The Swahili language is extremely versatile in the sense that it can be fierce and proud one moment, but subtly sweet the next. These Swahili boy names exemplify this phenomenon, and we’re here to tell you all about some of the best ones we’ve managed to round up.
First, there’s the fairly familiar Baraka, the cousin of which is the namesake of our 44th President, Barack Obama. Both names come from the Arabic word for “blessing,” so it’s a lovely and culturally meaningful name for a blessed little boy.
For a more offbeat choice, opt for Zahour, which comes from the Arabic meaning “blossom.” The relatively strong sounds of Z and H are tempered by the soft A vowel and rolling R sound at the end, making it a beautifully balanced moniker for your little boy. The name peaked in popularity here sometime in the 1920s, so we say it’s high time for a comeback.
There’s also Jelani, another great name that means “mighty.” For parents who wish to instill strength and courage in their little boys, go with Jelani – it’ll be a meaning they’ll carry with them their whole life through.
We’ve got a whole list of Swahili boy names just below, so read on to learn more about them and their lovely meanings.
Abasi
Meaning: Stern
Origin: Swahili
Ahmed
Meaning: Praiseworthy
Origin: Swahili
Annan
Meaning: Fourthborn son
Origin: Swahili
Ashon
Meaning: Seventh-born son
Origin: Swahili
Azizi
Meaning: Precious
Origin: Swahili
Badru
Meaning: Born from a full moon
Origin: Swahili
Bakari
Meaning: Noble promise
Origin: Swahili
Bwana
Meaning: Gentleman
Origin: Swahili
Chane
Meaning: Dependable
Origin: Swahili
Chui
Meaning: Leopard
Origin: Swahili
Chuma
Meaning: Iron
Origin: Swahili
Enzi
Meaning: Powerful
Origin: Swahili
Faraji
Meaning: Consolation
Origin: Swahili
Haji
Meaning: Born during the pilgrimage to Mecca
Origin: Swahili
Hamisi
Meaning: Born on Thursday
Origin: Swahili
Hanisi
Meaning: Born on Thursday
Origin: Swahili
Hasani
Meaning: Handsome
Origin: Swahili
Idi
Meaning: Born during the Idd festival
Origin: Swahili
Issa
Meaning: God is our salvation
Origin: Swahili
Jaali
Meaning: Powerful
Origin: Swahili
Jabari
Meaning: Fearless, brave
Origin: Swahili
Jahi
Meaning: Dignified
Origin: Swahili
Jela
Meaning: Father that has suffered during
Origin: Swahili
Jelani
Meaning: Mighty
Origin: Swahili
Jimoh
Meaning: Born on Friday
Origin: Swahili
Joshi
Meaning: Galloping
Origin: Swahili
Jumaane
Meaning: Born on Tuesday
Origin: Swahili
Kanu
Meaning: Wildcat
Origin: Swahili
Khamisi
Meaning: Born on Thursday
Origin: Swahili
Kito
Meaning: Precious child
Origin: Swahili
Kitwana
Meaning: Pledged to live
Origin: Swahili
Kondo
Meaning: War
Origin: Swahili
Mansa
Meaning: King
Origin: Swahili
Mbita
Meaning: Born on a cold night
Origin: Swahili
Mosi
Meaning: First-born
Origin: Swahili
Musa
Meaning: Child
Origin: Swahili
Neema
Meaning: Born during prosperius times
Origin: Swahili
Pili
Meaning: Second born
Origin: Swahili
Rashidi
Meaning: Wise counselor
Origin: Swahili
Rehema
Meaning: Second-born
Origin: Swahili
Safari
Meaning: Born while traveling
Origin: Swahili
Saka
Meaning: Hunter
Origin: Swahili
Salene
Meaning: Good
Origin: Swahili
Sefu
Meaning: Sword
Origin: Swahili
Simba
Meaning: Lion
Origin: Swahili
Siwatu
Meaning: Born during a time of conflict
Origin: Swahili
Sudi
Meaning: Lucky
Origin: Swahili
Sultan
Meaning: Ruler
Origin: Swahili
Zahur
Meaning: Flower
Origin: Swahili
Zakia
Meaning: Intelligent
Origin: Swahili