Kwame Boy
Name Meaning & Origin Pronunciation: KWAH-meh /kwɑːmeɪ/
Origin: Akan; Ghanaian
Meaning: Akan: born on a Saturday
Historical & Cultural Background
The name Kwame originates from the Akan people of Ghana, where it is traditionally given to boys born on a Saturday. The Akan naming system is deeply rooted in the cultural significance of the days of the week, with each day associated with specific attributes and characteristics.
The name itself derives from the Akan word for Saturday, which is "Wɔda" in Twi, the most widely spoken dialect of the Akan language. This linguistic connection highlights the importance of the day of birth in Akan culture, where names are not merely identifiers but also carry meanings that reflect the circumstances of birth and the traits expected of the individual.
Historically, the use of day names like Kwame can be traced back to the 15th century and earlier, as the Akan people established their societal structures and cultural practices. The significance of these names was further solidified through oral traditions and the eventual written documentation of Akan history.
Notable figures in Ghanaian history, including leaders and scholars, have borne the name Kwame, contributing to its cultural resonance. The name gained international recognition through prominent individuals such as Kwame Nkrumah, the first Prime Minister and President of Ghana, who played a crucial role in the country's independence from colonial rule in the mid-20th century.
Culturally, Kwame embodies values of strength and resilience, reflecting the characteristics associated with those born on a Saturday. The name is often linked to wisdom and leadership, making it a significant choice among Akan families.
In addition to its primary form, diminutives or variations may exist, but the essence of the name remains tied to its origins and the cultural practices of the Akan people. Overall, Kwame serves as a powerful symbol of identity and heritage within the context of Ghanaian culture.
Famous people named Kwame
Fictional characters named Kwame
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U.S. Historical Usage
The name Kwame was first seen in the United States in 1960. Kwame has ranked as high as #932 nationally, which occurred in 1990, and has been most popular in New York, California, Georgia, North Carolina, and Illinois. In the past 5 years the name Kwame has been trending up compared to the previous 5 years.
Popularity Over Time (National)
Top States for Kwame (2021)
| State | Births | Share |
|---|---|---|
| CA | 5 | |
| GA | 5 | |
| OH | 5 |
Popularity Over Time (National) — Table
| Year | Births |
|---|---|
| 1960 | 6 |
| 1961 | 11 |
| 1962 | 6 |
| 1963 | 9 |
| 1964 | 9 |
| 1965 | 13 |
| 1966 | 11 |
| 1967 | 8 |
| 1968 | 11 |
| 1969 | 25 |
| 1970 | 44 |
| 1971 | 76 |
| 1972 | 105 |
| 1973 | 91 |
| 1974 | 75 |
| 1975 | 64 |
| 1976 | 61 |
| 1977 | 58 |
| 1978 | 43 |
| 1979 | 61 |
| 1980 | 60 |
| 1981 | 52 |
| 1982 | 63 |
| 1983 | 52 |
| 1984 | 48 |
| 1985 | 38 |
| 1986 | 40 |
| 1987 | 35 |
| 1988 | 39 |
| 1989 | 231 |
| 1990 | 299 |
| 1991 | 196 |
| 1992 | 129 |
| 1993 | 111 |
| 1994 | 123 |
| 1995 | 86 |
| 1996 | 84 |
| 1997 | 60 |
| 1998 | 57 |
| 1999 | 59 |
| 2000 | 54 |
| 2001 | 79 |
| 2002 | 84 |
| 2003 | 50 |
| 2004 | 62 |
| 2005 | 57 |
| 2006 | 47 |
| 2007 | 40 |
| 2008 | 65 |
| 2009 | 40 |
| 2010 | 47 |
| 2011 | 56 |
| 2012 | 52 |
| 2013 | 48 |
| 2014 | 39 |
| 2015 | 36 |
| 2016 | 51 |
| 2017 | 43 |
| 2018 | 40 |
| 2019 | 49 |
| 2020 | 52 |
| 2021 | 48 |
| 2022 | 51 |
| 2023 | 38 |
| 2024 | 36 |