There’s something magical about the Yoruba language. Every word carries rhythm, meaning, and emotion. But among all its treasures, oriki names in Yoruba stand out as pure poetry. They’re not just names; they’re stories, praise songs, and identity capsules that tell where a person comes from, what their family values, and the greatness that runs in their blood.
In the Yoruba culture, oriki, which means praise poetry, is like a musical form of history. It carries the heartbeat of lineage, tradition, and destiny. When parents give Yoruba oriki names, they are not just naming a child; they are planting power in words. Each name praises the child’s roots and reminds them of the greatness that flows through their family line.
Let’s dive into a vibrant list of oriki names for children, their meanings, and what makes them so special.
What Oriki Means to the Yoruba People
To the Yoruba, an oriki is more than praise. It is identity. It’s how you are introduced with pride and how you are reminded of your worth when life gets hard. When someone recites your oriki, it’s like they’re calling on your ancestors to recognise you and give you strength.
That’s why oriki names in Yoruba are poetic, layered, and powerful. They’re not random; each word is chosen for its meaning and vibration. Even hearing your oriki can change your mood, restore your confidence, and make you stand tall.
Why Oriki Names Matter for Children
Giving oriki names for children is like giving them a birthright of pride and resilience. These names serve as daily affirmations of strength, beauty, and purpose. Yoruba parents often say that a child grows into the meaning of their name, and with oriki, that meaning is always rich and regal.
Oriki names also help preserve culture in a world that’s becoming increasingly digital. In the same way that technology and AI are connecting us globally, names connect us back to our roots. For many Yoruba families, combining cultural pride with modern identity is how they keep tradition alive in this fast-paced world.
This is a list of complete Yoruba oriki names for male and female children, where each name serves as a heading, followed by a paragraph detailing its meaning. These names are a form of panegyric (Orúkọ Oríkì) designed to praise the bearer and influence their character.
Female Yoruba Oriki Names
Female Yoruba oriki names are soft, graceful, and deeply affectionate. They highlight beauty, tenderness, and the strength that women carry within families. Names like Arike, Ajike, Adunni, and Ajibike are not just words of praise — they are endearments that express love, respect, and admiration. Each name carries a story, a tone of pride, and a reminder of the special role women play in nurturing, preserving culture, and uplifting lineage. In Yoruba households, these oriki names are often used to call women lovingly, to bless them, or to honor their presence.
Àríké
This oriki name in Yoruba translates to “Meant to be pampered on sight.” It is given to a child who is so inherently lovely and captivating that her mere presence compels everyone who sees her to love and shower her with affection. The name projects a destiny of being cherished, beloved, and well-cared for throughout her life.
Àdùké
Meaning “One that people will compete to pamper her,” Àdùké implies a child of such delightful nature that she becomes the center of attention, with family members vying for the privilege of spoiling her. This name emphasises a highly favoured and universally loved personality.
Àsàké
Àsàké means “Selected or chosen for pampering.” This name suggests a special status within the family, indicating that the child was purposefully chosen or set aside for extraordinary love and special treatment. It signifies a unique and valued place in the household.
Àbèní
This name translates to “We begged to have this child.” Àbèní is often given to a child who arrived after a period of waiting, or whose birth was preceded by prayers and great desire. It powerfully communicates the child’s immense value and the gratitude of the parents for her arrival.
Àjàké
Àjàké means “Jointly cherished” or “Meant to be taken care of by all.” It points to a child who is not only loved by the immediate parents but is the collective pride and responsibility of the entire extended family and community.
Àbèké
This beautiful oriki means, “We begged her (to allow us) to pamper her.” Àbèké suggests a child who is not only cherished but may possess a gentle nature that requires coaxing to accept the immense love and care being offered. It reinforces her status as an exceptionally precious and adored daughter.
Àníké
Meaning “Had (birthed) to be pampered,” Àníké is a name that establishes the child’s destiny as one who will be continually spoiled with good things and great attention. The name implies that the child’s existence necessitates special care and adoration from the family.
Àyìnké
This oriki translates to “One who is meant to praise and pet.” Àyìnké speaks to a child whose character inspires the family to shower her with constant praise and physical affection. The name encapsulates a joyful, well-loved, and endearing personality.
Àdùbí
The meaning of Àdùbí is “One we struggled to birth,” often used for a child born after a particularly difficult or complicated labour. It is a powerful affirmation of the victory achieved in her birth, signifying that the child is immensely valuable because of the hardship overcome to welcome her.
Àpéke
Àpéke means “Called or born to be cared for and cherished.” This name suggests that the child’s life is a constant calling for attention, affection, and protection. It assures the child that she is the family’s priority for care and pampering.
Àkànkẹ́
The meaning of Àkànkẹ́ is “One who is special to pamper” or “Specially selected for pampering.” Similar to Àsàké, this name emphasises that the child is a rarity, uniquely chosen and set apart to receive the utmost care and attention. It underscores the precious and highly valued nature of the daughter.
Àwèrò
Àwèrò translates literally to “One who is bathed and covered in wrappers,” a beautiful and poetic way of describing a child of great beauty and tenderness who is meticulously cared for. The name symbolises purity, meticulous nurturing, and an esteemed position within the family.
Àbèbí
This is another poignant oriki meaning “Begged to be birthed.” Àbèbí is often reserved for a child whose birth was medically or spiritually challenging, or one born after a series of sad events. The name is a declaration of triumph and a testament to the fact that the child’s life was a gift granted after much prayer or plea.
Àkàńjúkẹ́
A more elaborate oriki, Àkàńjúkẹ́ means “One whose presence is hurried to be pampered.” It speaks to a child who is so beloved that people rush to cater to her needs and shower her with affection, reinforcing her status as a high-priority, cherished member of the family.
Àmọ̀kẹ́
Àmọ̀kẹ́ translates to “Known about and cared for.” This name suggests that the child’s well-being is a public knowledge and concern, implying that she is a blessing recognised and looked after not just by the parents but by a wider circle of family and friends.
Àsàbí
This oriki means “Selected to be born.” Àsàbí is a name that signifies divine favour and intention, suggesting the child was carefully chosen by the spiritual forces (Òrìṣà) or God to be a member of the family. It bestows a sense of destiny and uniqueness upon the daughter.
Àkànyọ̀
Àkànyọ̀ translates to “One met with joy” or “Met only once to have this joy.” This name is a declaration that the child’s presence is a rare and profound source of happiness. It focuses on the sheer delight and celebratory atmosphere surrounding her birth.
Ọmọláníké
A longer, more descriptive oriki, Ọmọláníké means “The child whom we survived to care for.” This name powerfully communicates that the family overcame significant obstacles, perhaps illness or financial hardship, and their endurance was rewarded with the blessing of this daughter, whom they are now fully equipped to cherish.
Àdúgbẹ̀
This beautiful oriki translates to “One struggled to be carried” or “Competed over for attention.” Àdúgbẹ̀ suggests a child who is so charming and desirable that everyone, from parents to grandparents, vies for the chance to hold and care for her.
Àyọ̀ká
Àyọ̀ká means “One who causes joy to surround” or “Surrounded by joy.” This name suggests that the child is a bringer of perpetual happiness, making the atmosphere around her light and festive. She is seen as the catalyst for the family’s happiness.
Agbeke
The oriki Agbeke translates to “One carried in order to pet.” This name beautifully conveys the deep bond between parent and child, suggesting that the daughter is so cherished that she is constantly held and adored. It symbolises a life of comfort, security, and continual affection from her family.
Adunni
Adunni means “Daughter of a sweet person” or “One who is sweet to have.” This name praises the child’s inherent charming nature, affirming that her very presence is a delight and a source of sweetness to the family. She is regarded as a pleasant, joyful addition to the lineage.
Abeo
This poetic oriki, Abeo, is typically interpreted as a shortened form of Àbẹ̀ní Ọmọ Ẹwà, meaning “Begged for, a child of beauty.” It is a double affirmation, celebrating the child as both highly desired and exceptionally beautiful, both physically and in character.
Apinke
Apinke means “Called out to be pampered.” This name emphasises that the daughter is the primary focus of the family’s affection. No matter the situation, she is the one whose needs and wants are attended to first, solidifying her highly valued status.
Ayinke
The oriki Ayinke means “One whose care is sweet to behold.” This suggests that the process of looking after the child is a rewarding and pleasant experience for the caregivers. She is a non-troublesome and deeply satisfying presence in the family.
Male Yoruba Oriki Names
Male Yoruba oriki names often emphasise courage, strength, leadership, and legacy. They are used to praise men for bravery, wisdom, or royal lineage. Names like Ajani, Ajadi, Adebayo, and Ayinde echo pride and resilience, celebrating a man’s ability to protect and uphold his family’s name. These oriki names inspire confidence and dignity, reminding every Yoruba man of his worth, heritage, and responsibility. Whether spoken at ceremonies or in everyday greetings, they carry the power to uplift and affirm masculine strength within the Yoruba cultural identity.
Àjàní
A profound Yoruba oriki name for males, Àjàní means “A child we fought to have.” It signifies a highly valued and cherished son whose arrival was seen as a victory or struggle overcome by the family. The name imbues the bearer with a sense of worth and signifies that he is a son of great destiny.
Àkànbí
Àkànbí translates to “One who is consciously or deliberately born.” It suggests a child whose life is not by accident but by divine or purposeful intention. This name reflects high expectations and a future of importance, signalling a decisive and intentional character.
Àyíndé
Meaning “One who arrives amidst praise,” Àyíndé is an oriki that projects a life of achievement and recognition. It suggests that the child will grow up to do things worthy of being commended and celebrated. The name is intended to inspire a character that is admirable and respectable.
Àlàbí
This oriki name in Yoruba means “One born to the white cloth,” often linking the child to a family of piety, purity, or high honour, as the white cloth (aṣọ funfun) is associated with ritual purity and deities like Ọbàtálá. It is a praise name that affirms a noble and righteous heritage.
Àdìgún
Àdìgún translates to “The perfect one” or “Composed of rectitude.” It is a praise name that signifies a desire for the child to embody moral uprightness, correctness, and a flawless character. It is an affirmation of a noble and principled destiny.
Àyínlá
This oriki is translated as “Praised into greatness.” Àyínlá is a highly inspiring name, suggesting that encouragement, commendation, and honour are the fuel for the boy’s destiny. The family uses this oriki name in Yoruba to affirm their belief that their praise will lead him to high achievement and success.
Àlàó
Àlàó means “One destined to divide and conquer enemies.” This name bestows a fighting spirit and leadership qualities upon the child, projecting a future where he is strong, strategic, and capable of overcoming challenges and opposition.
Àjàgbé
Meaning “We fought to carry this child,” Àjàgbé is often given to a son whose survival or successful birth followed a series of struggles or losses. It makes him a symbol of the family’s resilience and determination, valuing him as a trophy of perseverance.
Àkàndé
Àkàndé means “One who purposefully came” or “Arrives in full determination.” It denotes a child of strong will, intentionality, and clear purpose in life. The name suggests a proactive and focused personality who will accomplish his goals.
Àremú
This Yoruba oriki name translates to “The one needing to be consoled before being picked up,” which is often associated with the first male child. Àremú suggests a highly pampered child who is precious and perhaps requires a bit of gentle handling before fully accepting care. It highlights his esteemed and favored position.
Ìṣọlá
A powerful name, Ìṣọlá means “The act of salvation or deliverance by wealth.” This oriki projects a destiny of economic success and prominence, suggesting that the child will grow up to be a person of means who uses his wealth or status to bring relief and honor to his family and community.
Ìyándá
Ìyándá is a name that means “One who extends the lineage.” This oriki carries a heavy responsibility, praising the child as the one who is destined to perpetuate the family name and ensure the continuity of their heritage, often emphasising the importance of his future progeny.
Àkànmú
This oriki means “One who is personally chosen.” Àkànmú implies a high level of favour and distinction. It suggests that the child was specially selected by his parents or for a great task in life, distinguishing him as a favoured and unique individual.
Àlàní
Àlàní translates to “One who survived to be possessed” or “One we survived to have.” This name is a statement of overcoming hardship, where the child’s successful arrival is a reward following a period of difficulty. It affirms the immense value and resilience of the son.
Àtàndá
A very poetic oriki, Àtàndá means “Lured to be created” or “One created to shine bright.” It gives the child an artistic and appealing quality, suggesting a person whose charm or brilliance was the very thing that encouraged his coming into the world. It foretells a luminous and impactful life.
Akanní
The meaning of Akanní is “Profitable encounter” or “Met only once to have this child.” Often given to a firstborn son, this name signifies that the child’s arrival brought good fortune, wealth, or a significant positive turning point for the family. He is regarded as an invaluable asset.
Ọmọlájà
A noble and protective oriki, Ọmọlájà means “A child that fights for the honour of his wealth” or “A child who settles a fight.” This name projects a future where the son is a protector, a mediator, and a defender of the family’s integrity and assets.
Àkàńgbé
Àkàńgbé translates to “One consciously or deliberately carried.” This name implies that the child’s conception, gestation, and birth were matters of careful attention and prayer. It speaks to a destiny of being firmly supported and carefully watched over throughout life.
Àjálá
The oriki Àjálá means “The one who has fought and survived.” This name is a powerful testament to the child’s innate strength and resilience, indicating a destiny where he will face challenges and emerge victorious, a true survivor and conqueror.
Àtándá
Àtándá is a poetic oriki meaning “One created to shine bright.” It endows the son with a destiny of brilliance, distinction, and visibility. He is expected to excel, stand out, and illuminate his family’s name through his accomplishments.
Amoo
A strong and protective oriki, Amoo is often associated with the phrase Amoo omo Akin (Amoo, the child of a warrior/brave one). It signifies the child’s inherited courage and strength, foretelling a life where he will exhibit bravery and fortitude.
Alagbe
Alagbe means “One who survived to be carried” or “The one who broke forth to be carried.” This oriki celebrates the child’s tenacious spirit and survival, often after a difficult start. It marks him as a resilient individual destined to overcome challenges.
Ajadi
Ajadi translates to “The end of conflict.” This powerful oriki name suggests that the child’s arrival or future actions will bring peace, resolution, and harmony to a long-standing dispute or problem within the family or community. He is born to be a peacemaker and a restorer of order.
Oriki names in Yoruba culture are more than just beautiful expressions; they are living connections to ancestry, pride, and identity. Each oriki carries the essence of heritage, telling stories that stretch across generations. These praise names remind every Yoruba child that they come from greatness, and that their existence continues a line of strength and honour.
In a world where modernity and technology often blur cultural lines, oriki remain timeless. They root us, remind us who we are, and keep our voices tied to the wisdom of our forebears. Whether it’s Arike, Ajike, or Adunni, every oriki name carries rhythm, grace, and power — a melody that speaks to the heart of what it means to be Yoruba.
Preserving and using oriki names keeps history alive. It ensures that every child grows up with a sense of pride, value, and belonging. The more we celebrate these names, the more we celebrate ourselves.
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Originally published by HoneyDrops Blog.