Kweku Boy
Name Meaning & Origin Pronunciation: KWEH-koo //ˈkwɛku//
Origin: Akan; Ghanaian
Meaning: A boy born on Wednesday
Historical & Cultural Background
The name Kweku has its roots in the Akan language of Ghana, where it is traditionally given to boys born on a Wednesday. The Akan people have a rich cultural heritage, and their naming conventions are deeply intertwined with the days of the week, each associated with specific attributes and characteristics.
The name Kweku is derived from the Akan word for Wednesday, which is "Kwaku," and it reflects a broader linguistic tradition in which names are often linked to the day of birth, a practice that is prevalent in various cultures around the world. Historically, the significance of names like Kweku can be traced back to the 15th century when the Akan people began to establish more structured societies in what is now modern-day Ghana.
As the Akan kingdoms developed, so too did their cultural practices, including naming ceremonies that celebrated the birth of a child and their connection to the community. The use of day names, such as Kweku, became a way to instill a sense of identity and belonging, as well as to convey the values and expectations associated with each day.
Culturally, Kweku embodies the Akan belief in the spiritual significance of names. It is thought that the name can influence a person's character and destiny, and thus, the choice of Kweku carries with it a weight of tradition and expectation.
The name is often associated with traits such as intelligence and creativity, reflecting the cultural values of the Akan people. Additionally, diminutive forms or related names, such as Kwaku, are also used, but Kweku remains the primary form for boys born on Wednesday.
This naming practice not only serves as a personal identifier but also as a connection to the rich cultural tapestry of the Akan heritage.
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U.S. Historical Usage
The name Kweku was first seen in the United States in 1987. Kweku has ranked as high as #1282 nationally, which occurred in 2002, and has been most popular in . In the past 5 years the name Kweku has been trending up compared to the previous 5 years.
Popularity Over Time (National)
Top States for Kweku
No state data available for this year.
Popularity Over Time (National) — Table
| Year | Births |
|---|---|
| 1987 | 5 |
| 1993 | 5 |
| 1994 | 5 |
| 2000 | 5 |
| 2001 | 5 |
| 2002 | 8 |
| 2005 | 7 |
| 2007 | 5 |
| 2008 | 6 |
| 2009 | 8 |
| 2010 | 5 |
| 2013 | 5 |
| 2018 | 5 |
| 2019 | 7 |