Shona names.
431 verified names from Zimbabwe — each with its meaning, its sound, and its traditional spelling.
A
Addmore“English-style Zimbabwean name meaning “add more,” expressing a wish for increase or blessing.”/AD-more/maleAdhamu“The first man; associated with humanity and new beginnings”/ah-DHAH-moo/maleAizivaishe““She knew the Lord/God” (from aiziva Ishe).”/eye-zee-vah-EE-sheh/femaleAnashe“God is with us”/ah-NAH-sheh/anyAnatswanashe““Cleansed/purified by the Lord (God).””/ah-nah-tswah-nah-SHEH/femaleAnenyasha“She has grace”/ah-neh-NYAH-shah/femaleAnerudo““She has love” or “one who has love.””/ah-neh-ROO-doh/femaleAnesu“God is with us”/ah-NEH-soo/anyAngel“Greek-derived name meaning “messenger”; in Christian use, a messenger of God.”/AYN-juhl/anyAnodiwa“Beloved and deeply cherished”/ah-noh-DEE-wah/femaleAnofara“He/she is happy.”/ah-noh-FAH-rah/anyAnokosha“Precious and deeply valued”/ah-noh-KOH-shah/femaleAnokudzwa“He/she is honoured; one who is respected.”/ah-noh-KOODZ-wah/anyAnotenda“He/she gives thanks; he/she is thankful.”/ah-noh-TEN-dah/anyAnotida“God loves us”/ah-noh-TEE-dah/anyAnotidaishe“The Lord loves us”/ah-noh-tee-dah-EE-sheh/anyAripano“She is here.”/ah-ree-PAH-no/femaleArthur“A traditional Shona name carried through generations — its exact literal meaning isn't recorded, which is part of its story”/AR-thur/maleAtafadzwa“One who has been made happy; one who is pleased.”/ah-tah-FADZ-wah/femaleAtifarire“May we rejoice; let us be happy.”/ah-tee-fah-REE-reh/femaleAtinotenda“We give thanks”/ah-tee-noh-TEN-dah/anyAtipaishe“Give us, Lord.”/ah-tee-pie-SHEH/any
B
Batanai“Unite; be united.”/bah-tah-NAI/maleBatsirai“Help and support are always with you”/baht-see-RYE/anyBelieve“Believe; have faith.”/bih-LEEV/anyBernadette“A French feminine form of Bernard, meaning “brave bear.””/ber-nah-DET/femaleBlessing“A blessing.”/BLES-ing/anyBlessmore“Bless more; may there be more blessings.”/BLESS-more/maleBongai“Give thanks.”/bong-EYE/maleBrenda“A name of uncertain origin, often linked to Old Norse brandr, “sword.””/BREN-dah/femaleBright“Bright; shining.”/BRYTE/maleBrightmore“An English-style compound name suggesting “more brightness.””/BRYTE-more/maleBrighton“An English place-name, derived from “Beorthelm’s settlement.””/BRY-tun/maleBrilliant“Brilliant; exceptionally intelligent or impressive.”/BRIL-yunt/maleBvumai““Agree” or “accept” (a plural/addressee imperative from bvuma).”/bvoo-MY/any
C
Chabuda““That which has come out/emerged” (from -buda, to come or go out).”/cha-BOO-dah/anyChabvuta“Related to -bvuta, “to snatch, seize, or grab.””/cha-BVOO-tah/anyChakafadza““It has pleased” or “that which has pleased.””/chah-kah-FAD-zah/anyChakafadzwa““It has been pleased/delighted.””/chah-kah-FADZ-wah/anyChakafara““It became happy” or “it rejoiced.””/chah-kah-FAH-rah/anyChaminuka“A major traditional Shona name, especially associated with Chaminuka, the renowned ancestral spirit medium and historical-religious figure.”/cha-mee-NOO-kah/maleChamunorwa““That which is fought for” or “one who is contended for,” from -norwa, “to be fought.””/chah-moo-NOR-wah/anyChando“Winter or the cold season, for a child born in that season.”/CHAN-do/anyChangamire“A distinguished name for a child destined to lead with strength and honor.”/chahn-gah-MEE-reh/maleCharity“A child associated with love, kindness, and generosity”/CHAR-i-tee/femaleChauya““It has come” or “that which has come.””/chah-OO-yah/anyChawanda““It has increased,” “become many,” or “multiplied.””/cha-WAN-dah/anyChawasarira““What has remained/been left behind,” from -sarira.”/chah-wah-sah-REE-rah/anyChengetai“A blessing that the child will safeguard the family and all it holds dear.”/chen-geh-TYE/anyChengeto“Protection, guarding, or safekeeping.”/chen-GEH-toh/anyChenjerai“A thoughtful, careful, and wise person”/chen-je-RAI/anyChidamoyo““Heart’s desire” or “what the heart desires.””/chee-dah-MOH-yoh/anyChido“Desire, love, or something wished for.”/CHEE-doh/femaleChidochangu“My desire; my love.”/chee-doh-CHAN-goo/femaleChidochashe“God's desire or God's will.”/chee-doh-chah-SHEH/femaleChiedza“Light, warmth, and goodness”/chee-ED-zah/anyChikomborero“Blessing; benediction.”/chee-kom-bo-REH-roh/anyChikumbiro“Request, plea, or prayer.”/chee-koom-BEE-roh/anyChikumbutso“Reminder, remembrance, or memorial.”/chee-koom-BOOT-soh/anyChinokosha“What is precious and valuable”/chee-noh-KOH-shah/anyChipo“A gift, gratefully received from God”/CHEE-poh/femaleChipochashe“God's gift; a gift from God.”/chee-poh-chah-SHEH/femaleChiratidzo“A child seen as a meaningful sign or blessing”/chee-rah-TID-zoh/anyChirimo“The rainy season; a time of renewal and growth”/chee-REE-moh/anyChirorodza“A comforter; one or that which soothes or consoles.”/chee-roh-ROHD-zah/femaleChirume“A name celebrating manhood, strength, and dignity”/chee-ROO-meh/maleChisango“Bush, wilderness, or forest/thicket.”/chee-SAHNG-goh/maleChisara“What remains; a precious remainder”/chee-SAH-rah/femaleChiseko“Laughter, amusement, or a joke; in some contexts, mockery.”/chee-SEH-koh/anyChisungo“Bond or covenant; a cherished connection that holds people together”/chee-SOON-goh/anyChitsidzo“Promise; pledge; vow.”/chit-SEE-dzoh/anyChivimbo“Faith, trust, and confidence in the future”/chee-VIM-boh/femaleChokwadi“Truth; an honest and trustworthy person”/cho-KWAD-ee/maleChomunorwa“That which is fought for; something worth fighting for.”/choh-moo-NOR-wah/anyChuma“Treasure and prosperity; a precious child”/CHOO-mah/maleClever“Clever; intelligent; skillful.”/KLEV-er/maleCollins“An English surname/given name meaning “son of Colin”; Colin is often linked to Nicholas (“victory of the people”), but Collins does not directly mean “victorious people.””/KOL-inz/maleComfort“A source of comfort and consolation”/KUM-fert/anyConstance“Steadfast and constant”/KON-stans/femaleCourage“A brave and courageous child”/KUR-ij/male
D
Daisai“Be happy”/dah-ee-SAI/femaleDaisy“A flower name, from the daisy.”/DAY-zee/femaleDakarai“Rejoice; a child who brings happiness and celebration”/dah-kah-RYE/maleDambudzo“Trouble; difficulty; hardship.”/dam-BOO-dzoh/maleDanai“Love one another; love each other.”/dah-NAH-ee/femaleDananai“Love and togetherness”/dah-nah-NYE/anyDariro“Purpose, aim, or intention.”/dah-REE-roh/anyDarisai“Show or reveal what is present”/dah-ree-SAI/anyDaviti“Shona form of David; “beloved.””/dah-VEE-tee/maleDebhora“Bee; traditionally associated with diligence and strength”/deh-BOH-rah/femaleDenga“Sky or heavens”/DEN-gah/anyDesmond“An English/Irish name meaning “from South Munster” (or “man of South Munster”).”/DEZ-mond/maleDhanieri“God is my judge”/dhah-nee-EH-ree/maleDhonza“To pull, draw, or drag.”/DHAWN-zah/maleDiligence“A child valued for perseverance and steady effort”/DIL-i-jens/anyDingirai“Seek, look for, or pursue.”/din-gih-RYE/anyDombo“A strong and enduring person, like a rock”/DOM-boh/maleDouglas“A Scottish Gaelic name meaning “dark river.””/DUG-las/maleDudzai“One who teaches and guides others wisely”/DOOD-zai/anyDudzanai“Teach or instruct one another.”/doo-dzah-NAI/anyDudzirai“Explain matters clearly and bring understanding”/doo-dzih-RYE/anyDudziro“Explanation or interpretation.”/doo-DZEE-roh/anyDzidzai“A lifelong learner, growing in wisdom and understanding”/DZEED-zai/anyDzikamai“Calmness and peace”/dzee-kah-MYE/maleDzingai“Drive away, chase away, or ward off.”/dzin-GUY/maleDzorerai“Restore or return; a hopeful name of renewal”/dzo-reh-RAI/male
E
Edison“An English surname-name meaning “son of Eda” (sometimes analysed as “son of Edward”); it is used as a male given name in Zimbabwe.”/ED-ih-son/maleElisabeti“God is my oath; a child held in faithful devotion”/eh-lee-sah-BEH-tee/femaleEmmanuel“A joyful name meaning “God is with us””/ih-MAN-yoo-el/maleErasto“Beloved; pleasing”/eh-RAH-stoh/maleEriya““My God is Yahweh” / “Yahweh is my God.””/eh-REE-yah/maleEsteri“A form of Esther, meaning “star””/eh-STEH-ree/femaleEvidence““Evidence,” “proof,” or “testimony.””/EV-uh-dens/anyEzekieri““God strengthens” / “God will strengthen.””/eh-zeh-kee-EH-ree/male
F
Fadzai“Be happy and bring happiness to others”/fah-DZYE/femaleFadzisai““Make happy” or “bring happiness.””/fah-DZEE-sigh/anyFadziso“A source of happiness and joy”/fah-DZEE-soh/anyFadziswa““One who has been made happy” / “made happy.””/fah-DZEE-swah/femaleFadzwa““Be happy” or “be made happy.””/fah-DZWAH/femaleFainos“A shining or radiant one”/FY-noss/maleFaith“A child who represents faith and trust”/FAYTH/femaleFara“Rejoice; a joyful child”/FAH-rah/anyFarai“Rejoice; be happy”/fah-RYE/anyFarisai““Make happy” or “cause rejoicing.””/fah-ree-SAI/femaleFavour“Favour, kindness, and gracious blessing”/FAY-ver/anyFelistas“A Zimbabwean form related to Felicitas/Felista, meaning “fortunate,” “lucky,” or “happy.””/feh-LEE-stas/femaleFesto“Joyful celebration; festivity”/FEH-stoh/maleFirstborn““The first-born child.””/FERST-born/anyForget“Forget; an English-language name, generally borne by males in Zimbabwean usage.”/fer-GET/maleFungai“Thoughtfulness and good judgment”/foon-GAI/anyFungisai“A thoughtful person who considers things deeply”/foon-gee-SAI/any
G
Gabrieri“God is my strength”/gah-bree-EH-ree/maleGadzirai“Prepare yourselves; make preparations.”/gah-dzee-RYE/maleGamu“Welcome; a short form associated with Gamuchirai.”/GAH-moo/femaleGamuchirai“Receive; welcome.”/gah-moo-chee-RAI/anyGarai“Stay; remain”/gah-RAI/anyGarikai“May you live well and prosper”/gah-ree-KYE/anyGift“A precious gift to the family”/GIFT/anyGiftmore“More gift(s), or an additional gift.”/GIFT-more/maleGivemore“Give more.”/give-MORE/maleGladys“A traditional Shona name carried through generations — its exact literal meaning isn't recorded, which is part of its story”/GLAD-iss/femaleGodknows“God knows.”/god-NOHZ/maleGodsent“Sent by God.”/GOD-sent/maleGoodness“A child associated with goodness and kindness”/GOOD-nes/femaleGrace“A child received as a gracious blessing”/GRAYS/femaleGumisai“Finish; bring to completion.”/goo-mee-SYE/femaleGutsa“Contentment and satisfaction”/GOOT-sah/maleGwinyai“Be strong; be firm.”/gwee-NYE/male
H
Hamisai“Bring happiness; make joyful”/hah-mee-SY/maleHana“Grace; favour (Hebrew), as a form of Hannah.”/HAH-nah/femaleHappiness“A joyful child who brings happiness”/HAP-ee-nes/femaleHappison“Happy's son; an English-style formed name.”/HAP-ih-son/maleHappymore“More happiness.”/HAP-ee-more/maleHerbert“Bright army; from Germanic elements meaning “bright” and “army.””/HER-bert/maleHondo“War.”/HON-doh/maleHopewell“Hope well; a name expressing hope for a good future.”/HOHP-well/male
I
J
K
Kaguvi“Associated with Kaguvi, the male spirit medium prominent in the First Chimurenga; this is a historical association rather than a literal translation.”/kah-GOO-vee/maleKainos“New; fresh. It is Greek-derived rather than a Shona lexical name, but is used as a male given name in Zimbabwe.”/KY-noss/maleKarikoga“A traditional Shona name carried through generations — its exact literal meaning isn't recorded, which is part of its story”/kah-ree-KOH-gah/maleKnowledge“Knowledge; an English virtue-style given name that is well established in Zimbabwean usage.”/NOL-ij/maleKudakwashe“The will of the Lord”/koo-dah-kwah-SHEH/maleKudzai“Praise; give praise to God”/kood-ZAI/anyKudzaishe“Praise the Lord”/kood-zah-EE-sheh/anyKudzanai“A beautiful wish for a life surrounded by mutual respect and dignity.”/koo-dzah-NYE/anyKukunda“Victory and overcoming—a name that celebrates triumph after difficulty.”/koo-KOON-dah/anyKumbirai“Ask; pray; request (a plural or respectful imperative).”/koom-bee-RYE/maleKunaka“Goodness and beauty”/koo-NAH-kah/anyKunashe“With God; in God's hands/presence.”/koo-NAH-sheh/anyKundai“Conquer and overcome—a hopeful name for a child destined to triumph.”/koon-DYE/anyKurai“Grow; may you grow.”/koo-RAI/maleKushinga“Courage, bravery, strength, or fortitude.”/koo-SHING-ah/anyKushivirira“Patience, perseverance, and a steady heart”/koo-shi-vi-REE-ra/anyKutenda“To thank; giving thanks; thanksgiving.”/koo-TEN-dah/anyKuzivai“Know; understand (a plural or respectful imperative).”/koo-zee-VAI/any
L
M
Mabasa“Work or service; honouring diligence and useful contribution”/mah-BAH-sah/maleMafaro“Joy, happiness, or gladness.”/mah-FAH-roh/anyMaidei“What did you want?”/my-EH-dee/femaleMaita“A warm expression of thanks and appreciation”/MY-tah/anyMakaita“You have done well; an expression of thanks or praise addressed respectfully or to more than one person.”/mah-KAI-tah/anyMakanaka“You are beautiful”/mah-nah-KAH-nah/femaleMakomborero“Many blessings and abundant good fortune”/mah-kohm-boh-REH-roh/anyMakorokoto“A joyful congratulations on a long-awaited blessing”/mah-koh-roh-KOH-toh/anyMambo“A regal name evoking leadership, dignity, and authority.”/MAHM-boh/maleMamirai““Wait” — a respectful/plural imperative; “remain steadfast” is not the literal gloss.”/mah-mee-RAI/anyMapondera“Name associated with Chief Mapondera, a Shona leader of anti-colonial resistance; it is not a literal word meaning “bold” or “determination.””/mah-pon-DEH-rah/maleMariya“Shona form of Mary. Mary’s ultimate Hebrew etymology is disputed, rather than securely meaning devotion or strength.”/mah-REE-yah/femaleMaruva“Flowers; a life full of beauty and blossoming”/mah-ROO-vah/femaleMarvelous“A wonderfully remarkable child”/MAR-vuh-lus/anyMasimba“May you carry great strength and become a powerful source of support to others.”/mah-SIM-bah/maleMatifadza““You have made us happy” / “you have pleased us.””/mah-tee-FAH-dzah/femaleMatope““Mud” or “clay.””/ma-TOH-peh/maleMatsika““Customs,” “traditions,” or “culture.””/mah-TSEE-kah/maleMaxwell“A powerful name associated with greatness and strength”/MAKS-well/maleMazvita““Life” or “one who has life.””/maz-VEE-tah/anyMbiri“A name wishing you a life of distinction, good reputation, and lasting honor.”/M-BEE-ree/anyMemory“A cherished child who will always be remembered”/MEM-uh-ree/femaleMercy“A child associated with mercy and compassion”/MUR-see/femaleMhepo“Wind or breeze”/MHEH-poh/anyMhofu““Eland,” a large antelope and an important Shona totemic designation.”/m-HOH-foo/maleMirirai““Wait!” or “keep waiting,” from the Shona verb kumirira.”/mee-ree-RAI/femaleMoto“Fire; warmth, energy and brightness”/MOH-toh/anyMubaiwa““One who has been pierced/stabbed” or “one who has been injected,” from kubaya (“to pierce, stab, inject”).”/moo-BYE-wah/maleMuchaneta““You will become tired/weary.””/moo-chah-NEH-tah/femaleMuchengeti“A child seen as a guardian of the family and its heritage.”/moo-cheh-NGEH-tee/anyMuchineripi“An interrogative expression approximately meaning “What do you have?” or “Which one do you have?””/moo-chee-neh-REE-pee/maleMudiwa“Beloved and dearly cherished”/moo-DEE-wah/anyMudiwanashe““Beloved of God” / “God’s beloved.””/moo-dee-wah-NAH-sheh/anyMufakazi““Witness” or “one who testifies.””/moo-fah-KAH-zee/anyMufakose““All happiness” or “complete happiness,” associated with mufaro wose.”/moo-fah-KOH-seh/anyMufaro“Happiness and joy”/moo-FAH-roh/anyMugove“A cherished inheritance and a blessing entrusted to the family.”/moo-GOH-veh/maleMujuru“A traditional name associated with a hare, a clever and resourceful animal”/moo-JOO-roo/maleMukai“Wake up; an encouraging call to rise and meet life”/moo-KAI/maleMukundi“Victor or conqueror; one who overcomes difficulties”/moo-KOON-dee/maleMukurumbira““Fame,” “reputation,” or “renown.””/moo-koo-room-BEE-rah/anyMunashe“With the Lord; living under God’s care”/moo-NAH-sheh/anyMunesu“God is with us, or a child held within the family”/moo-NEH-soo/anyMunoda““You love” or “you want,” depending on context.”/moo-NOH-dah/maleMunyaradzi“Comforter; one who brings comfort”/moo-nyah-RAH-dzee/maleMupako““Blessing.””/moo-PAH-koh/maleMupenyu““A living person,” “one who is alive,” or “the living one.””/moo-PEN-yoo/anyMupfumi““A rich person,” “wealthy person,” or “prosperous person.””/moo-PFOO-mee/anyMupiro““Offering,” “sacrifice,” or “contribution.””/moo-PEE-roh/femaleMuponesi“Saviour or deliverer; one who brings help and protection”/moo-poh-NEH-see/maleMurimi““Farmer,” “cultivator,” or “one who farms.””/moo-REE-mee/maleMusafare““Do not be happy/rejoice” (a negative imperative form); it does not mean “may you not be troubled.””/moo-sah-FAH-reh/maleMusha“A cherished reminder of belonging, family, and the place one calls home.”/MOO-shah/anyMutandwa“A deeply cherished and dearly loved child”/moo-TAND-wah/maleMutasa“A traditional family name also used as a masculine given name”/moo-TAH-sah/maleMutota“An honored traditional Shona male name from the history of the Mutapa state”/moo-TOH-tah/maleMutsa“Grace and kindness”/MOOT-sah/anyMutsawashe“A cherished last-born child, seen as the final blessing in the family.”/moot-sa-WA-sheh/anyMutumwa“Messenger, envoy, or one sent with a message.”/moo-TOOM-wah/maleMvura“Rain, a life-giving name for a child born during rain or a rainy season.”/MVOO-ra/anyMwanasikana“Daughter; girl child”/mwah-nah-see-KAH-nah/femaleMwedzi“Moon”/MWED-zee/any
N
Nakaishe“God is good”/nah-kai-SHEH/femaleNamatirai““Pray” or “pray, you all”; it does not literally mean “pray for me.””/nah-mah-tee-RAI/femaleNatsa“Become good, beautiful, or improved”/NAHT-sah/anyNatsai“Derived from kunatsa: “make good,” “improve,” or “beautify.””/nah-TSY/femaleNdarama“Like gold: precious, valuable, and treasured.”/ndah-RAH-mah/anyNehanda“A powerful heritage name associated with spiritual authority, courage, and leadership.”/neh-HAHN-dah/femaleNehemiah“Comforted and strengthened by God”/nee-huh-MY-uh/maleNetsai“Associated with -netsa, “to trouble, bother, or make difficult”; it is not a patience-and-strength gloss.”/neh-TSAI/femaleNever“An English word name: “never.””/NEV-er/anyNgwarai“Be watchful or careful; a protective blessing”/ngwah-RAI/maleNhamo“A name remembering hardship overcome”/NYAH-moh/anyNhamodzenyika““Troubles/misfortunes of the country (nation).””/nyah-moh dzeh-NYEE-kah/maleNyamudzai“Comfort; console; bring reassurance.”/nyah-moo-DZAI/femaleNyamutswa“A hopeful name for new life and the return of joy to the family.”/nyah-MOOT-swah/anyNyaradzai“Comfort; consolation; one who brings reassurance.”/nyah-rah-DZAH-ee/femaleNyaradzo“Comfort, peace, and reassurance”/nyah-rah-DZOH/femaleNyarai“Be humbled; show humility”/nyah-RAI/anyNyasha“Grace and mercy”/NYAH-shah/anyNyatsimba“A traditional Shona name carried through generations — its exact literal meaning isn't recorded, which is part of its story”/nyaht-SEEM-bah/maleNyemudzai“Make us smile; bring smiles to the family”/nyeh-moo-DZYE/femaleNyemwerera“Smile; smile at someone.”/nyem-weh-REH-rah/femaleNzou“Elephant; a symbol of strength and dignity”/N-ZOH-oo/any
O
P
Paidamoyo“Love of the heart; heartfelt love.”/pie-dah-MOY-oh/femalePamhidzai“Increase; add to; make grow.”/pahm-hee-DZYE/anyPanashe“There is God; God is present”/pah-nah-SHEH/anyPanganai“Meet together; come together; assemble.”/pan-ga-NYE/malePardon“Pardon and mercy; a child associated with forgiveness and grace”/PAR-don/malePasipamire“Stand firm; let it remain standing.”/pah-see-pah-MEE-reh/malePatience“Patience, endurance, and quiet strength”/PAY-shens/anyPaymore“A Zimbabwean English-style coined name, literally "pay more"; it has no fixed traditional Shona semantic gloss.”/PAY-more/malePeace“A peaceful and calming presence in the family”/PEES/anyPembedzai“Praise; give praise.”/pem-bed-ZAI/anyPetro“Rock; a dependable foundation”/PEH-troh/malePfuma“Wealth and abundance; a heartfelt wish that life brings prosperity.”/PFOO-mah/anyPfumai“May you grow in wealth and prosperity.”/PFOO-my/anyPfumojena“White spear.”/pfoo-moh-JEH-nah/malePindukai“Enter; come in.”/pin-doo-KYE/malePraise“A child who inspires gratitude and praise”/PRAYZ/anyPrayer“Prayer”/PRAIR/anyPrecious“Precious; treasured”/PRESH-us/femalePrince“Prince; a male royal child or ruler”/PRINSS/malePrincess“Princess; a female royal child”/prin-SESS/femaleProgress“Progress; advancement”/PRAH-gres/anyPromise“Promise; pledge”/PROM-is/anyProsper“Prosper; thrive or succeed”/PROS-per/maleProsperity“Prosperity, flourishing, and well-being”/pross-PAIR-uh-tee/anyPrudence“A wise, thoughtful, and sensible child”/PROO-dens/female
Q
R
Rambai“Keep going and persevere—a name honoring determination and endurance.”/rahm-BYE/anyRanganai“Remember one another”/rah-ngah-NYE/maleRangarirai“Remembering a loved one or an important family story through the birth of this child.”/ran-ga-ree-RYE/anyRaramai“Live on; continue living”/rah-rah-MYE/femaleRatidzo“Sign; indication”/rah-TEE-dzoh/anyRatidzwai“Be shown; be revealed”/rah-tid-ZWAI/femaleReadmore“Read more”/REED-more/maleReason“Reason; judgment or rational thought”/REE-zun/maleRerai“Raise; bring up; nurture”/reh-RYE/maleReward“Reward; something given in recognition of an action or service”/rih-WORD/maleRondedzai“Tell; narrate”/ron-deh-DZYE/maleRopafadzo“Blessing”/roh-pah-FAHD-zoh/femaleRopafadzwa“We have been blessed”/roh-pah-FADZ-wah/anyRovedzai“Teach; train; educate.”/roh-veh-DZYE/femaleRudo“Love and affection”/ROO-doh/anyRufaro“Joy and gladness”/roo-FAH-roh/anyRugare“Peace and harmony”/roo-GAH-reh/anyRukudzo“Honor, respect, or esteem.”/roo-KOOD-zoh/femaleRumbidzai“Praise; celebrate God’s goodness”/room-bee-DZAI/anyRunako“Beauty and grace”/roo-NAH-koh/femaleRungano“Story, narrative, or account.”/roo-NGAH-noh/anyRunyararo“Peace and gentleness”/roo-nyah-RAH-roh/anyRutendo“Faith and a grateful heart”/roo-TEN-doh/femaleRuva“Flower; a blossoming child”/ROO-vah/femaleRuvimbo“Faith and trust”/roo-VIM-boh/female
S
Samueri“God has heard”/sah-moo-EH-ree/maleSara“Sarah, traditionally understood as princess or noblewoman”/SAH-rah/femaleSarudzai“Choose; select.”/sah-roo-DZAI/femaleSaviour“An English word name meaning a savior, rescuer, or one who saves.”/SAY-vyer/maleSekai“May you laugh often and bring laughter to others”/seh-KYE/anyShamisai“Astonish; surprise.”/shah-mee-SIGH/anyShamiso“Wonder; marvel”/shah-MEE-soh/anyShepherd“An English occupational word name for one who tends sheep; it may also carry Christian symbolism.”/SHEP-erd/maleShingai“Be courageous—a warm wish for a child who faces life with bravery.”/shin-GUY/anyShingirai“Persevere and keep going—a name celebrating resilience through every challenge.”/shin-gee-RY/anyShiri“Bird; a child with freedom and a joyful spirit”/SHEE-ree/anyShorai“Criticize, condemn, or despise.”/sho-RAI/femaleShumba“Lion; a strong and courageous child”/SHOOM-bah/anyShuvai“Yearn for; desire; long for.”/SHOO-vye/femaleSilence“An English word name meaning silence; used for both sexes in Zimbabwe.”/SY-lens/anySimba“A strong name wishing you influence, courage, and inner power.”/SIM-bah/anySimbarashe“The power of the Lord”/seem-bah-rah-SHEH/maleSimbisai“Strengthen; encourage; make strong.”/sim-bi-SAH-ee/anySimukai“Arise; get up; wake up.”/see-moo-KAI/anySophia“A Greek female name meaning 'wisdom,' used in Zimbabwe.”/soh-FEE-ah/femaleStanley“English locational name meaning “stone clearing” or “stony meadow.””/STAN-lee/maleStella“Star”/STEL-ah/femaleSuccess“Success and the fulfilment of hopes”/suk-SESS/anySukai“Be joyful and cheerful”/soo-KAI/femaleSungano“A lasting bond and family union”/soon-GAH-noh/anySusana““Lily” (ultimately from Hebrew shoshannah).”/soo-SAH-nah/femaleSvinurai““Be alert,” “wake up,” or literally “open your eyes.””/svee-noo-RYE/maleSvosve““Wasp.””/SVOHS-veh/male
T
Tadiwa“Loved and cherished by the family”/tah-DEE-wah/anyTadiwanashe“Loved by the Lord”/tah-dee-wah-nah-SHEH/anyTafadzwa“We have been made happy; a joyful blessing”/tah-FAHDZ-wah/anyTafadzwanashe““God has made us happy” or “we have been made happy by God.””/tah-FADZ-wah-nah-SHEH/anyTafara“We have rejoiced; this child has brought us joy”/tah-FAH-rah/maleTafirenyika““We died for the country” or “we have died for the homeland.””/tah-fee-reh-NYEE-kah/maleTakawira““We have fallen.””/tah-kah-WEE-rah/maleTakudzwa“We have been praised or glorified”/tah-KOODZ-wah/anyTakunda““We have conquered,” “we have won,” or “we have overcome.””/tah-KOON-dah/anyTalent““Talent” or “natural ability.””/TAL-ent/anyTambudzai“Bring us happiness and rejoicing”/tahm-boo-DZYE/femaleTanaka““We are good” or “we are well.””/tah-NAH-kah/anyTanyaradzwa““We have been comforted” or “we have received comfort.””/tahn-yah-RAHDZ-wah/anyTapiwa“We have been given this precious child”/tah-PEE-wah/anyTapiwanashe“Given by God”/tah-pee-wah-nah-SHEH/anyTarirai““Look!” or “Pay attention!””/tah-ree-RAI/anyTariro“Hope and a bright future”/tah-REE-roh/anyTaruwona““We have seen” / “we have seen it.””/tah-roo-WOH-nah/anyTatenda“We have given thanks”/tah-TEN-dah/anyTaurai“May your voice be heard and respected”/tah-oo-RYE/anyTaurisai“Tell, explain, or make something known”/tow-ree-SAI/anyTawananyasha“We have received grace”/tah-wah-nah-NYAH-shah/anyTawanda“Growth, abundance, and a family flourishing”/tah-WAN-dah/anyTendai“Be thankful; give thanks to God”/ten-DAI/anyTendaishe““Thank God.””/ten-dah-EE-sheh/anyTendekai“A warm wish that he will be dependable, faithful and worthy of trust”/ten-deh-KYE/maleTeurai““Praise!””/teh-oo-RAI/femaleThankmore“A reminder to keep giving thanks”/THANK-mor/maleTichafara“We will rejoice; a joyful name expressing hope for happiness ahead”/tee-cha-FAH-rah/maleTichaona“We shall see.”/chee-chah-OH-nah/maleTinashe“God is with us”/tee-NAH-sheh/anyTinaye“We have God”/tee-NAH-yeh/anyTinorangarira“A name carrying the family’s promise to remember its loved ones and roots.”/tee-noh-rah-ngah-REE-rah/anyTinotenda“We give thanks to God”/tee-noh-TEN-dah/anyTito“A traditional Shona name carried through generations — its exact literal meaning isn't recorded, which is part of its story”/TEE-toh/maleTonderai“A loving reminder to remember someone or something important, especially after a loss.”/ton-deh-RYE/anyTongai“Be thankful; give thanks.”/ton-GAI/maleTrust“Faith, confidence, and a dependable heart”/TRUST/anyTrymore“An English exhortative name meaning “try more” or “keep trying.””/TRY-more/maleTsitsi“A compassionate and gentle spirit”/TSEE-tsee/anyTsungai“Have mercy; show pity.”/tsoong-GAI/anyTsuro“Hare; a lively and clever child”/TSOO-roh/anyTsvakai“Seek or search; an inquisitive child who looks for wisdom and purpose”/tsvah-KYE/maleTsvangirai“A traditional Shona name carried through generations — its exact literal meaning isn't recorded, which is part of its story”/tsvah-ngah-RAI/maleTungamirai“Lead and guide; a child with the promise of wise direction”/toon-gah-mee-RYE/male
U
V
Vadisai“Love; loving (commonly understood as an appeal connected with love).”/vah-dee-SAI/femaleVakai“Build; a hopeful wish that the child will create and strengthen good things”/va-KYE/maleVakurayi“Grow up or become great; a warm blessing for maturity and flourishing”/vah-koo-RAH-yee/maleVaraidzo“Joy, delight, or happiness.”/vah-RAI-dzoh/femaleVengai“Hate; despise.”/veh-NGAI/maleVhenekerai“Illuminate; light up.”/veh-neh-keh-RYE/anyVhurai“Open; open up.”/voo-RYE/maleVictory“A child associated with triumph and overcoming”/VIK-tuh-ree/anyVimbai“Believe; hold firmly to faith”/vim-BAI/anyVimbisai“One who gives strength, confidence, and reassurance”/veem-bee-SIGH/anyVimbiso“A promise of hope and a bright future”/vim-BEE-soh/anyVongai“Give thanks; be grateful”/von-GAI/any
W
Wadzanai“May love and mutual care surround you”/wah-dzah-NAI/anyWantmore“A hopeful wish for greater blessings and opportunities ahead”/WONT-more/anyWisdom“A wise child and a blessing of good judgment”/WIZ-dum/maleWitness“Witness; testimony or one who bears witness.”/WIT-nis/anyWonder“A child welcomed as a joyful wonder”/WUN-der/maleWorkmore“Work more; an exhortation or aspiration to work harder.”/WERK-more/male
Y
Z
Zhizha“Summer, a warm seasonal name for a child born during the summer season.”/ZHEE-zha/anyZivai“Understanding, knowledge, and wisdom”/zee-VAI/anyZivaishe“Know the Lord/God.”/zee-vah-EE-sheh/anyZivanai“May you be known, understood, and close to others”/zee-vah-NAI/anyZondai“Hate/dislike (plural imperative: “hate”).”/zon-DAH-ee/maleZorora“A child who brings peace, calm, and restful happiness”/zoh-ROH-rah/anyZororai“Rest; a gentle wish for peace, calm, and a settled life”/zo-ro-RYE/maleZororo“Comfort and relief after sorrow or hardship.”/zo-RO-ro/anyZuva“Sun; sunshine”/ZOO-vah/anyZvakanaka“A child associated with goodness and the blessings of life”/zvah-nah-KAH-nah/anyZvenyika“Of the nation or country; expressing belonging and devotion to one’s homeland”/zveh-nee-KAH/maleZvidzai“Learn; study (plural/polite imperative).”/zvee-DZAH-ee/maleZvikomborero“Blessings”/zvee-kom-beh-ROH-roh/anyZvinavashe“Those/things with the Lord; belonging to or associated with the Lord.”/zvih-nah-VAH-sheh/maleZvinoda“What is wanted/needed; that which is desired.”/zvee-noh-DAH/femaleZvinodai“What is desired/wanted; that which is wanted in this way.”/zvee-noh-DYE/female