Swahili baby names

36 names with Swahili roots, each one with what it actually means. 9 of them are still given to 40 or more babies a year.

In common use

Given to at least 40 babies a year in the US or England and Wales.

  • Zuribeautiful858 a year · the US, 2017
  • Niapurpose or intention138 a year · England and Wales, 2025
  • Imanifaith or belief606 a year · the US, 2017
  • Nalasuccessful, graceful66 a year · England and Wales, 2025
  • Jelanimighty; powerful132 a year · the US, 2017
  • Jaharijewel, treasure87 a year · the US, 2017
  • Kamarialike the moon72 a year · the US, 2017
  • Adiagift49 a year · the US, 2017
  • Kahariwarrior; fighter42 a year · the US, 2017

Rarer names

Fewer than 40 babies a year in either country — which often means a name in wide use somewhere the records do not reach.

Which of these would you actually choose?

Put them head-to-head and find out. Every name here can be voted on.

Play now

Browse the other origins