Xhosa names.
569 verified names from South Africa — each with its meaning, its sound, and its traditional spelling.
A
Abongileboy or girl“They have praised and given thanks”/ah-BONG-ee-leh/Akhileboy“He has built and established something lasting”/ah-KHEE-leh/Akhonaboy or girl“There is someone here; a cherished reminder of a child’s presence in the family”/ah-KHOH-nah/Akhulileboy“He has grown and flourished.”/ah-khoo-LEE-leh/Akhumziboy“He has built a home/homestead; a home-builder.”/ah-KHUM-zee/Alungileboy or girl“All is well; things are in a good state”/ah-loo-NGEE-leh/Amahleboy or girl“Beautiful things or beautiful people”/ah-MAH-hleh/Amamkelegirl“They have welcomed or accepted her.”/ah-mahm-KEH-leh/Amandlaboy or girl“Strength and power”/ah-MAHND-lah/Anathiboy or girl“They are with us—a beautiful celebration of family togetherness”/ah-NAH-tee/Andileboy or girl“They have grown and prospered”/ahn-DEE-leh/Andiswagirl“She has been increased or blessed with growth”/ahn-DEE-swah/Aneleboy or girl“The family feels complete; there is enough joy and blessing.”/ah-NEH-leh/Apheleleboy or girl“Complete; perfected; whole.”/ah-PHEH-leh-leh/Aphiweboy or girl“A child received as a precious gift, especially after waiting, prayer or difficulty.”/ah-PEE-weh/Asandaboy or girl“They have increased; a sign of growth and abundance”/ah-SAHN-dah/Asemahlegirl“They are beautiful; beauty has come”/ah-seh-MAH-hleh/Asipheboy or girl“Let us give.”/ah-SEE-peh/Asisiphogirl“We are a gift.”/ah-see-SEE-poh/Asiveboy or girl“Let us listen and understand”/ah-SEE-veh/Athabileboy or girl“They are joyful and content.”/ah-tah-BEE-leh/Avelagirl“One who has appeared or come forth”/ah-VEH-lah/Avulekileboy or girl“It is open; it has been opened.”/ah-voo-LEH-keh-leh/Avumilegirl“One who has willingly agreed or accepted”/ah-voo-MEE-leh/Avuyileboy or girl“Has rejoiced; is joyful.”/ah-voo-YEE-leh/Ayabongaboy“They give thanks; they are grateful.”/ah-yah-BONG-ah/Ayandaboy or girl“The family is growing and its blessings are increasing.”/ah-YAHN-dah/Azwileboy or girl“One who has been heard; a child whose arrival is received as an answer”/ah-ZWEE-leh/
B
Babaloboy“Grace”/bah-BAH-loh/Babalwagirl“Grace and blessing”/bah-BAHL-wah/Bambananiboy or girl“May this child help bring people together and strengthen the family.”/bahm-bah-NAH-nee/Bandileboy or girl“They have increased and prospered”/bahn-DEE-leh/Baneleboy or girl“A child who completes the family and brings a feeling of fullness.”/bah-NEH-leh/Bantuboy“people”/BAHN-too/Bantubonkeboy“all people”/bahn-too-BON-keh/Bathandwaboy or girl“Loved and cherished”/bah-TAHN-dwah/Beliswagirl“beautiful one; beautified one”/beh-LEE-swah/Bhekizizweboy“watch over the nations/people”/beh-keh-ZEE-zweh/Bhekumuziboy“look after the home/household”/beh-keh-MOO-zee/Bongaboy“Give thanks; be grateful”/BON-gah/Bonganiboy“Be thankful”/boh-NGAH-nee/Bongekagirl“be grateful; give thanks”/bon-GEH-kah/Bongekilegirl“has given thanks; is thankful”/boh-ngeh-KEE-leh/Bongileboy or girl“has given thanks; is thankful”/BON-gee-leh/Bonginkosiboy“Give thanks to the Lord”/boh-ngin-KOH-see/Bongiwegirl“A child who is gratefully received and praised”/boh-NGEE-weh/Bongolwethuboy“our praise; our thanksgiving”/bong-oh-LWEH-too/Bongumusaboy“give thanks for kindness/grace”/bong-goo-MOO-sah/Buhleboy or girl“Beauty and loveliness”/BOO-hleh/Bukelwagirl“Welcomed and received with joy”/boo-KEHL-wah/Bulelaniboy“Give thanks”/boo-leh-LAH-nee/Bulelwagirl“One for whom thanks are given”/boo-LEHL-wah/Bulumkoboy“Wisdom”/boo-LOOM-koh/Bumnandiboy or girl“A delightful child who makes life sweeter”/boo-MNAHN-dee/Busisiwegirl“Blessed and watched over with love”/boo-see-SEE-weh/Buthananiboy“gather together; come together”/boo-ta-NAH-nee/Buthongoboy“sleep”/boo-TONG-oh/Buyelaniboy“return”/boo-yeh-LAH-nee/Buyileboy or girl“The one who has returned, bringing joy back home”/boo-YEE-leh/Buyiswagirl“A precious child welcomed after loss, symbolising the return of hope and life to the family.”/boo-YEE-swah/
C
Cebilegirl“wealthy; prosperous”/keh-BEE-leh/Cebisagirl“One who advises or guides others”/seh-BEE-sah/Ceboboy“A counsellor and adviser”/CHEH-boh/Cetyiswagirl“be advised; be counselled”/click-eh-TYEE-swah/Chumaboy or girl“Wealth and treasured abundance”/CHOO-ma/Chumaniboy“May he live with cheerfulness and joy.”/choo-MAH-nee/Chumilegirl“She has prospered and flourished”/choo-MEE-leh/Chwayitagirl“be cheerful; smile; be bright”/chwah-YEE-tah/Cikizwagirl“A cherished little girl”/chee-KEEZ-wah/Cinganiboy“think”/tsee-NGAH-nee/Cingekagirl“be considered; be thought of”/tsing-EH-kah/Cwengaboy“purify; refine”/KWEH-ngah/
D
Dalibhungaboy“founder/creator of the council”/dah-lee-BOONG-ah/Dalisilegirl“She has brought happiness and delight”/da-lee-SEE-leh/Daliwongaboy“Creator of praise”/dah-lee-WONG-ah/Daluxoloboy“Bringer or creator of peace”/dah-loo-KSOH-loh/Daniyeliboy“God is my judge.”/dah-nee-YEH-lee/Davideboy“Beloved; deeply cherished.”/dah-VEE-deh/Duduzilegirl“Has been comforted; comforted.”/doo-doo-ZEE-leh/Dumileboy“Has become famous; is renowned.”/doo-MEE-leh/Dumisaboy or girl“Praise and honour”/doo-MEE-sah/Dumisaniboy“Praise; give praise.”/doo-mee-SAH-nee/Dumisileboy or girl“Has praised; has given praise.”/doo-mee-SEE-leh/Dunyiswagirl“Be praised; one who is praised.”/doo-nee-SWAH/
E
F
Fakuboy“A traditional Xhosa name carried through generations — its exact literal meaning isn't recorded, which is part of its story”/FAH-koo/Faloboy“A venerable traditional name associated with early Xhosa kingship”/FAH-loh/Fezekagirl“Be fulfilled; be complete; succeed.”/feh-ZEH-kah/Fezileboy“Has accomplished; has fulfilled.”/feh-ZEE-leh/Feziwegirl“Accomplished; brought to completion”/feh-ZEE-weh/Fikelekileboy“Has arrived; has reached the destination.”/fee-keh-LEH-kee-leh/Fikelephigirl“Where has she arrived?; where did she arrive?”/fee-keh-LEH-pee/Fikileboy or girl“Has arrived.”/fee-KEE-leh/Fikiswagirl“Has been brought; has been caused to arrive.”/fee-KEE-swah/Filipuboy“Lover of horses.”/fee-LEE-poo/Fumanekilegirl“Has been found.”/foo-mah-neh-KEE-leh/Fumilegirl“Prosperous; has become wealthy.”/foo-MEE-leh/Fumisagirl“One who makes prosper; one who brings prosperity.”/foo-MEE-sah/Fundileboy or girl“One who has learned; educated.”/foon-DEE-leh/Fundiswagirl“Has been taught; has been educated.”/foon-DEES-wah/Funekagirl“A much-needed and cherished child”/foo-NEH-kah/Fuzileboy or girl“A child who brings a sense of achievement and fulfilment”/foo-ZEE-leh/
G
Gabriyeliboy“God is my strength.”/gah-bree-YEH-lee/Gcalekaboy“A heritage name associated with the Gcaleka royal house and Xhosa history”/g-ah-LEH-kah/Gcinabantuboy“One who protects and cares for the people”/gtsi-nah-BAHN-too/Gcinikhayaboy“One who protects and cares for the home”/gkee-nee-KHAH-yah/Gcinilegirl“A treasured child carefully kept and protected”/gkee-NEE-leh/Gcinisizweboy“One who protects and preserves the nation”/gkee-nee-SEE-zweh/Gciniswagirl“Has been kept; has been protected or preserved.”/gchee-NEES-wah/Gcinumziboy“Guardian of the home”/gchee-noom-ZEE/Gcinwagirl“Be kept; be protected or preserved.”/gkee-nwah/Gcobaniboy“Rejoice; be happy.”/goh-BAH-nee/Gcobisagirl“One who brings happiness and joy”/goh-BEE-sah/Gugulethugirl“Our pride and joy”/goo-goo-LEH-too/
H
Hezekileboy“God strengthens; God is my strength.”/heh-zeh-KEE-leh/Hintsaboy“A distinguished traditional name associated with Xhosa kingship and heritage”/HEENT-sah/Hlengiwegirl“Redeemed or saved”/hlehn-GEE-weh/Hlonelaboy or girl“One who honors others and is honored in return”/hlo-NEH-lah/Hlonelwagirl“A daughter worthy of respect and honor”/hlo-NEL-wah/Hloniphileboy or girl“Respectful, dignified, and honorable”/hlo-nee-PHEE-leh/Hlumeloboy or girl“Growth and flourishing”/hloo-MEH-loh/Hlumisagirl“One who causes growth and flourishing”/hloo-MEE-sah/
I
Iminathiboy“He is with us; he stands with us.”/ee-mee-NAH-tee/Impumeleloboy or girl“Success, prosperity, and a life of achievement”/im-poo-meh-LEH-loh/Intsikeleloboy or girl“A blessing and a treasured gift to the family”/in-tsee-keh-LEH-loh/Isimiloboy or girl“Good character and disposition”/ee-see-MEE-loh/
J
Jolaboy or girl“To court, date, or be in a romantic relationship.”/JOH-lah/Jongaboy“Look; watch.”/JONG-ah/Jongikhayaboy“Watch over/look after the home.”/jong-gee-KHAH-yah/Jongilangaboy“Look at the sun.”/jong-ee-LAHN-gah/Jongileboy“Has looked; has watched.”/jon-GEE-leh/Jongintababoy“Look at the mountain.”/jong-in-TAH-bah/Jongumsobomvuboy“A traditional royal name associated with the early Xhosa kingdom”/jong-oom-soh-BOHM-voo/
K
Kamaboy“A traditional Xhosa name carried through generations — its exact literal meaning isn't recorded, which is part of its story”/KAH-mah/Khanyaboy or girl“A radiant person who brings light to others”/KHAHN-yah/Khanyisaboy or girl“Light up; bring light”/kha-nee-SAH/Khanyisilegirl“She has brought light”/kha-nee-SEE-leh/Khawutaboy“A traditional Xhosa name carried through generations — its exact literal meaning isn't recorded, which is part of its story”/kha-WOO-tah/Khayaboy“Home—a loving name for a child who makes the family feel complete”/KHAH-yah/Khayakazigirl“Girl/woman of the home.”/kha-ya-KA-zee/Khethiwegirl“The chosen one.”/kheh-TEE-weh/Kholekagirl“One who is trusted and believed in”/khoh-LEH-kah/Kholiswagirl“Be pleased/satisfied; one who is made happy or satisfied.”/kho-LEE-swah/Khulaniboy or girl“Grow; may you grow.”/khoo-LAH-nee/Khulileboy or girl“Has grown and flourished”/khoo-LEE-leh/Khuliswagirl“Be raised/nurtured.”/khoo-LEE-swah/Khululekaniboy or girl“Be free; be liberated.”/khoo-loo-leh-KAH-nee/Khululekileboy or girl“Freedom, openness and a life unburdened”/khoo-loo-leh-KEE-leh/Khululiwegirl“She has been set free”/khoo-loo-LEE-weh/Khululwagirl“Be freed; be released.”/khoo-LOOL-wah/Khumbileboy“Has remembered.”/khoom-BEE-leh/Khunjulwagirl“Is remembered; will be remembered.”/khoon-JOOL-wah/Khuthalaboy or girl“Be diligent; work hard.”/khoo-TAH-lah/Khwezelaboy“To kindle or ignite; also, in name use, to spur on or encourage.”/khweh-ZEH-lah/Khweziboy or girl“A guiding star and a bright new beginning”/KWEH-zee/Kreliboy“A traditional Xhosa name carried through generations — its exact literal meaning isn't recorded, which is part of its story”/KREH-lee/Kuhleboy or girl“Beautiful; good; goodness.”/KOO-hleh/Kwandaboy or girl“Increase; growth; becoming greater.”/KWAHN-dah/
L
Landiswagirl“She has been increased; she has been enlarged or multiplied.”/lan-dee-SWAH/Langaboy“Sunshine and warmth”/LAHN-gah/Lihleboy or girl“Joyful; happy”/LEE-hleh/Lindelwagirl“The long-awaited child”/lin-DELL-wah/Lindiwegirl“The long-awaited one”/lin-DEE-weh/Lindokuhleboy or girl“Wait for goodness/the good.”/leen-doh-KOO-hleh/Lithaboy or girl“Light that brightens the world”/LEE-tah/Liyabonaboy or girl“It sees; it will see.”/lee-yah-BOH-nah/Liyandaboy or girl“It is growing; it is increasing.”/lee-YAHN-dah/Liyemaboy or girl“It is standing; it stands firm.”/lee-YEH-mah/Lizoboy“Watchful and discerning”/LEE-zoh/Londiwegirl“She who has been cared for, guarded, or looked after.”/lon-DEE-weh/Lonwaboboy or girl“A child whose arrival fills the family with happiness.”/lon-WAH-boh/Loyisoboy or girl“Victory and triumph”/loh-YEE-soh/Lubabaloboy“Grace”/loo-bah-BAH-loh/Lukhanyoboy or girl“Light; a bright path into the future”/loo-KHAHN-yoh/Lukholoboy or girl“Faith and trust; a child who brings confidence and hope”/loo-KHOH-loh/Lulamaboy or girl“Peaceful, calm and gentle”/loo-LAH-mah/Lulamileboy or girl“One who has found peace”/loo-lah-MEE-leh/Lungaboy“Good, upright, and on the right path”/LOON-gah/Lungeloboy or girl“What is right; justice”/loon-GEH-loh/Lungileboy or girl“Good, well behaved, and upright”/LOON-gee-leh/Lungisaboy“To put right, repair, fix, or prepare.”/loon-GEE-sah/Lungiswagirl“She has been put right or prepared”/loon-GEE-swah/Lusandagirl“Growing and flourishing”/loo-SAHN-dah/Lusaphoboy or girl“Family; one who is cherished as part of the family”/loo-SAH-poh/Luthandoboy or girl“Love and affection”/loo-TAHN-doh/Luvuyoboy“Joy and happiness”/loo-VOO-yoh/Luxoloboy“Peace and calm”/luh-CLICK-oh-loh/Luyandaboy or girl“It is growing; it is increasing.”/loo-YAHN-dah/Luyoloboy or girl“Joy and happiness”/loo-YOH-loh/Luzukoboy“Glory, honor, and distinction”/loo-ZOO-koh/Lwandileboy or girl“The family has grown through the arrival of this child.”/lwan-DEE-leh/Lwandleboy or girl“The freedom, depth, and beauty of the ocean”/LWAHN-dleh/Lwandoboy“Love and affection; a child welcomed with warmth”/LWAHN-doh/Lwaziboy“Knowledge and understanding”/LWAH-zee/
M
Mabuthoboy“Regiments; troops; warriors.”/ma-BOO-toh/Madodaboy“Men.”/mah-DOH-dah/Makhandaboy“A historic Xhosa personal name, especially that of Makhanda (Nxele), an early nineteenth-century Xhosa spiritual and military leader.”/mah-KHAN-dah/Makhayaboy“Home; at home; belonging to the home.”/mah-KHAH-yah/Makhosazanagirl“Princesses or young women of chiefly dignity”/mah-kho-sah-ZAH-nah/Mamkeligirl“One who receives; a recipient.”/mam-KEH-lee/Mandisagirl“Pleasant, sweet-natured and kind”/mahn-DEE-sah/Mandlaboy“Strength, power, and the ability to lead”/MAHN-dla/Mangalisoboy or girl“A miracle child whose arrival brings wonder and renewed hope.”/man-gah-LEE-soh/Manqobaboy“Victories; conquests; one who conquers.”/mahn-KOH-bah/Maqomaboy“A traditional Xhosa name carried through generations — its exact literal meaning isn't recorded, which is part of its story”/mah-KOH-mah/Markoboy“A traditional Xhosa name carried through generations — its exact literal meaning isn't recorded, which is part of its story”/MAR-koh/Masakhaneboy or girl“Let us build together; let us build one another.”/mah-sah-KHAH-neh/Masandeboy or girl“Let us increase; let us multiply.”/mah-SAHN-deh/Masibambaneboy or girl“Let us hold onto one another; let us unite/stick together.”/mah-see-bahm-BAH-neh/Masibuleleboy“Let us give thanks; let us be thankful.”/mah-see-boo-LEH-leh/Masincedaneboy or girl“A name celebrating mutual care, cooperation, and community.”/mah-see-nts eh-DAH-neh/Masixoleboy or girl“Let us forgive.”/mah-see-KSOH-leh/Mateyuboy“Gift of God; gift of Yahweh.”/mah-TEH-yoo/Mavusoboy“One who awakens or revives; renewal/restoration.”/mah-VOO-soh/Mawandeboy or girl“A hopeful blessing that the family, love and prosperity will continue to grow.”/mah-WAHN-deh/Mawethuboy or girl“Ours; our one.”/mah-WEH-too/Mawongaboy“Praises; honours.”/mah-WONG-ah/Mbalenhlegirl“Beautiful flower.”/m-bah-lehn-HLEH/Mbaligirl“A flower; a beautiful blossom”/M-BAH-lee/Mbekezeliboy“Patient one; one who perseveres.”/mbeh-keh-ZEH-lee/Mbuleloboy“A child who brings deep gratitude and honor”/m-boo-LEH-loh/Mcebisiboy“A wise adviser whose counsel is valued”/m-cheh-BEE-see/Mfundisiboy“A respected title-name meaning a teacher, pastor, or spiritual guide”/m-foon-DEE-see/Mhalaboy“A traditional Xhosa name carried through generations — its exact literal meaning isn't recorded, which is part of its story”/MHAH-lah/Mhlontloboy“A historic Xhosa personal name carried by a respected traditional leader”/m-HLON-tloh/Mihlaligirl“Joys; one who brings happiness”/mee-HLAH-lee/Mihleboy or girl“Beautiful; lovely.”/MEE-hleh/Mikayeliboy“Who is like God?”/mee-kah-YEH-lee/Mkhululiboy“A deliverer and one who brings freedom”/m-khoo-LOO-lee/Mkhuseliboy“A protector and defender”/m-khoo-SEH-lee/Mlanjeniboy“A traditional Xhosa name carried through generations — its exact literal meaning isn't recorded, which is part of its story”/m-lahn-YEH-nee/Mlungisiboy“One who puts things right; a fixer or restorer.”/mloo-NGEE-see/Mncedisiboy“A helpful, caring and generous person”/m-ncheh-DEE-see/Mpenduloboy“Answer; response.”/姆-PEHN-doo-loh/Mphumeleloboy“Success; a child destined to do well”/m-poo-meh-LEH-loh/Mpumeleloboy“Success and achievement”/m-poo-meh-LOH/Msindisiboy“Saviour and deliverer”/msee-NDEE-see/Msiziboy“Helper and supporter; one who brings assistance to others”/m-SEE-zee/Mthandazoboy“Prayer.”/m-tahn-DAH-zoh/Mthandeniboy“Beloved one; loved one.”/m-tahn-DEH-nee/Mthethoboy“Law; rule; order.”/m-THEH-toh/Mthobeliboy“Obedient and respectful”/m-toh-BEH-lee/Mthobisiboy“One who humbles; one who causes humility.”/m-toh-BEE-see/Mthokozisiboy“One who brings happiness or joy.”/m-toh-koh-ZEE-see/Mthunyelwaboy“One who has been sent; sent one.”/m-thoon-YEH-lwah/Mthunywaboy“Messenger, one who brings news or a message”/m-thoon-YWA/Mthunziboy“A place of shelter, rest, and protection”/MTOON-zee/Mthuthuzeliboy“One who brings comfort”/m-too-too-ZEH-lee/Mvelisoboy“Product; production; yield.”/mveh-LEE-soh/Mvulaboy“Life-giving rain and blessing”/MVOO-lah/Mxolisiboy“Peacemaker and forgiver”/m-khoh-LEE-see/Mziboy“Home; homestead; household.”/m-ZEE/Mzikayiseboy“The home of his father”/m-zee-kah-YEE-seh/Mzimkhuluboy“Great or large homestead.”/mzee-MKHOO-loo/Mziwakheboy“His own home/homestead.”/mzee-WAH-kheh/Mziwonkeboy“The whole homestead/household.”/m-zee-WON-keh/Mziwoxoloboy“Home of peace—a peaceful and welcoming presence”/m-zee-woh-KHOH-loh/Mziyandaboy“The homestead/household is growing or expanding.”/m-zee-YAHN-dah/Mzukisiboy“One who glorifies, praises, or honours.”/m-zoo-KEE-see/Mzwandileboy“The family and homestead have grown”/m-zwan-DEE-leh/
N
Namhlaboy or girl“Today.”/NAHM-hlah/Nandigirl“Sweet one; pleasant one.”/NAHN-dee/Nandiphagirl“A child who gives the family great happiness”/nan-DEE-pah/Nataniyeliboy“God has given; gift of God.”/nah-tah-nee-YEH-lee/Ncebaboy“Mercy; compassion.”/NKEH-bah/Ncedileboy or girl“The one who has helped us”/n-tseh-DEE-leh/Ncedisaboy or girl“Help; assistance; one who helps.”/nkeh-DEE-sah/Ncedoboy“Help; assistance.”/n-KEH-doh/Ndlambeboy“Historical personal name of Ndlambe, a prominent Rharhabe Xhosa chief.”/ndlahm-BEH/Ngangelizweboy“Historical Xhosa royal personal name, borne by a member of the Gcaleka royal house.”/n-gahn-geh-LEEZ-weh/Ngqikaboy“Historical personal name of Ngqika, a major Rharhabe Xhosa chief.”/n-GHEE-kah/Ngubengcukaboy“Historical personal name of Ngubengcuka, a Gcaleka Xhosa paramount chief.”/ngoo-ben-GOO-kah/Nkosanaboy“Prince; a child born with royal dignity”/n-koh-SAH-na/Nkosazanagirl“Princess and a woman of royal bearing”/n-koh-sah-ZAH-na/Nkosikhonaboy“The Lord is present”/nko-see-KHOH-nah/Nkosinathiboy“The Lord is with us”/nko-see-NAH-tee/Nkululekoboy“Freedom; liberation.”/nkoo-loo-LEH-koh/Nobandilegirl“She has increased; growth or increase.”/noh-bahn-DEE-leh/Nobandlagirl“Mother of the community/people; mother of the assembly.”/noh-BAHN-dlah/Nobantugirl“Mother of the people”/noh-BAHN-too/Nobanzigirl“Mother of broadness, expansiveness, or abundance.”/noh-BAHN-zee/Nobesuthugirl“Mother of the Sotho; associated with Basotho/Sotho identity.”/noh-beh-SOO-too/Nobomigirl“Life and renewed hope for the family”/noh-BOH-mee/Nobuhlegirl“A daughter associated with beauty and loveliness”/noh-BOO-hleh/Nobukhosigirl“Mother of royalty; mother of kingship.”/noh-boo-KHOH-see/Nobulumkogirl“Mother of wisdom; wisdom and insight.”/noh-boo-LOOM-koh/Nobuntugirl“A woman of dignity, kindness, and noble character”/noh-BOON-too/Nofezilegirl“She has accomplished; she has fulfilled.”/noh-feh-ZEE-leh/Nofikilegirl“She has arrived.”/noh-fee-KEE-leh/Nofotogirl“Mother of Foto”/noh-FOH-toh/Nofundilegirl“She has learned; she is educated.”/noh-foon-DEE-leh/Nokhanyagirl“Mother of light.”/no-KHAHN-yah/Nokhwezigirl“Mother of the morning star.”/no-KHWEH-zee/Nokubongagirl“The mother of thanksgiving; a life received with gratitude”/noh-koo-BOHN-gah/Nokulungagirl“Mother of goodness; goodness and virtue.”/noh-koo-LOON-gah/Nokuthulagirl“Mother of peace.”/noh-koo-TOO-lah/Nokuzolagirl“A peaceful presence in the home and family”/noh-koo-ZOH-lah/Nokwandagirl“The mother of growth and increase”/noh-KWAHN-dah/Nokwazigirl“Mother of knowledge.”/no-KWAH-zee/Nolithagirl“Mother of light”/noh-LEE-tah/Noloyisogirl“A life marked by victory”/noh-loh-YEE-soh/Nolufefegirl“Mother of grace”/noh-loo-FEH-feh/Noluntugirl“Mother of the community; mother of humanity/people”/noh-LOON-too/Nolusaphogirl“Mother of the family”/noh-loo-SAH-poh/Nolusindisogirl“Mother of salvation”/noh-loo-seen-DEE-soh/Noluthandogirl“A beloved daughter and a source of love”/noh-loo-TAHN-doh/Noluvuyogirl“A daughter who fills the family with joy”/noh-loo-VOO-yoh/Nolwandlegirl“Mother of the sea”/noh-LWAHN-dleh/Nolwazigirl“A woman of knowledge; one who has wisdom”/noh-LWAH-zee/Nomakhayagirl“Mother of the home; mother of homes/homesteads”/noh-mah-KHAH-yah/Nomakhosigirl“Mother of chiefs/kings”/noh-mah-KHOH-see/Nomakhwezigirl“Mother of the stars”/noh-mah-KWEH-zee/Nomalangagirl“Mother of the sun; mother of the day”/noh-mah-LAHN-gah/Nomalizogirl“Mother of completion; one who brings matters to fulfilment”/noh-mah-LEE-zoh/Nomandlagirl“A daughter of strength, power, and authority”/noh-MAHN-dlah/Nomathamsanqagirl“Mother of good fortune and blessings”/noh-mah-tahm-SAHN-kah/Nomavuyogirl“Mother of joy; one who brings happiness”/noh-mah-VOO-yoh/Nomawethugirl“Our mother”/noh-mah-WEH-too/Nombekogirl“Mother of respect”/noh-MBEH-koh/Nombulelogirl“A woman of gratitude and thanksgiving”/nom-boo-LEH-loh/Nomfanelegirl“Mother of what is fitting and right”/nom-fah-NEH-leh/Nomfanelogirl“Mother of responsibility, duty, or obligation”/nom-fah-NEH-loh/Nomfundogirl“Mother of education/learning”/noh-m-FOON-doh/Nomhlegirl“Mother of beauty”/NOHM-hleh/Nomondegirl“Patient, calm and gentle”/noh-MON-deh/Nompumelelogirl“A daughter who comes with success and achievement”/noh-mpoo-meh-LEH-loh/Nomsagirl“Kind-hearted, gentle and caring”/NOM-sah/Nomthandazogirl“Mother of prayer”/noh-mtahn-DAH-zoh/Nomusagirl“A gracious, kind-hearted woman”/noh-MOO-sah/Nomvelisogirl“Mother of production; mother of productivity”/noh-mveh-LEE-soh/Nomvulagirl“Rain arriving as a welcome blessing”/noh-MVOO-lah/Nomvuyogirl“Mother of joy; a daughter who brings happiness to her family”/nom-VOO-yoh/Nomzamogirl“Mother of effort/striving”/noh-MZAH-moh/Noncebagirl“Mother of mercy/compassion”/non-CHEH-bah/Noncedogirl“A source of help and strength within the family”/non-CHEH-doh/Nondumisogirl“Mother of praise”/non-doo-MEE-soh/Nondwegirl“Mother of the night”/non-DWEH/Nongqawusegirl“A distinguished traditional Xhosa name borne by the historical prophetess Nongqawuse”/non-gah-WOO-seh/Nonkqubelagirl“A woman of progress and forward movement”/non-KKOO-beh-lah/Nonkululekogirl“A woman associated with freedom and liberation”/non-koo-loo-LEH-koh/Nontandogirl“A beloved child who embodies love”/nohn-TAHN-doh/Nontethagirl“One who speaks; associated with speech or speaking.”/non-TEH-tah/Nontlegirl“Mother of beauty; beautiful one”/NOHNT-leh/Nontobekogirl“A child of humility and gentleness”/nohn-toh-BEH-koh/Nontokozogirl“A joyful one”/nohn-toh-KOH-zoh/Nontombigirl“Girl; daughter”/non-TOHM-bee/Nontsikelelogirl“A blessing welcomed into the family”/non-tsee-keh-LEH-loh/Nontsizigirl“Compassion, pity, or mercy.”/non-TSEE-tsee/Nontuthuzelogirl“A source of comfort and reassurance”/nohn-too-too-ZEH-loh/Nonzwakazigirl“A beautiful and radiant woman”/non-zwah-KAH-zee/Nopasikagirl“An Easter child, associated with renewal and new life”/noh-pa-SEE-kah/Nophumelelegirl“She has succeeded; successful.”/noh-poo-meh-LEH-leh/Nosicelogirl“One associated with a request or earnest appeal”/noh-see-SEH-loh/Nosindisogirl“Mother of salvation and deliverance”/noh-sin-DEE-soh/Nosiphogirl“A precious gift”/noh-SEE-poh/Nosisagirl“Kindness, compassion, mercy, or help.”/noh-SEE-sah/Nosisekogirl“A strong foundation for the family”/noh-see-SEH-koh/Nosiviwegirl“We have been heard; heard by us/us being heard.”/noh-see-VEE-weh/Nosizwegirl“Nation; mother of the nation/community.”/noh-SEE-zweh/Nothandogirl“A loving and dearly cherished child”/noh-TAHN-doh/Nothembagirl“Mother of hope”/noh-THEHM-bah/Nothembugirl“Associated with the Thembu people/clan; literally “mother of Thembu.””/noh-THEHM-boo/Noxologirl“A peaceful and gentle presence”/noh-KOH-loh/Noyisilegirl“She has conquered; a triumphant woman”/noh-yee-SEE-leh/Noyologirl“Joyful; one who brings happiness”/noh-YOH-loh/Nozukogirl“A child surrounded by honour and glory”/noh-ZOO-koh/Nqababoy“Fortress; stronghold.”/NQAH-bah/Nqabayomziboy“Stronghold of the homestead—a child who gives the family strength”/n-kah-bah-yom-ZEE/Nqabisilegirl“She is protected; sheltered or kept safe.”/nas-click-ah-bee-SEE-leh/Nqobileboy or girl“Victorious; one who has overcome”/n-CLICK-oh-BEE-leh/Nqobizithaboy“Conqueror of enemies”/n-CLICK-oh-bee-ZEE-tha/Ntababoy“Strength, steadiness, and enduring presence”/NTAH-bah/Ntandoboy or girl“Love; will, desire, or intention.”/ntahn-DOH/Ntombenhlegirl“Beautiful girl; a daughter whose beauty is celebrated”/ntom-BEH-nhleh/Ntombifuthigirl“Girl again; another daughter.”/ntoh-mbee-FOO-tee/Ntombikayisegirl“A cherished daughter especially dear to her father”/ntoh-mbee-kah-YEE-seh/Ntombikhayagirl“The daughter of the home”/ntohm-bee-KHAH-yah/Ntombizodwagirl“The only girl/daughter.”/ntoh-mbee-ZOHD-wah/Ntombizukogirl“Girl of glory; a daughter who brings honour and brightness”/ntom-bee-ZOO-koh/Ntsikaboy“A strong foundation or pillar of the family”/N-TSEE-kah/Ntsikanaboy“Little pillar; also the name of the historic Xhosa prophet Ntsikana kaGabha.”/ntsee-KAH-nah/Ntsikeleloboy or girl“A child welcomed as a blessing and a sign of grace.”/ntsee-keh-LEH-loh/Nwabisagirl“She brings happiness and brightens people's lives”/nwah-BEE-sah/Nxeleboy“A distinctive traditional name, historically associated with the prophet Nxele”/click-NKSEH-leh/Nyamekagirl“May she be trustworthy and worthy of confidence”/nyah-MEH-kah/Nyamekoboy“Careful, thoughtful attention”/nyah-MEH-koh/Nyanisoboy or girl“Truth and sincerity”/nyah-NEE-soh/
O
P
Petrosboy“A steadfast rock of faith”/PEH-tros/Phakamaboy“Rise up and reach higher”/pah-KAH-mah/Phakamileboy or girl“Risen and lifted up; destined to rise”/pah-kah-MEE-leh/Phakamisagirl“Lift up or raise high”/pah-kah-MEE-sah/Philaboy or girl“May this child live fully, healthily and joyfully”/PEE-lah/Phindilegirl“A name associated with a child who arrives after a long absence, disappointment or the loss of an earlier child.”/pin-DEE-leh/Phumelelaboy or girl“May you succeed and prosper”/poo-meh-LEH-lah/Phumlagirl“Rest and peace”/POOM-lah/Phumlaniboy“Rest; be at peace.”/poom-LAH-nee/Phumzilegirl“She has rested; peace has come”/poom-ZEE-leh/
Q
Qamisagirl“Cause to appear, emerge, or become evident; bring out.”/kah-MEE-sah/Qaqambagirl“Shine brightly; bring light and promise”/kah-KAHM-bah/Qaqambileboy or girl“The one who has shone brightly”/kah-KAHM-bee-leh/Qhamaboy or girl“Be connected or closely related; a connection/association.”/KHAH-mah/Qhamisagirl“Cause people or things to connect; bring together or make closely associated.”/kah-MEE-sah/Qhaweboy“A brave hero and champion”/KHAH-weh/Qhayiyaboy“Pride; boastfulness or glory.”/click-kha-YEE-yah/Qinisaniboy“Strengthen; be strong (a plural/formal imperative).”/kee-nee-SAH-nee/Qiniselaboy“Be steadfast; strengthen for/on behalf of.”/kee-nee-SEH-lah/Qinisileboy or girl“Steadfast and persevering”/CLICK-ee-NEE-see-leh/Qondaboy or girl“One with understanding and integrity”/KOHN-dah (with a click)/Qondileboy“One who understands; understood.”/kohn-DEE-leh/Qondisaboy“Guide; direct.”/kohn-DEE-sah/Qondisaniboy“Guide/direct (addressed to more than one person or respectfully).”/kohn-dee-SAH-nee/Qondiswagirl“One who has been guided.”/kohnd-EE-swah/Quntaboy“A traditional Xhosa name carried through generations — its exact literal meaning isn't recorded, which is part of its story”/click-KOON-tah/
R
S
Sakhileboy or girl“We have built our future through strength and perseverance”/sah-KHEE-leh/Sakhumziboy“One who builds and strengthens the home”/sah-khoo-MZEE/Samkeloboy or girl“A child whose birth is celebrated with acceptance, welcome and gratitude.”/sam-KEH-loh/Samuweliboy“God has heard.”/sah-moo-WEH-lee/Sandileboy or girl“We have increased and prospered”/sahn-DEE-leh/Saneleboy or girl“Our family is complete”/sah-NEH-leh/Sanelisiwegirl“We have been satisfied and blessed”/sah-neh-lee-SEE-weh/Sarhiliboy“A distinguished historical name rooted in Xhosa royal heritage”/sah-RHEE-lee/Sebenzilegirl“Has worked; worked.”/seh-ben-ZEE-leh/Sibabalweboy or girl“We are blessed by this child”/see-bah-BAHL-weh/Sibongilegirl“We are grateful”/see-bong-GEE-leh/Sibuleleboy or girl“We are grateful; we give thanks.”/see-boo-LEH-leh/Sibusisoboy“A blessing”/see-boo-SEE-soh/Sidumoboy“Praise; renown; fame.”/see-DOO-moh/Simamkeleboy or girl“A child joyfully received and embraced by the family.”/see-mah-MAH-keh-leh/Simphiweboy or girl“A warmly cherished child regarded as a gift to the family.”/see-MPEE-weh/Sindiswagirl“She has been saved or delivered”/sin-DEE-swah/Sinethembaboy or girl“We have hope”/see-neh-TEM-bah/Sinovuyoboy or girl“We have joy because of this child”/see-noh-VOO-yoh/Siphamandlaboy“Give us strength”/see-pah-MAHN-dlah/Siphesihleboy or girl“A beautiful gift”/see-peh-SEE-hleh/Siphoboy“A gift from God”/SEE-poh/Siphokaziboy or girl“A great and precious gift”/see-poh-KAH-zee/Siphumeleleboy or girl“We have overcome and succeeded”/see-poo-meh-LEH-leh/Sisekoboy“Foundation.”/see-SEH-koh/Sisiphoboy or girl“Our gift from God”/see-SEE-poh/Sisonkeboy or girl“Togetherness, family unity and belonging”/see-SON-keh/Sithembileboy or girl“We have faith and trust”/see-tem-BEE-leh/Sithembisoboy“Our promise”/see-tem-BEE-soh/Siveboy or girl“We hear; we have heard, depending on context.”/SEE-veh/Sivileboy“We have heard.”/see-VEE-leh/Sivuyileboy or girl“We are joyful because this child is here”/see-voo-YEE-leh/Siyabongaboy“We give thanks”/see-yah-BONG-ah/Siyabulelaboy or girl“We give thanks”/see-yah-boo-LEH-lah/Siyakhulaboy or girl“We are growing.”/see-yah-KHOO-lah/Siyamthandaboy or girl“We love this child deeply—a joyful declaration of family affection”/see-yah-m-TAHN-dah/Siyandaboy or girl“The family is growing, and the child is welcomed as an additional blessing.”/see-YAHN-dah/Siyasangaboy or girl“We embrace.”/see-yah-SAHN-gah/Siyavuyaboy or girl“We are happy and celebrating”/see-yah-VOO-yah/Siyazamaboy or girl“We are trying/striving.”/see-yah-ZAH-mah/Siyoloboy“We are happy/joyful.”/see-YOH-loh/Sizakelegirl“We have built/established ourselves.”/see-zah-KEH-leh/Sizweboy or girl“A child who belongs to and strengthens the nation”/SEE-zweh/Solomoniboy“Peaceful; the isiXhosa/Nguni form of Solomon.”/soh-loh-MOH-nee/Sondisaboy“One who brings people closer together”/sohn-DEE-sah/Sonwabileboy or girl“We are happy/joyful.”/sohn-wah-BEE-leh/
T
Thamsanqaboy“Good fortune and a prosperous future”/tahm-SAHN-kah/Thandazilegirl“Has prayed; prayed.”/than-da-ZEE-leh/Thandekagirl“Lovable, dear and treasured”/tahn-DEH-kah/Thandileboy or girl“One who has been loved”/tahn-DEE-leh/Thandoboy or girl“Love and tenderness”/TAHN-doh/Thandolwethuboy or girl“Our shared love and precious bond”/tahn-doh-LWEH-too/Thanduxoloboy“A life filled with love and peace”/tahn-doo-KOH-loh/Thembaboy“Hope and trust in God”/TEM-bah/Thembakazigirl“A feminine name built on themba, meaning hope or trust.”/tem-bah-KAH-zee/Thembekagirl“Faithful and steadfast”/tem-BEH-kah/Thembekileboy or girl“Faithful and trustworthy”/tem-beh-KEE-leh/Thembelaniboy“Have faith and trust”/tem-beh-LAH-nee/Thembinkosiboy“Hope in the Lord”/tehm-been-KOH-see/Thembisagirl“Promise; to promise, or make hopeful.”/tehm-BEE-sah/Thobekagirl“Humble and respectful”/toh-BEH-kah/Thobekileboy or girl“Humble, obedient, and respectful”/toh-beh-KEE-leh/Thobileboy or girl“Humble; has become humble/submissive.”/tho-BEE-leh/Thokozilegirl“Has rejoiced; is joyful.”/tho-ko-ZEE-leh/Thozamagirl“Be humble/gentle; humility.”/toh-ZAH-mah/Thozamileboy or girl“Associated with being humble, gentle, or calm.”/toh-zah-MEE-leh/Thulaniboy or girl“Be quiet; be calm.”/too-LAH-nee/Thulilegirl“Quiet; calm.”/too-LEE-leh/Thulisilegirl“Has become quiet/calm.”/too-lee-SEE-leh/Thuliswagirl“Has been quietened, calmed, or comforted.”/too-lee-SWAH/Timotiboy“Honouring God; God-honoured.”/tee-MOH-tee/Tomasiboy“Twin.”/toh-MAH-see/Tshaweboy“A traditional royal name in Xhosa history”/TSHAH-weh/Tshiwoboy“A traditional Xhosa name carried through generations — its exact literal meaning isn't recorded, which is part of its story”/TSHEE-woh/Tyaliboy“A traditional Xhosa name carried through generations — its exact literal meaning isn't recorded, which is part of its story”/TYAH-lee/
U
V
Vatiswagirl“Meaning not reliably established; do not publish the supplied welcome-and-remembrance gloss.”/vah-tee-SWAH/Vukileboy or girl“One who rises again and keeps moving forward”/voo-KEE-leh/Vulindlelaboy“Open the way/path; path-opener.”/voo-lee-NDEH-lah/Vumilegirl“Has agreed; has accepted or consented.”/voo-MEE-leh/Vusileboy“Has awakened; has risen.”/voo-SEE-leh/Vusindisoboy“Salvation; deliverance.”/voo-seen-DEE-soh/Vusizweboy“Awaken or revive the nation.”/voo-SEE-zweh/Vusumusaboy“Awaken kindness or mercy.”/voo-soo-MOO-sah/Vusumziboy“A son whose arrival renews the household after hardship or loss.”/voo-SOOM-zee/Vuyaniboy“Rejoice.”/voo-YAH-nee/Vuyelwagirl“One over whom people rejoice”/voo-YEHL-wah/Vuyisaboy“One who brings happiness to others”/voo-YEE-sah/Vuyisaniboy“Make happy; bring joy.”/voo-yee-SAH-nee/Vuyisekagirl“Become happy; be delighted.”/voo-yee-SEH-kah/Vuyisileboy or girl“This child has brought us joy”/voo-yee-SEE-leh/Vuyiswagirl“A child over whom the family rejoices”/voo-YEES-wah/Vuyoboy or girl“Joy; a child who brings happiness”/VOO-yoh/Vuyokazigirl“A greatly joyful child; precious happiness”/voo-yoh-KAH-zee/Vuyolwethuboy or girl“Our joy; the happiness belonging to all of us”/voo-yoh-LWEH-too/
W
X
Xhoxhoboy“Traditional Xhosa male personal name; no dependable literal gloss established.”/KHOH-khoh/Xolaniboy“May he live in peace and bring peace”/click-oh-LAH-nee/Xolelaboy“Forgive.”/kho-LEH-lah/Xolileboy or girl“At peace and reconciled”/KHOH-lee-leh (with a click)/Xolilizweboy“Peace of the nation.”/khoh-lee-LEEZ-weh/Xolisaboy or girl“To make peace or reconcile”/click-oh-LEE-sah/Xolisileboy or girl“Peaceful and reconciled”/click-oh-LEE-seh-leh/
Y
Yakobiboy“Jacob; from Hebrew, traditionally “supplanter” or “one who follows.””/yah-KOH-bee/Yamkelaboy or girl“Welcome and receive this child with love”/yahm-KEH-lah/Yandisaboy or girl“One who increases and makes things grow”/yahn-DEE-sah/Yanelilegirl“Is satisfied; is content; is sufficient.”/yah-neh-LEE-leh/Yangaboy“Sun; day.”/YAHN-gah/Yeremiyaboy“Jeremiah; from Hebrew, commonly interpreted as “Yahweh exalts” or “Yahweh appoints.””/yeh-reh-MEE-yah/Yibanathiboy or girl“Be with us, as in a prayer of faith”/yee-bah-NAH-tee/Yohaneboy“John; from Hebrew, “God is gracious.””/yoh-HAH-neh/Yolisagirl“She brings happiness to those around her”/yoh-LEE-sah/Yoliswagirl“A child who brings happiness and delight”/yoh-LEES-wah/Yonwababoy or girl“Be happy; a blessing of happiness for the family”/yon-WAH-bah/Yosefuboy“Joseph; from Hebrew, “May God add” or “God will increase.””/yoh-SEH-foo/Yoshuwaboy“Joshua; from Hebrew, “Yahweh is salvation.””/yoh-SHOO-wah/
Z
Zamileboy“Has tried; has attempted.”/za-MEE-leh/Zandilegirl“The family has increased with the birth of this much-welcomed child.”/zan-DEE-leh/Zandiswagirl“A daughter whose arrival has enlarged the family’s happiness and blessings.”/zan-DWAH-swah/Zanelegirl“They are enough; they are sufficient.”/zah-NEH-leh/Zimasagirl“To stand firm; one who has stood firm.”/zee-MAH-sah/Zimilegirl“She has stood firm / has taken a stand.”/zee-MEE-leh/Zimiseleboy or girl“Determined and resolute”/zee-mee-SEH-leh/Zimkhithagirl“Adorn yourselves; adorned/beautiful.”/zeem-KHEE-tah/Zinathigirl“They are with us.”/zee-NAH-tee/Zinikelegirl“Dedicated; devoted.”/zee-nee-KEH-leh/Zintleboy or girl“Beautiful things and a beautiful life”/ZIN-tleh/Zithuleleboy“Be quiet and calm; a peaceful, composed child”/zee-too-LEH-leh/Ziziphogirl“Gifts.”/zee-ZEE-poh/Zodwagirl“The only one; alone.”/ZOD-wah/Zolaboy or girl“Calm-hearted, peaceful and gentle in spirit”/ZOH-lah/Zolekagirl“Be calm; be at peace; settle down.”/zoh-LEH-kah/Zolileboy or girl“Calm-hearted and gentle”/zoh-LEE-leh/Zondwaboy“Be hated; hated or despised.”/ZOND-wah/Zukileboy“One who has prospered and come into blessing.”/zoo-KEE-leh/Zukisaboy“To glorify; to honour or exalt.”/zoo-KEE-sah/Zukiswagirl“She has been glorified / honoured.”/zoo-KEE-swah/Zukoboy“Glory and honor”/ZOO-koh/Zwelakheboy or girl“Belonging to one's country”/zweh-LAH-kheh/Zwelibanziboy or girl“A broad and generous world”/zweh-lee-BAHN-zee/Zwelidumileboy“The nation/world is famous.”/zweh-lee-doo-MEE-leh/Zwelinzimaboy“The nation/world is difficult or hard.”/zweh-lin-ZEE-mah/Zwelonkeboy“The whole nation/world.”/zweh-LON-keh/