She is the knowledge that saves us at difficult points in our lives. The concept of a saving Goddess is a very ancient one and a common theme is many spiritual traditions. Tara also means a bright and shining star. Tara is the power that uplifts us to higher levels of spiritual understanding, giving us the strength to transcend our troubling thoughts. It is also said that Tara is the form of the Goddess as Aum - the original mantra from which all of creation arose. She has an etheric appearance. Through the grace of Goddess Tara we can understand the deep meaning of mantras. She gives the gift of poetry and the ability to speak and communicate well. But all, Tara is the radiant knowledge of perfect, true knowledge. "
-snip-
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes! Azizi
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TAREN; TARYN
um im about to have a baby boy and i was thinking of the name Taren and i was just wondering the meaning of that name..
-Tasha; 9/25/2006
Editor:
Congratulations on expecting your baby. I have found a number of online sources for the name Taren. http://www.celticbug.com/Taryn/Meaning.html indicates that the name Taren is a form of the name "Taryn". Other spellings of that name are Tarin, Taran, Tarun, Terin, Tarran, Teryn, Taryne, and Tehren.
Although http://www.celticbug.com/Taryn/Meaning.html says that the name Taryn is both a girl's and a boy's name, most online sources list Taryn and its various spellings as a girl's name. http://www.parenthood.com/babynames_searchresults.html?searchName=Taryn indicate that Tayrn is a feminine form of the male name Tyrone. {Tyrone is of Gaelic origin. it is usually pronounced TY-rohn and it means Owen's land}.
http://www.celticbug.com/Taryn/Meaning.html lists these different origins & meanings for the name Taryn {and all the variant spellings}: Scots-Gaelic {Tender/Innocent}; Irish-Gaelic {Rocky Hill}; Norse/Celtic {Thunder}; Latin {Of The Earth}; English {Tower}; Greek {The Reaper}; Hebrew {Wild Goat}; Arabic {To carry}; Sanskrit {Young}; Greco-Roman {Queen}. That website also notes that there is a Celtic God of Thunder whose name is 'Tarranis".
In the United States, the name Taryn {Taren} is most often pronounced to rhyme with the female name Karen. This is another reason why I would be hesitant about given this name to a boy. While it is true that every person should wear his or her name proudly, it's more difficult to do that when a male has a name that most people around him thinks is female {and vice versa}.
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
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TAMARA
"Tamara" is a Hebrew female name meaning "date" {the edible fruit} or date palm tree, or palm tree. I have also seen the meaning "upright" given for this name. See http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tamar_(name) for more information on this name.
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
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TARIQ; TAREK; TARIK; TAREEK
Here's some information about the male name "Tariq" from its Wikipedia page
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/T%C4%81riq
"Tāriq (Arabic: طارق ) an Arabic given name. It is common first male name in Middle East, Central Asia and South Asia
Various transliterations include Taariq, Tarik, Tareq, Tarek, Taric. Tarick, Tareeq, Thariq, Tareque, and Tarique.
The name Tariq from the Sufi tradition (the Tariqas orders) has three related meanings in the Arabic language:
Ṭāriq, the noun related to the Arabic verb ṭaraqa (Arabic: طرق meaning "messenger / knocking") and thus meaning deliverer of messages / the knocking one
The Qur'an names the morning star ṭāriq and describes it as the shining star that leads the way. Recent discoveries about pulsar stars have prompted some scholars[who?] to associate those neutron stars with ṭāriq, where knocking equates to pulsing.
"Traveler through the night", or more specifically a "pathbreaker" or "pathfinder" or "he who leads the way"."
-snip-
"Tareek" is probably an American variant of that Arabic name. It should be noted that all Arabic speaking people are not Muslim, and all people who have Arabic names are not Muslim. This is particularly the case with African Americans who have Arabic names.
--Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
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TENE; TENNE; TENNA; TENEA; TENAY
where does the name tene come from and what does it mean
-Tene, 8/23/2006
**
I would like information on the origin of the name "Tenna". I believe this name to be West African. Thank you
- Patricia ; 8/29/2006
Editor:
The Book Of African Names {author: Chief Osuntoki, published in 1991 by Black Classic Press} lists the name "Tene" {pronounced teh-NAY} as a West African female name. The meaning that book gives for this name is "love". I remember reading somewhere that "Tene" is from the Yoruba language of Nigeria, West Africa, but that book is hiding from me right now.
http://www.adtan.com/origin-African-250 lists the name "Tene" as a name that can be given to either females or males. That website indicates that Tene is from Africa {but does not give a country or language}. That website also says that the name Tene means "love". This meaning might be interpreted as "loveable" or "one who is loved".
For an alternative meaning, Julia Stewart's 1,000 African Names: First & Last Names from the African Continent {Carol Publishing Group, 1996}, gives this meaning for the female name "Tenen", pronounced {teh-NAY}; "female born on Monday". "Tanisha" is another West African female name that means "female born on Monday".
The name "Tenne" probably has the same meaning as "Tene". Also, the female name "Tenea", {pronounced either tah-NAY-ah or teh-NAY} and similarly spelled names, probably are variant forms of "Tene".
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
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TAVIA- See the entry for Latavia
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TEMITOPE (nicknames: TOPE; TEMI)
http://www.behindthename.com/name/temitope : Masculine/Feminine Yoruba (Nigeria) name that means "enough to give thanks".
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
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TERRA; TIERRA
I was wondering if you knew where the name Terra originated from???
-Keonia; 1/20/2007
Editor:
http://www.thinkbabynames.com/meaning/0/Terra provides this information:
"The girl's name Terra \t(er)-ra\ is pronounced TARE-ah. It is of Latin origin, and its meaning is "Earth". Mythology: the Roman earth goddess, equivalent to the Greek Gaia. May also be from the female Terence [see below] or a short form of Teresa.
Terra has 5 variant forms: Tera, Terah, Terrah, Tiera and Tierra".
-snip-
"Terence" is usually given as a male name. http://www.behindthename.com/php/view.php?name=terence
and other websites indicates that Terence came from the Roman royalty family name Terentius, but has no known meaning.
For an alternative source for the name Terra, see the entry for Teron below.
In addition, the name Tierra could have been created by rhyming the female name
"Sierra" or "Cierra". See the entry for Sierra for the meanings of these name
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
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TERON
I am Teron and I would like to know what my name means
-Teron; 9/14/2006
Editor:
The name "Teron" is probably a form of the Greek male name "Theron". This name means "hunter".
See http://www.thinkbabynames.com/search/1/greek/19 for this name origin & meaning. In order to understand the full meaning of this name, you should think about all the abilities and skills needed to be a good hunter, including a capacity for physical endurance & good reflexes, and a quick & alert mind. Traditionally, all these attributes are implied by this one word meaning.
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
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TESS
,,,What does the name Tess mean?...
-Tess; 12/24/2006
Editor:
"Tess" is a short form of the English female name "Theresa" or the Italian or Spanish female name Teresa.
"Tessa" is one form of this name. See this information on the name Theresa {Teresa} from http://www.behindthename.com/php/view.php?name=theresa :
"Teresa-; Gender: Feminine; Usage: English, German, Scandinavian; Pronounced: te-RAY-sa (English), te-REE-sa (English), te-RE-zah (German) [key]
From the Spanish and Portuguese name Teresa. The meaning is uncertain, but it could be derived from Greek θερος (theros) "summer", from Greek θεριζω (therizo) "to harvest", or from the name of the Greek island of Thera (the main island of Santorini). A famous bearer was Maria Theresa, an Austrian Habsburg queen of the 18th century. She inherited the domains of her father, Charles VI, the Holy Roman Emperor, which began the War of the Austrian Succession."
"Tess" is the name of the main character in Thomas Hardy's novel Tess of the D'Ubervilles.
-snip-
Because so many of us live in urban communities, we don't realize the importance of harvest time. It's important to reflect on the symbolism of that time. And it's important to
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
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TEMITAY0[ TEMIDAY0P TAMILADE
i want t find the meaning of my name. I am a nigerian american
-Temitayo; 1/22/2007
Editor:
Temitayo, your name is from the Yoruba language of Nigeria. Yoruba names are created from combining elements that have specific meanings. These elements can be used as either a prefix {at the beginning of a name} or suffix {at the end of a name}. "Temitayo" is created from the elements "temi" and {t} "ayo". The element "temi" {tay-me} means "my" or "mine". The element "ayo" {eye-yoh} means "joy".
http://www.onlinenigeria.com/nigeriannames/Default.asp?search=y&page=90 lists several names that begin with the element "temi". The same information is given for the names "Temitayo" and "Temidayo":
"gender: unisex; language: Yoruba; meaning " Mine has been turned to joy". In standard American English, this meaning may be reworded as "my life has turned to joy". "Temitayo" and "Temidayo" may also be said to mean "my joy" or "joy is mine". This name probably reflects the joy that your family felt when you were born. OnlineNigeria.com lists other names that begin with the element "temi". Another example is the name "Temilade" -temi+ {l} ade. The element "ade" means "crown". Temilade is a Yoruba male or female {unisex} name which means "Mine is the crown" {The crown is mine}.
*I'm unsure about the traditional pronunciation. In American English, the accent is usually on the next to the last syllable. Therefore, in American English, the name Temitayo would be pronounced tay-me-TIE-yoh and the name Temilade would be pronounced tay-me-LAH-day"
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
****
TAIWO- See the entry for Kehinde.
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TIYANNA; TIYANA; TAHTIONA; TATIANA; TY'YANNA; TIANA
I am Tiyanna and I would like to know what my name means.
-Tiyanna; 9/24/2006
**
What does Tahtiona mean?
-Rhonda; 10/18/2006
Editor:
The name "Tiyanna" could be a contemporary female name which is made by combining the element "Ti" {pronounced "tee" or pronounced "tie" {"tie" rhymes with the words "why" and "lie"} + the element 'yahn {usually pronounced YAHN} = the element 'na' [pronounced "nah"]. If so, this name could have no established meaning.
The name Tiyanna could be a contemporary form of the name "Titania"
http://www.thinkbabynames.com/meaning/0/Titania gives this information for that name:
"The girl's name Titania is of Greek origin, and its meaning is "giant." Mythology: the Titans were a race of giants. Literary: Titania is the Queen of the Fairies in Shakespeare's "A Midsummer Night's Dream." Titania has 5 variant forms: Tania, Tita, Titaniya, Titanya and Tiziana"
-snip-
"Tiyanna" and Tahtiona are probably versions of the name Titiania.
That same website also indicates that the female name Titania is related to the name "Tatiana".
See this information for that name:
"The girl's name Tatiana is pronounced tah-sh'-AHN-ah. It is of Russian and Latin origin. Feminine form of Tatius, a Roman family clan name. A king by this name was said to have reigned over the Sabines and the Romans with the legendary Romulus. Also a saint's name. Caroline Kennedy Schlossberg named her second daughter Tatiana. See also Tiana. Actress Tatyana Ali; opera star Tatiana Troyannos.
Tatiana has 11 variant forms: Tania, Tanya, Tati, Tatianna, Tatie, Tatijana, Tatiyana, Tatjana, Tatyana, Tatyanna and Tonya." http://www.thinkbabynames.com/meaning/0/Tatiana
-snip-
Also, see this information from http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tatiana_(name)
"Tatiana (Russian: Татьяна; also romanized as Tatyana, Tatianna, Tatjuana Tatijana, and Tateyanna) is a Slavic female name derived from the Roman name Tatianus, which was derived from the Roman clan name Tatius. Titus Tatius was a king. The short form of the name is Tanya (Russian: Таня).
The name honours Orthodox Saint Tatiana (Святая Татьяна, Svyataya Tat'yana) who was tortured and martyred in the persecutions of Emperor Alexander Severus c.230 in Rome. Saint Tatiana is also considered a patron saint of students. Hence, Tatiana Day is now an official school holiday for students in Russia.
Tatiana Larina is the heroine of Alexander Pushkin's celebrated novel-in-verse Eugene Onegin. In the poem Pushkin suggests that the name Tatiana was more common for peasants than for well-born women in the early 19th century. The poem was and continues to be extremely popular in Russia. The character of Tatiana Larina inspired the names of two Romanovs: Princess Tatiana Konstantinovna of Russia and her distant cousin Grand Duchess Tatiana Nikolaevna of Russia."
-snip-
Tiyanna could also be a form of the name Tatiana. Therefore, this name could be said to be of American [?] origin by way of Russia, or Greece, or Italy {Latin/Rome}. And since giants were said to be strong, the name Tiyanna could be said to have that same connotation. And since the name Tatiana is from the family name of kings, the name Tiyanna could also be said to have that connotation. So you could say that Tiyanna means the "strong, royal one". i've also seen the name "Titiana" given the meaning "fairy queen".
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
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THABO
http://en.wiktionary.org/wiki/Appendix:Zulu_given_names- Male Zulu name which means "happiness"
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
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THANDEKA
http://en.wiktionary.org/wiki/Appendix:Zulu_given_names- female Zulu name which means "beloved"
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
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THANDIWE; THANDI (nickname)
http://en.wiktionary.org/wiki/Appendix:Zulu_given_names- female Zulu name which means "loved"
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
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THULANI
http://en.wiktionary.org/wiki/Appendix:Zulu_given_names - male Zulu name meaning
"be still / quiet (used as a consolation, 'hush')"
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
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TIFFANY, LASEAN (LaSean), and FAUNETT
Hello I wanted to find out the meaning of a couple of names and they are, Tiffany, LaSean, and Faunett. Thank you very much.
-tiffany; 6/9/2006
Editor:
See this information from http://www.thinkbabynames.com/meaning/0/Tiffany : "The girl's name Tiffany is pronounced TIF-a-nee. It is of Greek origin, and its meaning is "revelation of God." Variant of the Greek Theophania. In many Christian countries, girls born on January 6, the Feast of the Epiphany, are given some form of this name. The feast commemorates the day when the three Magi saw the infant Jesus. To modern Christians, the Magi were Gentiles, and thus their visit to the baby Jesus is the "revelation of God" to the non-Jewish world. Now, the name is associated with Tiffany & Co, the New York jeweler, giving it connotations of upper-class luxury".
-snip-
Also, see this excerpt from http://www.tiffany.org/info/name.html
"Long before the contemporary pop singer arose, the name "Tiffany" has been a popular name, with connotations of elegance and class. Here is some information on its origins, and the various uses to which it has been put.
1200 AD - "Tifinie" is used in Old French to mean "Epiphany." It derived from a similar Late Latin word which in turn came from the Greek "theophaneia," meaning an appearance or manifestation of God. ("Theo" = God, "phaneia" = appearance; the "phan..." element is related to such words as "phantom," "fantasy," and "fancy," but not to the "fan" in "fan club" or "fanzine," which is short for "fanatic," and is from a completely different etymological source.) A later French spelling is "tiphanie."
1600 - "Tiffany" has been borrowed into English, and has taken on its modern spelling. It is used occasionally as a synonym for "Epiphany," and also as a name for a kind of light silk or gauze".
[See the alphabetical listings for the other two names]
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
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TISHUN; TYSON; TIESON; TYCEN
I would like to know what Tishun means in the french language and or any other languages.
-Tishun M.; 10/12/2008
Editor:
increasingly since the 1980s, in the United States, and maybe elsewhere, there has been a movement to spell names and other words closer to the way that they are pronounced. As part of this "movement", the way a word looks is almost as important as the way it sounds. Uniqueness is prized. And one way that a name can be made to look unique, is substituting vowels. I remember learning in school that the letter "y" is sometimes used instead of the letter "i". That rule, plus the custom of spelling words and names as they sound, leads me to believe that your name "Tishun", is a unique, contemporary form of the name "Tyson". Information about the origin and meaning of the name "Tyson" also leads me to believe that your name is a form of that personal name {first or middle name} or surname {last name}. See the information that is found on http://www.thinkbabynames.com/meaning/1/Tyson :
"The boy's name Tyson \t(y)-son\ is pronounced TY-sun. It is of Old French origin, and its meaning is "high-spirited". Also a modern name possibly related to the Old French Tison. In the Middle Ages, women known by the Latin name Dionysia (feminine form of the source of Dennis) were called Dye as a nickname. Over time, this became a surname - "Dye's son", which is also a possible source form of Tyson. Boxing star Mike Tyson.
Tyson has 7 variant forms: Thyssen, Tiesen, Ty, Tyce, Tycen, Tyeson and Tyssen".
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi.
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TOSHA
what does my name (tosha) mean? i have been wondering forever and i just dont feel complete without knowing what my name means.
-Tosha, 7/28/2006
Editor:
Tosha, one way people can feel good about themselves is knowing that their name has a positive meaning. Of course, there are many ways a person can learn to feel good about herself or himself.
In some cultures throughout the world name meanings are important. In other cultures, name meanings aren't important at all. In the United States, the sound {and to a much lesser extent the look} of a name is much more important than its meaning. Some names have established meanings, and some do not. If a name has a positive meaning, that meaning may be able to help a person feel good about her or himself. If a name has no established meaning {because it is a "contemporary" name}, then, I believe that a person can create a positive meaning for that name.
Some contemporary names are created by changing some letters and/or adding a prefix {beginning syllable} and/or adding a suffix {ending syllable} to a name that already exists. Another way of creating a contemporary name is to combine parts of two already existing names. Still another way of "making up a name" is use an already existing nickname as a name. That nickname then becomes a 'real name' .
All of this to say, in my opinion, the name "Tosha" is a nickname of "Latosha" {"LaTosha"}. If Tosha is your real name, and not a nickname, then the nickname "Tosha" was graduated to become a full name. Given this, we return to your question, "What does Tosha {Latosha} mean?
My response differs from a lot of baby name books and websites. Most books and websites indicate that Latosha {and its nickname Tosha} as well as the similar names Latasha {and its nickname Tasha} and Latisha {and its nickname Tisha} are contemporary American female names that have no established meanings. My position is that each of these names are either contemporary American variants [forms of] the female name "Letitia" or the female name "Natasha" or these names were created by combining the names Letitia and Natasha.
If a name has an established meaning, my view is that any name that is a variation of that name, also carries its established meaning. Also, names that are created by combining two already existing names, retain the meanings of those two names. However, I also believe that if she or he wants to, a person can give a new meaning to a new name or to an already existing name.
Given these points, the name "Latosha" {"Tosha"} either has the same meaning as the name "Letitia" or the name "Latosha" {Tosha} has the same meaning as the name "Natasha". Or the name Latosha {Tosha} has the same meaning as the names Letitia and Natasha. Another possibility is that the name "Tosha" was created by substituting the letter "o" for the letter "a" in the nickname "Tasha"
http://www.babyhold.com/list/American_Baby_Names/Latisha/details/ is one website that gives the meaning of the female name "Letisha" as a "modern form of the medieval name "Letitia" [meaning] "Joyful; happy".
Here's additional information about the name Letitia from other sources:
Letitia-female name {Latin} means "joy". Variant forms of this name include "Leticia", "Letice", "Letizia", "Laetitia, Laticia "Letycia", "Leetice", "Leta", "Letty", "Tisha", and "Ticia".
Because African Americans and other people nowadays pronounced Letitia as "lah TISH-sha", some people have adopted that particular spelling to better reflect the way that name sounds. Once that name is spelled "Latasha", it's an easy step to give that name a unique look & sound by replacing the "a" in "tasha" with an "o" to create the name "Latosha". Of course, that name could be made even more uniqe by capitalizing the "'t" {LaTosha} or adding an apostrophe {La'Tosha} or spelling it with a hypen {La-Tosha}. In my opinion, the female names "Letitia" or {and?} "Natasha" are the source of all of these names.
Here's some information about the name "Natasha" from various sources:
Natasha is a the Russian form of the Latin female name "Natalie" and "Nathalie". The names Natasha, Natalie, Nathalie mean "born on Christmas day" .
So what in the world does the name "Tosha" mean? Well, that name may mean "one who is joyful, or one who gives {or brings} joy". The name "Tosha" may also mean "one who is born on the birthday of our Lord" {"born on Christmas day"}. Traditionally, people born on the same day as Jesus were thought to be special. Of course, every one is special in his or her own way.
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
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TRAIMAIN; TRAMAINE; TREMAINE
http://www.thinkbabynames.com/meaning/1/Tramaine - "The boy's name Tramaine \t-ramai-ne, tr(a)-maine\ is a variant of Tremain (Celtic), and the meaning of Tramaine is "town built with stone". "
-snip-
"Traimaine" can also be given as a female name. A famous example is the noted Gospel singer "Traimaine Hawkins". The meaning "town built with stone" can be interpreted to mean someone who is strong & endures regardless of any difficulties that may occur.
-snip-
http://www.meaning-of-names.com/welsh-names/tramaine.asp -"In Welsh, the name Tramaine means- From the big town.. Other origins for the name Tramaine include - Welsh, English. The name Tramaine is most often used as a male name. "
-snip-
Centuries ago, being "from the big town" conveyed high status to a person. Thus this name carries some status.
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
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TURIA
I know my name belongs to a River, a Roman woman,a fictional world in a book and on the net and a bathtub, but I realy would like to know what it means and if it has anything to do with the War of Troy or Greece. Thanks
-Turia; 12/1/2006
Editor:
The name Turia is mentioned online as first name and a surname. I also saw mention of the Roman woman named Turia and the science fiction world name Turia. But I believe that Turia is used name as a place name for the area near the Turia river. Actually, there are two Turia rivers-one in Spain and one in the Ukraine. See this information for the Turia River in Spain:
"The River Turia (Valencian: Riu Túria; Spanish: Río Turia; Latin: Turium) is a river running through the Valencian Country and reaching the sea at the City of Valencia." http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/River_Turia
-snip-
Also, see this information on the Spanish city Valencia:
"The Moors then took advantage of the situation and occupied Valencia in 709 A.D. Valencia has been the home of many cultures over its history with Romans, Visigoths, Moors and the Aragonese all making the city an important cultural and financial center. However, the muslims had the greatest influence. Under the Moors Valencia prospered with trade in olives, rice, paper, silk, leather, ceramics, glass gold and silver-work..." http://www.spanishabroad.com/spain/Valencia/val_history.htm
-snip-
The Islamic Moors who had such a heavy influence on Valencia and other parts of Spain spoke Arabic, it's possible that the name Turia has an Arabic source. http://www.ummah.net/family/fem.html has a listing for the female name "Thurayya" which means "star". Over time, this name could have become Turia. We may never know if "Thurayya" was the source of the name Turia. As an alternative source, you might try to find the meaning of the Latin word "turium". I attempted to find the meaning of that word, but I wasn't successful in doing so. Personally, I like the Arabic source & meaning. But since it's your name, you get to decide if you are comfortable with that source & meaning. Whatever you decide,
(Also, see the entry for Valencia that is posted below).
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
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TYREE
"Tyree" is a male name that I believe is of African American derivation. It's my understanding that the name "Tyree" is not a newly created (post 1960s) African American name, but has been given to African American males for generations. I believe that the name "Tyree" came from the the Lebanon (Phoenician) city of Tyre. African Americans usually pronounce the name "Tyree" tie-REE. Since "Tyre" is mentioned in both the Old Testament and the New Testament, I believe that when people gave this name to boys they thought that were giving a Bibilical name.
Here's some information about "Tyre" from its Wikipedia page http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tyre,_Lebanon
"Tyre is an ancient Phoenician city and the legendary birthplace of Europa and Elissa (Dido). Today it is the fourth largest city in Lebanon[4] and houses one of the nation's major ports. Tourism is a major industry. The city has a number of ancient sites, including its Roman Hippodrome which was added to UNESCO's list of World Heritage Sites in 1979...
In the time of King David (c. 1000 BC), a friendly alliance was entered into between the Kingdoms of Israel and Tyre, which was ruled by Hiram I.
The city of Tyre was particularly known for the production of a rare and extraordinarily expensive sort of purple dye, produced from the murex shellfish, known as Tyrian purple. This color was, in many cultures of ancient times, reserved for the use of royalty, or at least nobility."
-snip-
Given the fact that the city of Tyre was known for its production of royal purple dye, one meaning that could be given the name "Tyree" is "the royal one".
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
U.V.W
[Editor: Due to my mistake or a computer glitch, I've lost the records for names/nicknames beginning with the letters U-Z. My apologies to those who may have written asking about any names or who may have writtedn & provided information about name beginning with those letters. I'm adding the following names to this page. Please send any additional entries for names beginning with those letters, or for other letters to cocojams17@yahoo.com. Thank you.]
ULA; ULAH
http://www.sudairy.com/arabic/fem.html#U -'Ula - Uppermost, highest
-Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
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UMAR
-See the entry for Omar
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USAMA; OSAMA
http://www.behindthename.com/name/usama and http://www.sudairy.com/arabic/masc.html#U - "Lion; like a lion"
-snip-
Because lions are royal animals, any name that means "Lion" is a royalty or high status name.
- Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
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UTHMAN
http://www.sudairy.com/arabic/masc.html#U- masculine Arabic name meaning "Name of the third Caliph"
-snip-
http://www.islamic-world.net/khalifah/definition.htm- "Khalifah" is an Arabic word literally meaning "one who replaces someone else who left or died" (English: caliph). In the context of Islam, however, the word acquires a narrower meaning. The Muslim Khalifa is the successor (in a line of successors) to Prophet Muhammad's position as the political, military, and administrative leader of the Muslims. The prophetic role of Muhammad is strictly not included in this definition, as the Qur'an and Hadith clearly state that Muhammad was the last of the prophets. Khilafa is a related Arabic word which, in the context of Islam, is used to denote the government of the Muslim state, of which the Khalifa is the head. A workable analogy of Khalifa and Khilafa is president and presidency or king and monarchy.
-snip-
Since a Caliph was a government ruler, this name confers high status.
- Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
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WAFIQ; WAFEEQ
http://www.sudairy.com/arabic/masc.html#W -Masculine Arabic name meaning "one who is successful" (The female forms of this name are "Wafiqah" and "Wafeeqah")
- Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
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WALIDAH; WALEEDAH
http://www.ummah.net/family/fem.html -female Arabic name meaning "Newborn" (masculine forms are "Walid"; "Waleed")
- Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
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WASIM; WASEEM
http://www.sudairy.com/arabic/masc.html#W -Masculine Arabic name meaning "Graceful, good looking"
- Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
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YAMINAH
http://www.ummah.net/family/fem.html - Arabic female name meaning "Right and proper"
- Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
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YASMINE; YASMIN. YASMEEN
http://www.ummah.net/family/fem.html - Arabic female name meaning "Jasmine". This "Refers to the climbing plant with delicate, fragrant flowers... The name was made popular by character Princess Jasmine in the film "Aladdin" (1990) http://www.thinkbabynames.com/meaning/0/Jasmine.
- Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
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YOLANDA; YOLANDE;YOLANTHE, IOLA
http://www.thinkbabynames.com/meaning/0/Yolanda- "Greek and Spanish origin, and its meaning is "violet flower"....Yolanda has 26 variant forms: Eolande, Eolantha, Iola, Iolanda, Iolande, Iolantha, Iolanthe, Jolan, Jolanna, Jolanne, Jolanta, Jolantha, Jolanthe, Yalinda, Yalonda, Yola, Yolaiza, Yoland, Yolande, Yollande, Yolantha, Yolanthe, Yolette, Yolie, Yolonda and Yulanda.
-snip-
It's interesting that this name appears to be commonly pronounced differently by African Americans and non-African Americans. African Americans usually pronounce this name "yoh-LON-dah. But it appears that non-African Americans pronounce it yoh-LAN-dah.
- Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
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YOUSSEF; YUSEF; YUSUF
http://www.sudairy.com/arabic/masc.html#Y -Masculine Arabic name meaning "To increase (in power and influence); a Prophet's name (Joseph)"
- Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
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ZAID; ZAYD
http://www.sudairy.com/arabic/masc.html#Z -Masculine Arabic name meaning
"to increase, growth, abundance"
- Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
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ZAIN; ZAYN
http://www.sudairy.com/arabic/masc.html#Z -Masculine Arabic name meaning
"Beauty"
-snip
This meaning could refer to one who is handsome or the beauty of the world.
- Wear your name proudly! Best wishes, Azizi
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Inquiries and information about "non-standard" names & nicknames can be sent to cocojams17@yahoo.com. Please remember to include the gender of the name if you know it. Thanks!
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