Zulu names.
499 verified names from South Africa — each with its meaning, its sound, and its traditional spelling.
A
Abongileboy or girl“They have given thanks; they have praised.”/ah-bon-GEE-leh/Akhonaboy or girl“There is; a warm affirmation of presence and belonging”/ah-KHOH-nah/Amahlegirl“Beautiful ones”/ah-MAH-hleh/Amandawethuboy or girl“Our strength and power”/ah-mahn-dah-WEH-too/Amandlaboy or girl“Strength, power, and inner resilience”/ah-MAN-dlah/Andileboy or girl“They have grown or increased”/ahn-DEE-leh/Aneleboy or girl“They are enough; there is contentment”/ah-NEH-leh/Aphiweboy or girl“They have been given; by extension, “a gift.””/ah-PEE-weh/Asandaboy or girl“We are increasing/growing; increase.”/ah-SAHN-dah/Avuyileboy or girl“They are joyful”/ah-voo-YEE-leh/Ayandaboy or girl“They are growing and flourishing”/ah-YAHN-dah/
B
Bafanaboy“Boys.”/bah-FAH-nah/Bambananiboy or girl“Strength through unity, solidarity, and mutual support”/bam-bah-NAH-nee/Bandileboy“They have increased and grown”/bahn-DEE-leh/Baneleboy or girl“They are enough; they bring a sense of fulfillment”/bah-NEH-leh/Bawinilegirl“They have won; a joyful name celebrating victory”/bah-wee-NEE-leh/Bekezelaboy or girl“Be patient and endure; better days will come”/beh-keh-ZEH-lah/Bhambathaboy“A historic Zulu personal name, associated with courage and resistance”/bham-BAH-tah/Bhekaboy“Look; watch.”/BEH-kah/Bhekaniboy“Look, you all; watch, you all.”/beh-KAH-nee/Bhekiboy“Watch; look.”/BEH-kee/Bhekimpiloboy“Look after life; watch over life.”/beh-kee-MPEE-loh/Bhekinkosiboy“Look to the Lord/King.”/beh-kee-NKOH-see/Bhekisisaboy“Look carefully; examine closely.”/beh-kee-SEE-sah/Bhekithembaboy“Look to hope; look at hope.”/beh-kee-THEM-bah/Bhekizizweboy“Care for the nations”/beh-kee-ZEE-zweh/Bhekokwakheboy“One who looks after and protects his own”/beh-koh-KWAH-kheh/Bhekumuziboy“Care for and protect the homestead”/beh-kah-MOO-zee/Bongaboy“Give thanks; praise”/BONG-ah/Bonganiboy“Be thankful; give thanks”/bon-GAH-nee/Bonginkosiboy“Give thanks to the Lord”/bon-gin-KOH-see/Bongiwegirl“She has been thanked; one for whom thanks are given”/bon-GEE-weh/Bongumusaboy“Give thanks for grace/mercy; praise grace.”/bong-oo-MOO-sah/Buhleboy or girl“Beauty; goodness and loveliness”/BOO-hleh/Bulelaniboy or girl“Give thanks and gratitude”/boo-leh-LAH-nee/Buselaphigirl“Where did you come from?”/boo-seh-LAH-pee/Busigirl“Blessed; one who has been blessed.”/BOO-see/Busisaboy or girl“To bless; a blessing”/boo-SEE-sah/Busisiwegirl“Blessed; she has been blessed”/boo-see-SI-weh/Buthoboy“Regiment; army; age-regiment.”/BOO-taw/Buyelaphiboy“Where are you returning from?”/boo-yeh-LAH-pee/Buyisileboy or girl“A child who has brought someone or something back to the family”/boo-yee-SEE-leh/Buyisiwegirl“The one who has been brought back, a cherished return to the family”/boo-yee-SEE-weh/
C
Cebilegirl“Wealthy; rich.”/seh-BEE-leh/Cebisileboy or girl“One who has advised or helped”/seh-bee-SEE-leh/Celaniboy“Ask; make a respectful request”/cheh-LAH-nee/Celisiwegirl“She has been asked for; she was requested.”/seh-lee-SEE-weh/Celumusaboy“Ask for mercy/grace.”/seh-loo-MOO-sah/Cetshwayoboy“A historic royal name borne by King Cetshwayo of the Zulu kingdom”/ket-SHWAH-yoh/Chumaboy or girl“Wealth and prosperity; a hopeful wish for abundance”/CHOO-mah/
D
Dabulamanziboy“One who cuts through water; a bold and memorable historical Zulu name”/dah-boo-lah-MAHN-zee/Deliwegirl“She/he has comforted; comforter.”/deh-LEE-weh/Dinganeboy“A historic royal name borne by a Zulu king”/din-GAH-neh/Dingiswayoboy“A sought-after or much-needed person”/din-gee-SWAH-yoh/Dinuzuluboy“A historic royal name borne by a Zulu king and symbolizing royal heritage”/dee-noo-ZOO-loo/Duduzilegirl“One who brings comfort and reassurance”/doo-doo-ZEE-leh/Dumisaniboy“Honor and praise; may you be praised”/doo-mee-SAH-nee/Dumisilegirl“She has brought honor and praise”/doo-mee-SEE-leh/
E
F
Fanaboy“Young boy.”/FAH-nah/Faneleboy or girl“Suitable, fitting, or appropriate.”/fah-NEH-leh/Fanyanaboy“Little boy; small boy.”/fah-NYAH-nah/Fezileboy or girl“Has accomplished; has achieved; has been fulfilled.”/feh-ZEE-leh/Fikelileboy or girl“Has arrived.”/fee-kee-LEE-leh/Fikilegirl“She has arrived; a welcomed new arrival”/fee-KEE-leh/Fikiswaboy or girl“Has been caused or brought to arrive.”/fee-KEE-swah/Fundileboy or girl“Educated; learned.”/foon-DEE-leh/Fundiswagirl“Has been educated.”/foon-DEE-swah/Funekagirl“Needed; wanted.”/foo-NEH-kah/
G
Gabisilegirl“She has brought happiness and joy”/gah-bee-SEE-leh/Gabriellagirl“God is my strength.”/gay-bree-EL-a/Gcinilegirl“Has kept; has preserved.”/gchee-NEE-leh/Gcinisilegirl“Has kept; has preserved.”/gkee-nee-SEE-leh/Gcinumuziboy“Preserve/keep the homestead or household.”/gkee-noo-MOO-zee/Godideboy“A traditional Zulu name carried through generations — its exact literal meaning isn't recorded, which is part of its story”/go-DEE-deh/Gracegirl“Grace, kindness, and God's generous favour”/GRAYS/Guguboy or girl“A precious treasure”/GOO-goo/
H
Hlalisilegirl“Has settled; has caused settling.”/hla-lee-SEE-leh/Hlangananiboy or girl“Come together; unite.”/hlahn-gah-NAH-nee/Hlengiwegirl“Redeemed; saved”/hlen-GEE-weh/Hleziphigirl“Where are the beautiful ones/things?”/hleh-ZEE-pee/Hloniphilegirl“A respected and honorable woman”/hlaw-nee-PEE-leh/Hloniphoboy or girl“Honor, respect, and dignity”/hlaw-NEE-poh/Hopegirl“A hopeful blessing and confident expectation”/HOHP/
I
Impumeleloboy“Success and the joy of achieving one’s goals”/im-poo-meh-LEH-loh/Inhlanhlaboy or girl“Good luck and fortune”/in-HLAHN-hlah/Isaiahboy“The Lord is salvation”/eye-ZAY-ah/Isibindiboy or girl“Courage, bravery, and a fearless spirit”/ee-see-BEEN-dee/Israelboy“One who strives with God; traditionally associated with perseverance and blessing”/IZ-ray-el/Ithembaboy or girl“Hope for good things to come”/ee-TEM-bah/
J
Jabulaniboy“Rejoice and be happy; a child who brings celebration”/jah-boo-LAH-nee/Jabulilegirl“She has brought joy and happiness”/jah-boo-LEE-leh/Jamaboy“Historical name of Jama kaNdaba, an early Zulu king.”/JAH-mah/Johannesboy“The Lord is gracious”/yo-HAH-nes/Jonahboy“A dove; a gentle name symbolizing peace and hope”/JOH-nah/
K
Khanyisilegirl“She has brought light”/khahn-yee-SEE-leh/Khayaboy or girl“Home; a child who brings the family together”/KHAH-yah/Khayelihleboy“Beautiful home.”/kha-yeh-LEE-hleh/Khetheloboy“Choice; selection.”/keh-THEH-loh/Khethiwegirl“The chosen one.”/keh-TEE-weh/Khethukuthulaboy“Choose peace.”/kheh-too-koo-TOO-lah/Kholekagirl“Be credible; be believable.”/khoh-LEH-kah/Kholekilegirl“Has become credible; believable.”/khoh-leh-KEE-leh/Kholiwegirl“Has believed; believed.”/khoh-LEE-weh/Khulaniboy or girl“May you grow, thrive, and reach your full potential”/koo-LAH-nee/Khulekaniboy or girl“Pray”/koo-leh-KAH-nee/Khulekilegirl“Has prayed; one who has prayed.”/khoo-LEH-kee-leh/Khululekileboy or girl“Free; liberated.”/khoo-loo-LEH-kee-leh/Khululiwegirl“Freed, released, or liberated.”/khoo-loo-LEE-weh/Khumbulaniboy“Remember us and keep us close in your heart”/khoom-boo-LAH-nee/Khumbulekhayaboy“Remember home.”/khoom-boo-leh-KHAH-yah/Khweziboy or girl“Morning star; a light that guides the way”/KWEH-zee/Kuhleboy or girl“Good, beautiful, or wonderful”/KOOH-leh/Kwandaboy or girl“Growth, increase, or it is increasing.”/KWAHN-dah/Kwaneleboy or girl“It is enough; the family is complete”/kwah-NEH-leh/
L
Langaboy or girl“Sun; warmth, brightness, and life”/LAH-ngah/Langalibaleleboy“The sun is shining.”/lah-ngah-lee-bah-LEH-leh/Libusisoboy or girl“Blessing.”/lee-boo-SEE-soh/Lihleboy or girl“Beautiful; lovely”/LEE-hleh/Lindaboy“Wait patiently; also, protect and watch over”/LEEN-dah/Lindaniboy“A hopeful child who waits for good things”/lin-DAH-nee/Lindelaniboy or girl“Wait for us; a child whose arrival was lovingly awaited”/lin-deh-LAH-nee/Lindelwagirl“Awaited, expected, or hoped for.”/lin-DEHL-wah/Lindiwegirl“The long-awaited one, joyfully welcomed home”/lin-DEE-weh/Lindokuhleboy or girl“Expecting something beautiful and good ahead”/lin-doh-KOOH-leh/Lisakhanyaboy or girl“Still shining brightly”/lee-sah-KHAN-yah/Liyandaboy or girl“Growing and flourishing”/lee-YAN-dah/Londekagirl“A child surrounded by safety and protection”/lon-DEH-kah/Londiwegirl“The long-awaited one”/lon-DEE-weh/Londolozaboy or girl“A strong guardian who protects what matters”/lon-doh-LOH-zah/Lulamaboy or girl“Be well; recover; be healed.”/loo-LAH-mah/Lungeloboy or girl“Privilege, rightful place, and what is just”/loon-GEH-loh/Lungileboy or girl“Good, right, and virtuous”/loon-GEE-leh/Lungiswagirl“Prepared, restored, and set right”/loon-GEE-swah/Lusandagirl“New; it is new.”/loo-SUN-dah/Lusizoboy or girl“Help, assistance, or support.”/loo-SEE-zoh/Luthandoboy or girl“Love and affection”/loo-TAHN-doh/Luyandaboy or girl“Growth is increasing”/loo-YAHN-dah/Lwandileboy or girl“The family has grown and flourished”/lwan-DEE-leh/Lwandleboy or girl“Ocean or sea; vastness and strength”/LWAHN-dleh/Lwaziboy or girl“Knowledge and understanding”/LWAH-zee/
M
Mabuthoboy“Regiments, warriors, or fighting units.”/mah-BOO-taw/Magebaboy“A traditional Zulu name carried through generations — its exact literal meaning isn't recorded, which is part of its story”/mah-GEH-bah/Makhanyaboy“One who shines and brings light to others”/mah-KHAHN-yah/Makhosazanagirl“Princesses; a feminine name associated with princesshood.”/mah-khoh-sah-ZAH-nah/Makhosiboy or girl“Chiefs, kings, or rulers.”/mah-KHOH-see/Malandelaboy“Follower; historically, Malandela was an early ancestor in the Zulu royal lineage.”/mah-lahn-DEH-lah/Malusiboy“Shepherd; one who tends or guides.”/mah-LOO-see/Mandisagirl“Sweetness; a sweet one.”/mahn-DEE-sah/Mandlaboy“Strength, power, and inner authority”/MAHN-dlah/Mandlakaziboy or girl“Great strength and power”/man-dlah-KAH-zee/Mandlenkosiboy“Strength that comes from God”/man-dleh-NKOH-see/Mangalisogirl“A miracle and a wonderful surprise”/mahn-gah-LEE-soh/Manqobaboy“Conqueror; one who overcomes.”/mahn-KOH-bah/Maphithaboy“A traditional Zulu name carried through generations — its exact literal meaning isn't recorded, which is part of its story”/mah-PEE-tah/Mariagirl“A traditional Zulu name carried through generations — its exact literal meaning isn't recorded, which is part of its story”/ma-REE-a/Mavumengwanaboy“A traditional Zulu name carried through generations — its exact literal meaning isn't recorded, which is part of its story”/mah-voo-men-GWAH-nah/Mawandeboy or girl“May the family continue to grow and flourish”/mah-WAHN-deh/Mayibongwegirl““May it be praised” or “let it be praised.””/my-ee-BONG-weh/Mbalenhlegirl“Beautiful flower”/m-bah-lehn-HLEH/Mbaligirl“Flower; beauty as it blooms”/M-bah-lee/Mbongeniboy or girl“Give thanks”/m-boh-NGEH-nee/Mbongiseniboy““Praise him.””/m-bong-ih-SEH-nee/Mbusiboy“King; ruler.”/m-BOO-see/Mbusoboy“Rule, leadership, and authority”/MBOO-soh/Mbuyaziboy“A traditional Zulu name carried through generations — its exact literal meaning isn't recorded, which is part of its story”/mboo-YAH-zee/Mbuyiseloboy“Restoration; something precious has been brought back”/mboo-yee-SEH-loh/Mbuyiseniboy“Bring back to us; a name expressing restoration and family reunion”/m-boo-yee-SEH-nee/Mcebisiboy“Adviser; one who gives counsel.”/m-tseh-BEE-see/Mceboboy“Wealth and prosperity”/m-eh-BOH/Mduduziboy“One who comforts and brings reassurance”/mdoo-DOO-zee/Mfanafuthiboy“A child again; another child.”/m-fah-nah-FOO-tee/Mfundisiboy“Teacher; instructor; also minister or preacher in a church context.”/m-foo-NDEE-see/Mfundoboy or girl“Education; learning.”/m-FOON-doh/Mhlanganaboy“A historical Zulu royal name, notably Mhlangana kaSenzangakhona; the root relates to meeting or coming together.”/mhlahn-GAH-nah/Mhlengiboy“Saviour; one who rescues and protects”/m-HLEN-gee/Minenhlegirl“Beautiful day.”/mee-nen-hleh/Mkabayigirl“A historic royal name associated with Princess Mkabayi and strong leadership”/m-kah-BYE/Mkhululiboy“Liberator; one who sets others free”/m-khoo-LOO-lee/Mkhuseliboy“Protector; defender.”/m-khoo-SEH-lee/Mlulekiboy“Counsellor; adviser; guide.”/mloo-LEH-kee/Mlungisiboy“One who puts things right”/m-loon-GEE-see/Mncedisiboy“Helper; a person who supports and cares for others”/mn-cheh-DEE-see/Mnothoboy“Wealth and riches”/m-NOH-toh/Mnqobiboy“Victor; conqueror; one who overcomes.”/m-nkaw-BEE/Mnyamanaboy“The dark one; one associated with darkness.”/mnyah-MAH-nah/Mpandeboy“A historic royal name borne by a Zulu king and remembered for royal lineage”/m-PAHN-deh/Mpenduloboy or girl“Answer or response”/m-pen-DOO-loh/Mpiloboy or girl“Life.”/m-PEE-law/Mpumeleloboy or girl“Success, achievement, and prosperity”/mpoo-meh-LEH-loh/Mshiyeniboy“Leave him; let him be.”/mshih-YEH-nee/Msindisiboy“Saviour; one who brings help and deliverance”/m-see-NDEE-see/Msiziboy“Helper and source of support”/m-SEE-zee/Mthandazoboy“Prayer.”/m-tan-DAH-zoh/Mthandeniboy“Love him dearly”/m-tan-DEH-nee/Mthobisiboy“One who humbles; one who causes humility.”/m-toh-BEE-see/Mthokozisiboy or girl“One who brings joy and thanksgiving”/mt-koh-zee-SEE/Mthunziboy“Shade or shelter; a comforting presence”/m-TOON-zee/Muhleboy or girl“Beautiful”/MOO-hleh/Musaboy“Kindness, grace, and goodness”/MOO-sah/Muziboy or girl“Home or homestead, a warm symbol of belonging”/MOO-zee/Muzikayiseboy“His father's homestead/home.”/moo-zee-kah-YEE-seh/Muziwokholoboy“Home/homestead of faith.”/moo-zee-woh-KHOH-loh/Muziwokuthulaboy“Home/homestead of peace.”/moo-zee-woh-koo-TOO-lah/Mveloboy or girl“Nature; the natural world and the essence of life”/MVEH-loh/Mvikeliboy“A brave protector who stands up for others”/mvee-KEH-lee/Mvulaboy“Rain; a hopeful sign of renewal and abundance”/MVOO-lah/Mvuyaneboy“A traditional Zulu name carried through generations — its exact literal meaning isn't recorded, which is part of its story”/mvoo-YAH-neh/Mvuyisiboy“One who brings happiness and joy”/m-voo-YEE-see/Mxolisiboy“One who brings peace or forgiveness”/m-khoh-LEE-see/Mzilikaziboy“A historic Nguni/Ndebele royal name, commonly glossed as “the great path.””/mzee-lee-KAH-zee/Mziwakheboy“His home or homestead; a child who strengthens the family home”/m-zee-WAH-kheh/Mzwandileboy“The family line has grown”/m-zwan-DEE-leh/
N
Nandigirl“Sweet one; also a celebrated royal name in Zulu history”/NAHN-dee/Nathiboy“With us.”/NAH-tee/Ncamisilegirl“She has made things sweet or pleasant; a name of warmth and delight”/nchah-mee-SEE-leh/Ndababoy“A historic royal name borne by a Zulu king and associated with noble ancestry”/n-DAH-bah/Ndabezithaboy“A royal form of address, roughly “Your Majesty” or “your royal highness.””/ndah-beh-ZEE-tah/Ndabukoboy“Origin; ancestry; that which is traditional/native.”/ndah-BOO-koh/Ndlelaboy“Path; way; road.”/NDEH-lah/Ndodanaboy“Son; little boy.”/n-doh-DAH-nah/Nduduzoboy“Comfort and consolation”/n-doo-DOO-zoh/Ndumisoboy“Praise; thanksgiving.”/n-doo-MEE-soh/Ngenzeniboy“What have I done? A name expressing the difficult circumstances surrounding a birth”/ngen-ZEH-nee/Nhlakaniphoboy“Intelligence and wisdom”/n-khlah-kah-NEE-poh/Nhlanhlaboy or girl“Good fortune, luck, and blessing”/n-HLAHN-hlah/Njabuloboy“Joy and happiness”/n jah-BOO-loh/Nkanyeziboy“Star.”/n-kahn-YEH-zee/Nkanyisoboy“Light; illumination.”/n-kah-NEE-soh/Nkosanaboy“Prince, young chief, or little lord”/n-koh-SAH-nah/Nkosazanagirl“Princess, young royal, or little lady”/n-koh-sah-ZAH-nah/Nkosiboy“Chief, lord, or honored leader”/n-KOH-see/Nkosikhonaboy“The Lord is here; the Lord is present”/nko-see-KHOH-nah/Nkosinathiboy“The Lord is with us”/nko-see-NAH-tee/Nkosingiphileboy““Lord, I am alive/well”; an expression of being kept alive or preserved by the Lord.”/nko-see-gee-PEE-leh/Nkululekoboy or girl“Freedom and liberty”/n-koo-loo-LEH-koh/Nobandlagirl“Of the assembly, congregation, or community; conventionally interpreted as “mother of the assembly.””/noh-BAHN-dlah/Nobantugirl“Of/with the people; conventionally “mother of the people.””/noh-BAHN-too/Nobathulegirl“Associated with silence or quietness; conventionally “mother of the quiet ones/silence.””/noh-bah-THOO-leh/Nobuhlegirl“A child associated with beauty and loveliness”/noh-BOO-hleh/Nobukhosigirl“Of royalty, kingship, or chieftaincy; conventionally “mother of royalty.””/noh-boo-KHOH-see/Nobunganigirl“A woman of friendship and fellowship”/noh-boon-GAH-nee/Nobuntugirl“Mother of humanity, kindness, and good character”/noh-BOON-too/Nokhulekogirl“A prayerful one; prayer”/noh-khoo-LEH-koh/Nokubongagirl“A life surrounded by gratitude and thanksgiving”/noh-koo-BON-gah/Nokuhlegirl“A beautiful one; a child surrounded by beauty”/noh-KOO-hleh/Nokukhanyagirl“Light; conventionally “mother of light.””/noh-koo-KHAN-yah/Nokululekogirl“Freedom and the hope of living unrestrained”/noh-koo-LOO-leh-koh/Nokulungagirl“Goodness, virtue, and righteousness”/noh-koo-LOON-gah/Nokuphilagirl“Life; living; conventionally “mother of life.””/noh-koo-PEE-lah/Nokuthokozagirl“With joy and happiness”/noh-koo-toh-KOH-zah/Nokuthulagirl“Peace, calm, and gentleness”/noh-koo-TOO-lah/Nokuzithobagirl“A child associated with humility and modesty”/noh-koo-zee-TOH-bah/Nokuzolagirl“Peaceful, gentle, and composed”/noh-koo-ZOH-lah/Nokwandagirl“Increase; growth; expansion.”/noh-KWAHN-dah/Nokwazigirl“Mother of knowledge and wisdom”/noh-KWAH-zee/Noluthandogirl“A child surrounded by love”/noh-loo-TAHN-doh/Nolwazigirl“Mother of knowledge; wise and well-informed”/noh-LWAH-zee/Nomagugugirl“A woman of treasures; precious and treasured”/noh-mah-GOO-goo/Nomalangagirl“Of the day(s), sunlight, or daylight; conventionally “mother of the day(s).””/noh-mah-LAHN-gah/Nomandlagirl“Mother of strength; a name wishing courage and inner power”/nom-MUN-dlah/Nombusogirl“Mother of the kingdom, governance, or authority.”/nom-BOO-soh/Nomcebogirl“Mother of wealth or abundance.”/nom-TSEH-boh/Nomfihlogirl“Mother of a secret; associated with secrecy or mystery.”/nohm-FEEH-loh/Nomfundogirl“Mother of education, learning, or knowledge.”/nom-FOON-doh/Nomkhosigirl“Associated with celebration and ceremony”/nohm-KOH-see/Nomondegirl“Mother of patience; a patient and steady person”/noh-MOHN-deh/Nompilogirl“Mother of life; a beautiful affirmation of vitality and blessing”/nom-PEE-loh/Nompumelelogirl“A life marked by success and prosperity”/nom-poo-meh-LEH-loh/Nomsagirl“With kindness and grace”/NOHM-sah/Nomsebenzigirl“Mother of work or labour.”/nohm-BEHN-zee/Nomthandazogirl“A child welcomed with prayer and spiritual hope”/nom-tahn-DAH-zoh/Nomusagirl“Kindness and grace”/noh-MOO-sah/Nomvelogirl“Mother of nature or creation; a name honoring the natural world and origins”/nom-VEH-loh/Nomvulagirl“Mother of rain; a blessing of life-giving rain”/noh-MVOO-lah/Nomzamogirl“Mother of effort, striving, or struggle.”/nohm-ZAH-moh/Nondumisogirl“One who has praise”/non-doo-MEE-soh/Nongalazaboy“A distinguished historical Zulu name associated with courage and military leadership”/non-gah-LAH-zah/Nonhlanhlagirl“One who has good fortune”/non-HLAHN-hlah/Nonhlegirl“Beautiful one; mother of beauty.”/NOHN-hleh/Nonkululekogirl“Mother of freedom or liberation.”/non-koo-loo-LEH-koh/Nontandogirl“Mother of love.”/non-TAN-doh/Nontlegirl“Beautiful one; mother of beauty.”/non-tleh/Nontobekogirl“Mother of humility, meekness, or obedience.”/non-toh-BEH-koh/Nontokozogirl“With joy and happiness”/noh-n-toh-KOH-zoh/Nosiphogirl“One who has a gift”/noh-SEE-poh/Nosizwegirl“Mother of the nation.”/noh-SEE-zweh/Nothandogirl“A child born into love”/noh-TAHN-doh/Nothembekagirl“Mother of trust; trustworthy and dependable”/noh-tem-BEH-kah/Nothembigirl“Mother of hope.”/noh-THEM-bee/Nothilegirl“Prosperous or wealthy one.”/noh-TEE-leh/Nothulagirl“With peace; peaceful one”/noh-TOO-lah/Noxologirl“Mother of peace; one who brings reconciliation”/noh-KHOH-loh/Nqobileboy or girl“One who overcomes and is victorious”/n-koh-BEE-leh/Nqobizithaboy“A courageous conqueror who overcomes every enemy”/n-koh-bee-ZEE-tah/Nqobizizweboy“A strong and victorious person destined to overcome great challenges”/n-koh-bee-ZEE-zweh/Nsizwaboy“Young man; a name celebrating youthful strength and promise”/nsee-ZWAH/Ntandoboy or girl“Will, desire, purpose, or love.”/n-TAHN-doh/Ntandoyenkosiboy or girl“The will or desire of the Lord/God.”/n-tahn-doh-yen-KOH-see/Ntandoyesizweboy or girl“The will or desire of the nation.”/n-tahn-doh-yeh-SEE-zweh/Ntokozoboy or girl“A joyful, happy child”/n-toh-KOH-zoh/Ntombenhlegirl“Beautiful girl or beautiful daughter.”/ntohm-BEHN-hleh/Ntombigirl“Girl; daughter; young woman.”/ntohm-BEE/Ntombifuthigirl“A girl again, warmly welcomed as another daughter in the family”/ntom-bee-FOO-tee/Ntombikayisegirl“Father’s girl; a beloved daughter with a strong family bond”/ntom-bee-kah-YEE-seh/Ntombizodwagirl“The only girl in the family”/ntom-bee-ZOH-dwah/Ntshingwayoboy“Historical Zulu male name, notably borne by Ntshingwayo kaMahole; a secure literal lexical meaning is not established.”/ntshing-GWAH-yoh/Ntuthukoboy“Progress, development, and flourishing”/n-too-TOO-koh/
P
Phakamaniboy“Rise to greatness and make a strong mark in the world”/pah-kah-MAH-nee/Phakamilegirl“Has risen; has been raised or elevated.”/pah-kah-MEE-leh/Phakamisaboy“Raise up; lift up.”/pah-kah-MEE-sah/Phakamisoboy or girl“An uplifting or raising up; one who brings encouragement”/pah-kah-MEE-soh/Phaphamaboy or girl“Awaken to life and opportunity”/pah-PAH-mah/Phikelelaboy or girl“A reminder to keep going, no matter the difficulty”/pee-keh-LEH-lah/Phikelelaniboy or girl“Keep persevering and remain strong through every season”/pee-keh-leh-LAH-nee/Philaboy or girl“Live fully and flourish”/PEE-lah/Phindilegirl“She has returned, bringing renewed hope to the family”/pin-DEE-leh/Phindisiwegirl“Has been returned; has been restored.”/pin-dee-SEE-weh/Phumelelaboy or girl“May you succeed, prosper, and flourish”/poo-meh-LEH-lah/Phumeleleboy or girl“One who has achieved success and brings pride”/poo-meh-LEH-leh/Phumlagirl“Rest; rest peacefully.”/POOM-lah/Phumlaniboy“Rest; one who rests.”/poom-LAH-nee/Phumzilegirl“Has rested; is at rest.”/poom-ZEE-leh/
Q
Qaphelaboy“Be careful and wise; a protective wish for a child who moves through life safely”/kah-PEH-lah/Qaphelaniboy“Be careful and remain vigilant”/qah-peh-LAH-nee/Qhakazagirl“Blossom; bloom.”/kah-KAH-zah/Qhamukileboy or girl“One who has emerged or come into the world”/kha-moo-KEE-leh/Qhaweboy or girl“Hero, brave one, or champion”/GHAH-weh/Qhawekazigirl“Heroine; a brave and admirable woman”/khah-weh-KAH-zee/Qhelilegirl“Has moved away; is distant. Its use as a personal name is attested, but “distinguished” is not the direct lexical meaning.”/kheh-LEE-leh/Qhubekaboy or girl“Keep moving forward with courage and determination”/koo-BEH-kah/Qhubekaniboy or girl“A hopeful call to persevere and carry on”/koo-beh-KAH-nee/Qinilegirl“A strong and steadfast woman”/kee-NEE-leh/Qinisaniboy or girl“May you grow strong and help strengthen those around you”/kee-nee-SAH-nee/Qinisilegirl“Steadfast, strong, and true to herself”/kee-nee-SEE-leh/Qinisoboy or girl“Truth; a truthful and sincere person”/kee-NEE-soh/Qondileboy or girl“Straight; right; correct; upright.”/kॉन-DEE-leh/Qwabeboy“A historical Nguni/Zulu clan and personal name, associated with the eponymous ancestor Qwabe; it does not have a securely established literal lexical meaning.”/KWAH-beh/
S
Sabeloboy“A share or portion, warmly suggesting a child who has been given a special place in the family”/sah-BEH-loh/Sakheboy“We build; a hopeful name for a child who helps create a strong future”/SAH-kheh/Sakhileboy or girl“We have built a strong foundation and come through challenges”/sah-KHEE-leh/Sakhumuziboy“A child who strengthens the family and helps build a loving home”/sah-khoo-MOO-zee/Sakhumziboy“Build the home”/sah-khoo-MOO-zee/Samukelisiwegirl“She has been welcomed and warmly received”/sah-moo-keh-lee-SEE-weh/Samukeloboy or girl“Welcome or acceptance; a child lovingly received into the family”/sah-moo-KEH-loh/Sandileboy“The family has grown and become more plentiful”/sahn-DEE-leh/Sandisoboy“Increase; augmentation; addition.”/sahn-DEE-soh/Saneleboy or girl“We are satisfied; our family is complete”/sah-NEH-leh/Sanelisiwegirl““We have been satisfied/contented,” or “we are content.””/sah-neh-lee-SEE-weh/Sboneloboy“Example; model; illustration.”/sboh-NEH-loh/Sbonisoboy or girl“One who shows or reveals”/s-boh-NEE-soh/Sebenzilegirl““She has worked” / “has worked.””/seh-ben-ZEE-leh/Senamilegirl““We have enough” or “we are content/satisfied.””/seh-na-MEE-leh/Senzangakhonaboy“A historic royal name borne by King Senzangakhona of the Zulu kingdom”/sen-zahn-gah-KHOH-nah/Senzoboy or girl“Deed, action, or achievement”/SEHN-zoh/Shakaboy“A historic royal name associated with Zulu kingship and a powerful legacy”/SHAH-kah/Shinganaboy“A traditional Zulu name carried through generations — its exact literal meaning isn't recorded, which is part of its story”/shing-AH-nah/Sibambeneboy or girl““We hold each other” / “we are united.””/see-bam-BEH-neh/Sibongilegirl“We are thankful; we have given thanks”/see-bon-GEE-leh/Sibusisiwegirl“Blessed and richly favoured”/see-boo-see-SWEH-leh/Sibusisoboy“God’s blessing; a blessing”/see-boo-SEE-soh/Siceloboy“A request or heartfelt wish”/see-CHEH-loh/Sidumoboy“Fame; renown; reputation.”/see-DOO-moh/Sifisoboy or girl“Desire or cherished wish”/see-FEE-soh/Sifundoboy“Lesson; learning; education.”/see-FOON-doh/Siganandaboy“A traditional Zulu name carried through generations — its exact literal meaning isn't recorded, which is part of its story”/see-gah-NAHN-dah/Sigujanaboy“A traditional Zulu name carried through generations — its exact literal meaning isn't recorded, which is part of its story”/see-goo-YAH-nah/Sihleboy or girl“Beautiful or good”/SEE-hleh/Sikhumbuzoboy“A treasured remembrance”/see-khoom-BOO-zoh/Sikhunyanaboy“A traditional Zulu name carried through generations — its exact literal meaning isn't recorded, which is part of its story”/see-khoo-NYAH-nah/Silungileboy or girl“All is well; a child who brings goodness and well-being”/see-loon-GEE-leh/Simangalisoboy“A precious miracle and source of wonder”/see-mahn-gah-LEE-soh/Simelisiwegirl“We have been represented.”/see-meh-lee-SEE-weh/Simelokuhleboy or girl“We stand for what is good.”/see-meh-loh-KOOH-leh/Simphiweboy or girl“We have been given this child as a precious gift”/seem-PHEE-weh/Sinakekelwegirl“We have been cared for / looked after.”/see-nah-keh-KEL-weh/Sindiwegirl“We have waited.”/sin-DEE-weh/Sinethembaboy or girl“We have hope and confidence in the future”/see-neh-TEM-bah/Sinikeziwegirl“We have been given.”/see-nee-keh-ZEE-weh/Sinikiwegirl“We have been given her as a precious gift”/see-nee-KEE-weh/Sinqobaboy or girl“Together, we overcome every challenge”/see-N-koh-bah/Sinqobileboy or girl“We have overcome and triumphed”/see-n-koh-BEE-leh/Siphamandlaboy“We have strength/power.”/see-pah-MAN-dlah/Siphesihleboy or girl“A beautiful gift and blessing to the family”/see-peh-SEE-hleh/Siphoboy“A treasured gift and blessing”/SEE-poh/Siphokazigirl“Female gift; gift daughter.”/see-poh-KAH-zee/Siphumeleleboy or girl“We have made it through and succeeded”/see-poo-meh-LEH-leh/Sisiphoboy or girl“A child welcomed as a precious gift”/see-SEE-poh/Sithembekileboy or girl“We are faithful and trustworthy”/see-tem-beh-KEE-leh/Sithembileboy or girl“We have hoped; we have trusted.”/see-tem-BEE-leh/Sithembisoboy or girl“A promise; one who can be trusted”/see-tem-BEE-soh/Siyabongaboy or girl“We give thanks”/see-yah-BON-gah/Siyajabulaboy or girl“We are rejoicing because of this child”/see-yah-jah-BOO-lah/Siyakhulaboy or girl“We are growing—an expression of hope for a flourishing life”/see-yah-KHOO-lah/Siyamthandaboy or girl“We love him or her”/see-yah-m-TAN-dah/Siyamukelaboy or girl“A warmly welcomed child received with joy”/see-yah-moo-KEH-lah/Siyandaboy or girl“We are growing”/see-yahn-DAH/Siyasangaboy or girl“We embrace; we hug.”/see-yah-SAHN-gah/Siyathokozaboy or girl“We are happy and celebrating”/see-yah-toh-KOH-zah/Siyazamaboy or girl“We are striving and persevering”/see-yah-ZAH-mah/Sizakeleboy or girl“We have been helped”/see-zah-KEH-leh/Sizanigirl“Help us; a loving appeal for support and blessing”/see-ZAH-nee/Sizilegirl“We have come/arrived.”/see-ZEE-leh/Siziphiwegirl“We have been given; we have been gifted.”/see-zee-PEE-weh/Sizophilaboy or girl“We will live”/see-zoh-PEE-lah/Sizweboy“Nation; belonging to the people”/SEE-zweh/Slindilegirl“We have waited.”/sleen-DEE-leh/Smangelegirl“We are amazed; astonished.”/smah-NGEH-leh/Somtsewuboy“A historical Zulu name/title notably associated with John Langalibalele Dube (uSomtseu), often glossed as 'father of the nation.'”/som-TSEH-woo/Sthabilegirl“We are happy.”/stah-BEE-leh/
T
Thabaniboy“Be happy and joyful”/tah-BAH-nee/Thabilegirl“She who is joyful and happy”/tah-BEE-leh/Thabisagirl“One who brings happiness and joy”/tah-BEE-sah/Thabisilegirl“She has made us happy; has brought happiness.”/tah-bee-SEE-leh/Thabisoboy“Joy and happiness”/tah-BEE-soh/Thandazilegirl“She has been prayed for and welcomed with hope”/than-dah-ZEE-leh/Thandekagirl“Beloved; one who is worthy of love”/tahn-DEH-kah/Thandekilegirl“Loved one; one who is loved.”/tahn-deh-KEE-leh/Thandiwegirl“Beloved and cherished”/tahn-DEE-weh/Thandoboy or girl“Love”/TAHN-doh/Thandokuhleboy or girl“Beautiful love”/tan-doh-KOO-hleh/Thandoluhleboy or girl“Love that is beautiful and good”/tan-doh-LOO-hleh/Thandolwenkosiboy“The love of the Lord.”/than-doh-lwen-KOH-see/Thandolwethuboy or girl“Our love; a child who unites the family in affection”/than-doh-LWEH-too/Thanduxoloboy“Love and peace”/than-doo-KHOH-loh/Thembaboy“Hope and trust in a bright future”/TEM-bah/Thembaniboy“Keep hope and trust in the journey ahead”/tem-BAH-nee/Thembekagirl“Trustworthy, faithful, and dependable”/tem-BEH-kah/Thembekileboy or girl“Faithful, trustworthy, and true-hearted”/tem-beh-KEE-leh/Thembelaniboy“Have faith; trust and hope”/tem-beh-LAH-nee/Thembelihleboy or girl“Beautiful hope for a joyful future”/tem-beh-LEE-hleh/Thembigirl“Hope; trust/faith.”/TEM-bee/Thembinkosiboy“Trust in the Lord; one who places faith in God”/tem-bin-KOH-see/Thobekagirl“Be humble; one who embodies humility”/toh-BEH-kah/Thobilegirl“Humble; one who has become humble.”/toh-BEE-leh/Thokozaboy or girl“Be happy and celebrate”/toh-KOH-zah/Thokozaniboy“Rejoice; may this child bring happiness”/toh-koh-ZAH-nee/Thokozilegirl“She has brought happiness and celebration”/toh-koh-ZEE-leh/Thulaboy or girl“Quiet, calm, and peaceful”/TOO-lah/Thulaniboy“Be peaceful and gentle”/too-LAH-nee/Thuligirl“Quiet one; be quiet.”/TOO-lee/Thulilegirl“Peaceful, quiet, and gentle”/too-LEE-leh/Thulisilegirl“She has become calm and peaceful”/too-lee-SEE-leh/Thuluxoloboy or girl“Peaceful and calm”/too-loo-KHOH-loh/
V
Vikizithaboy“Avoid enemies; evade enemies.”/vee-kee-ZEE-thah/Vukaniboy“Wake up; rise with purpose”/voo-KAH-nee/Vukileboy“Awakened; one who has risen”/voo-KEE-leh/Vumaniboy“Agree; consent.”/voo-MAH-nee/Vumileboy or girl“Has agreed; has consented.”/voo-MEE-leh/Vusileboy or girl“Has come to life; has revived/awakened.”/voo-SEE-leh/Vusisiwegirl“She has been blessed.”/voo-see-SEE-weh/Vusizweboy“Revive the people and carry the family’s future forward”/voo-see-ZWEH/Vusumusaboy“Awaken kindness, mercy, or grace.”/voo-soo-MOO-sah/Vusumuziboy“Revive and restore the homestead”/voo-soo-MOO-zee/Vuyaniboy or girl“Rejoice and be glad”/voo-YAH-nee/Vuyiswagirl“She has been made happy; a name celebrating joy and gladness”/voo-YEE-swah/Vuyoboy or girl“Joy; happiness.”/VOO-yaw/
W
X
Y
Z
Zakheleboy or girl“A self-reliant person who builds a strong future”/zah-KHEH-leh/Zamaboy or girl“Try; make an effort.”/ZAH-mah/Zamaniboy“Try (plural); make an effort.”/zah-MAH-nee/Zamantungwagirl“A historic Zulu female personal name, conventionally understood as referring to striving for the Ntungwa/Zulu people.”/zah-mahn-TOONG-wah/Zamilegirl“She has tried; she has made an effort.”/zah-MEE-leh/Zamukelisiwegirl“She has been welcomed or received; a name celebrating a warmly embraced child”/zah-moo-keh-lee-SEE-weh/Zamukeliswagirl“She is being welcomed/received; she has been welcomed.”/zah-moo-keh-LEE-swah/Zandilegirl“The family has grown; there are more of us now”/zahn-DEE-leh/Zandisiwegirl“They have been increased.”/zahn-dee-SWEE-weh/Zanelegirl“The family has enough; this child completes us”/zah-NEH-leh/Zibhebhuboy“A traditional Zulu name carried through generations — its exact literal meaning isn't recorded, which is part of its story”/zee-BHEH-bhoo/Zibuseboy“Rule yourself; govern yourself.”/zee-BOO-seh/Zikhonaboy or girl“They are present; they have arrived”/zee-KHOH-nah/Zimbaliboy or girl“Flowers; flourishing beauty and abundance”/zeem-BAH-lee/Zimeleniboy“Stand up for yourselves.”/zee-meh-LEH-nee/Zimiseleboy or girl“Determined, focused, and ready to reach great goals”/zee-mee-SEH-leh/Zinhlegirl“Beautiful ones; beautiful child”/ZIN-hleh/Zinikeleboy or girl“Devoted; dedicated; having devoted oneself.”/zee-nee-KEH-leh/Zithuleleboy“Keep quiet; be silent.”/zee-too-LEH-leh/Ziyandaboy or girl“They are increasing; they are growing.”/zee-YAHN-dah/Zodwagirl“Only one or unique”/ZOH-dwah/Zolileboy or girl“Calm and peaceful”/zoh-LEE-leh/Zonkegirl“All; everything.”/ZON-keh/Zukileboy“Has risen; a child who rises to meet life with strength”/zoo-KEE-leh/Zukisaboy or girl“Bring glory and honour”/zoo-KEE-sah/Zukoboy“Glory; a bright wish for honour and distinction”/ZOO-koh/Zwelakheboy“His nation/country; of his land.”/zweh-LAH-kheh/Zwelethuboy or girl“Our country or homeland”/zweh-LEH-too/Zweliboy“Nation/country (from izwe).”/ZWEH-lee/Zwelibanziboy“The nation/country is broad or vast.”/zweh-lee-BAHN-zee/Zwelithiniboy“What does the nation say?”/zweh-lee-TEE-nee/Zwelonkeboy“The whole nation; unity and wholeness”/zweh-LON-keh/Zwideboy“Broad; wide; expansive.”/ZWEE-deh/