Wolof names.
478 verified names from Senegal and Gambia — each with its meaning, its sound, and its traditional spelling.
A
Abbas“Stern or frowning; Abbas is also an Arabic name associated with a lion.”/ab-BAS/maleAbdallah“Servant of God”/ab-DAL-lah/maleAbdelaziz“Servant of the Mighty or Powerful One (al-Aziz).”/ab-del-ah-ZEEZ/maleAbdelbasit“Servant of the Opener or Expander (al-Basit).”/ab-del-BAH-sit/maleAbdelghani“Servant of the Self-Sufficient or All-Rich One (al-Ghaniyy).”/ab-del-GHAH-nee/maleAbdelhamid“Servant of the Praiseworthy”/ab-del-ha-MEED/maleAbdelkader“Servant of the All-Powerful”/ab-del-KAH-der/maleAbdelmalik“Servant of the King, expressing devotion and dignified character”/ab-del-MA-leek/maleAbdelmounim“Servant of the Bestower of Blessings, a warm wish for a life filled with grace”/ab-del-MOO-neem/maleAbdelwahab“Servant of the Great Bestower (al-Wahhab).”/ab-del-wa-HAB/maleAbderrahim“A devoted servant of the Most Merciful”/ab-deh-rah-HEEM/maleAbderrazak“Servant of the Provider or Sustainer (al-Razzaq).”/ab-der-ra-ZAK/maleAbdesselam“Servant of Peace (al-Salam).”/ab-des-seh-LAM/maleAbdou“Servant of God”/ab-DOO/maleAbdoulaye“Servant of God”/ab-doo-LIE/maleAbdramane“Servant of the Most Merciful”/ab-drah-MAHN/maleAbsa“A traditional Wolof name carried through generations — its exact literal meaning isn't recorded, which is part of its story”/AB-sah/femaleAby“A traditional Wolof name carried through generations — its exact literal meaning isn't recorded, which is part of its story”/AH-bee/femaleAdama“A West African form of Adam, associated with “human being” or “humanity.””/ah-DAH-mah/anyAdil“A fair-minded and just person”/ah-DEEL/maleAdila“A fair-minded and just woman”/ah-DEE-lah/femaleAdja“A respected woman who has made the pilgrimage to Mecca”/AH-jah/femaleAdnan“An Arabic ancestral name, traditionally linked to Adnan, the forefather of the northern Arabs and often placed in the line of Ishmael.”/AD-nan/maleAhmadou“Most praiseworthy; a name honoring the Prophet Muhammad”/ah-mah-DOO/maleAicha“Full of life and vitality”/EYE-sha/femaleAida“Returning; a visitor or one who comes back.”/EYE-da/femaleAissatou“Living and full of life; the name of a revered early Muslim woman”/eye-sah-TOO/femaleAjjuma“Born on a Friday”/aj-JOO-ma/anyAkram“The most generous and noble-hearted”/AK-ram/maleAlassane“Handsome; good (from Arabic al-Hasan).”/ah-lah-SAHN/maleAlboury“A historic royal name associated with sovereignty, courage, and resistance.”/al-BOO-ree/maleAli“Noble, exalted”/AH-lee/maleAlima“Knowledgeable, learned”/ah-LEE-ma/femaleAlimatou“A wise and knowledgeable woman”/ah-lee-mah-TOO/femaleAlioune“Noble and exalted”/ah-lee-OON/maleAllarba“Born on a Wednesday”/al-LAR-ba/anyAlmamy“Imam; religious leader. The name is derived from Arabic al-imam and has long-standing West African use.”/al-MAH-mee/maleAltine“Born on a Monday”/al-TEEN/anyAlxamis“Born on a Thursday”/al-kha-MEES/anyAly“Noble and exalted”/AH-lee/maleAmadou“Most praiseworthy; a name honoring the Prophet Muhammad”/ah-mah-DOO/maleAmal“Hope for a bright and beautiful future”/ah-MAHL/femaleAmar“Long-lived; flourishing; a builder or cultivator (Arabic Ammar/ʿAmmar).”/ah-MAR/maleAmara“Building, cultivation, or flourishing (Arabic ʿAmara/Amara).”/ah-MAH-rah/maleAmath“Most praised; most commendable (a Senegalese rendering of Ahmad).”/ah-MAHT/maleAmeth“Most praiseworthy”/ah-MET/maleAmin“A trustworthy and faithful person”/ah-MEEN/maleAmina“Faithful, trustworthy, and safe in God’s care”/ah-MEE-nah/femaleAminata“Faithful and trustworthy”/ah-mee-NAH-tah/femaleAnas“A warm-hearted companion and friend”/AH-nas/maleAnouar“More luminous; brighter; most radiant (Arabic Anwar).”/an-WAR/maleAnsoumana“A West African form of Uthman/Osman, the name of the third caliph; the classical Arabic name is traditionally associated with a young bustard bird.”/an-soo-MAH-na/maleAnta“A tender, gracious woman”/AN-tah/femaleAnwar“More luminous; brighter; most radiant.”/an-WAR/maleArafat“A name associated with the sacred plain of Arafat and the pilgrimage to Mecca”/A-ra-fat/maleArame“A beloved and respected woman”/ah-RAHM/femaleArona“A traditional Wolof name carried through generations — its exact literal meaning isn't recorded, which is part of its story”/ah-ROH-nah/maleAshraf“Most honorable and noble”/ASH-raf/maleAsiya“A traditional Wolof name carried through generations — its exact literal meaning isn't recorded, which is part of its story”/ah-SEE-yah/femaleAsma“Arabic feminine name commonly interpreted as “loftier,” “more exalted,” or “sublime.””/AHS-mah/femaleAssane“A man of good character and courage”/ah-SAHN/maleAstou“A gracious and pure woman”/as-TOO/femaleAwa“Life and vitality”/AH-wah/femaleAwo“A Wolof female name/term associated with a first or senior wife in a polygynous household.”/AH-woh/femaleAyman“Blessed, fortunate, and held under a good sign”/AY-man/maleAymane“Blessed and fortunate”/AY-man/maleAymen“Blessed, fortunate, and auspicious—a joyful wish for good fortune in life.”/EYE-men/maleAyyash“Arabic male name meaning one who lives well, enjoys life, or is long-lived/lively.”/ay-YASH/maleAyyoub“A patient and steadfast prophet, associated with enduring faith”/EYE-yoob/maleAziz“Precious, honored, and beloved”/ah-ZEEZ/maleAziza“Precious, cherished, and beloved”/ah-ZEE-zah/female
B
Babacar“A man of integrity and honor”/bah-bah-KAR/maleBachir“A child whose arrival is joyful news for everyone.”/bah-SHEER/maleBadia“Arabic feminine name meaning distinctive, unprecedented, wonderful, or unique.”/BAH-dee-ya/femaleBadr“A luminous name wishing a child the beauty and radiance of a full moon.”/BADR/maleBahiya“Radiant, beautiful, and full of inner light”/ba-HEE-ya/femaleBalla“A traditional Wolof name carried through generations — its exact literal meaning isn't recorded, which is part of its story”/BAH-lah/maleBamba“A beloved and spiritually respected man”/BAHM-bah/maleBara“A traditional Wolof name carried through generations — its exact literal meaning isn't recorded, which is part of its story”/BAH-ra/maleBaraka“A blessing, expressing gratitude for the happiness and good fortune a child brings.”/bah-RAH-kah/anyBarke“Blessing and good fortune for the family.”/BAR-keh/anyBasim“Smiling and cheerful—a child who brings happiness”/BAH-sim/maleBasma“A radiant smile and a source of happiness”/BAS-mah/femaleBassirou“A perceptive and insightful person”/bah-see-ROO/maleBator“A traditional Wolof name carried through generations — its exact literal meaning isn't recorded, which is part of its story”/bah-TOR/femaleBayal“A traditional Wolof name carried through generations — its exact literal meaning isn't recorded, which is part of its story”/bah-YAHL/maleBaye“Fatherly, respected elder”/BAH-yeh/maleBecaye“A traditional Wolof name carried through generations — its exact literal meaning isn't recorded, which is part of its story”/beh-KAI/maleBernadette“French feminine form of Bernard, ultimately meaning “brave bear” or “strong as a bear.””/ber-nah-DET/femaleBigue“A cherished girl whose arrival was eagerly awaited”/bee-GAY/femaleBilal“Refreshing; associated with the first muezzin of Islam”/bee-LAHL/maleBilqis“A traditional Wolof name carried through generations — its exact literal meaning isn't recorded, which is part of its story”/BIL-kiss/femaleBineta“A blessed and virtuous woman”/bee-NEH-tah/femaleBinta“Daughter; from Arabic bint.”/BIN-ta/femaleBintou“Daughter; a West African/Senegalese form derived from Arabic bint.”/bin-TOO/femaleBiram“A venerable family name used for generations in Wolof-speaking Senegal”/bee-RAHM/maleBirame“A man of faith and distinction”/bee-RAHM/maleBocar“Senegalese form of Abu Bakr, an Arabic name meaning “father of a young camel.””/BOH-kar/maleBoubacar“West African form of Abu Bakr, an Arabic name meaning “father of a young camel.””/boo-bah-KAHR/maleBouchra“The glad news and happiness brought by a long-awaited child.”/BOOSH-rah/femaleBouna“A traditional Wolof name carried through generations — its exact literal meaning isn't recorded, which is part of its story”/BOO-na/maleBounama“A traditional Wolof name carried through generations — its exact literal meaning isn't recorded, which is part of its story”/boo-NAH-mah/maleBoury“A Senegalese feminine given name; no secure older etymology is available.”/BOO-ree/femaleBurhan“Arabic burhan: “clear proof,” “evidence,” or “demonstration.””/boor-HAAN/male
C
Cheikh“A respected religious scholar or elder”/SHAYKH/maleCherif“Arabic sharif: noble, honored; traditionally, a descendant of the Prophet Muhammad.”/sheh-REEF/maleCodou“A traditional Wolof name carried through generations — its exact literal meaning isn't recorded, which is part of its story”/koh-DOO/femaleCoumba“A classic traditional woman’s name, often paired with Samba”/KOOM-bah/female
D
Daba“A traditional Wolof name carried through generations — its exact literal meaning isn't recorded, which is part of its story”/DA-ba/femaleDado“A Senegalese feminine name, often used affectionately; no secure literal etymology is established.”/DAH-doh/femaleDame“A traditional Wolof name carried through generations — its exact literal meaning isn't recorded, which is part of its story”/DAH-meh/maleDamel“Wolof title for the ruler or king of Cayor; also used as a modern masculine given name.”/da-MEL/maleDaouda“David, a revered prophet in the Abrahamic tradition”/dow-DAH/maleDemba“A traditional name for a second-born son, honoring the family order and the bonds between siblings.”/DEM-bah/maleDiaratou“A traditional Wolof name carried through generations — its exact literal meaning isn't recorded, which is part of its story”/jah-rah-TOO/femaleDibeer“Sunday; used as a day-of-birth name.”/dee-BAYR/anyDiery“From Wolof dëkk-dëkk/jeeri (diéry): dry inland country or sandy upland, contrasted with the floodplain.”/jee-eh-ree/maleDieynaba“A woman of faith and devotion”/JAY-nah-bah/femaleDiomaye“Commonly understood in Wolof usage as connected with dignity, honor, or self-respect.”/joh-MY/maleDiongoma“Wolof jongoma/diongoma: a young woman or maiden, often with the connotation of a beautiful young woman.”/jon-GOH-mah/femaleDior“A traditional name from older Wolof-speaking families, now less often given”/JYOR/femaleDjibril“Arabic Jibril: Gabriel; ultimately “God is my strength.””/jee-BREEL/maleDoudou“Beloved, dear, or sweetheart; an affectionate name or pet name used for either sex.”/DOO-doo/anyDounya“The world; earthly life.”/DOON-yah/female
E
F
Fadel“Bounty, favor, grace; also excellent or virtuous.”/FAH-del/maleFadila“A virtuous and admirable woman”/fa-DEE-la/femaleFadima“A Senegalese form of Fatima/Fāṭimah, traditionally understood as “one who weans” or “one who abstains.””/fa-DEE-ma/femaleFadimatou“A West African/Senegalese form of Fatima/Fāṭimah: “one who weans” or “one who abstains.””/fa-dee-ma-TOO/femaleFaisal“Decisive judge; one who distinguishes or separates truth from falsehood.”/FAY-sal/maleFaiza“A successful woman who achieves great things”/FAI-za/femaleFallou“A common Senegalese male name, often associated with Arabic faḍl, “bounty” or “favor.””/FAH-loo/maleFama“A traditional Wolof name carried through generations — its exact literal meaning isn't recorded, which is part of its story”/FA-ma/femaleFanta“A joyful and prosperous woman”/FAHN-tah/femaleFara“A traditional Senegalese male given name; no securely established lexical Wolof gloss should be assigned.”/FAH-ra/maleFarah“Joy and happiness—the delight this child brings into the home.”/FAH-rah/femaleFarba“A dignified name linked with rank, public honor, and leadership.”/FAR-ba/maleFarhan“A joyful child who fills the family with happiness.”/far-HAHN/maleFarouk“One who distinguishes truth from falsehood; a decisive judge.”/fa-ROOK/maleFatiha““The Opening,” the title of the first chapter of the Quran.”/FAH-tee-ha/femaleFatima“One who weans; traditionally also interpreted as one who abstains.”/FAH-tee-mah/femaleFatou“A cherished form of Fatimah, the revered daughter of the Prophet Muhammad”/fah-TOO/femaleFatoumata“A form of Fatimah, honoring the revered daughter of the Prophet Muhammad”/fah-too-MAH-tah/femaleFawzi“Successful and victorious in life”/FAW-zee/maleFawzia“A girl destined for success and victory”/FAW-zee-ah/femaleFily“A traditional Wolof name carried through generations — its exact literal meaning isn't recorded, which is part of its story”/FEE-lee/femaleFirdaous“Paradise; the highest garden of Paradise.”/feer-DA-oos/femaleFirdaws“Paradise; the highest garden of Paradise.”/FEER-dows/femaleFode“Religious scholar, jurist, or Islamic teacher.”/FOH-deh/maleFouad“The heart, symbolizing inner feeling and courage”/foo-AAD/male
G
Gaawu“Born on a Saturday”/GAA-woo/anyGallo“A Senegalese male given name (also found in other West African communities); no dependable Wolof lexical meaning is established.”/GAH-loh/maleGana“A venerable traditional name from older Wolof generations”/GAH-nah/maleGhalib“One who meets challenges with courage and prevails”/GHAH-lib/maleGora“A Senegalese, especially Wolof, male given name; no certain lexical meaning should be assigned.”/GOH-ra/maleGorgui“A traditional third-born son’s name, carrying the warmth of family continuity and inherited belonging.”/GOR-gwee/male
H
Habib“Beloved and dearly cherished”/hah-BEEB/maleHabiba“Beloved; dearly loved.”/ha-BEE-ba/femaleHabibata“Beloved; dearly loved.”/ha-bee-BA-ta/femaleHaby“A common Senegalese feminine short form of Habiba/Habibata; “beloved.””/HAH-bee/femaleHachim“Arabic Hashim: one who breaks or crushes, traditionally explained as one who breaks bread for others.”/ha-SHEEM/maleHadiatou“Gift; present.”/hah-dee-ah-TOO/femaleHadiya“Gift; present. A differently vocalized Arabic form can also mean “female guide.””/hah-DEE-yah/femaleHafsa“Young lioness; little lioness.”/HAF-sah/femaleHajar“Arabic form of Hagar; also the Arabic word for “stone.””/HAH-jar/femaleHakim“A wise and discerning person”/hah-KEEM/maleHakima“A wise and discerning woman”/hah-KEE-mah/femaleHalim“A gentle person who responds with patience”/hah-LEEM/maleHalima“A gentle and patient woman”/hah-LEE-mah/femaleHamid“Praiseworthy and deserving of appreciation”/ha-MEED/maleHamza“Strong-hearted and brave”/HAM-zah/maleHanan“Tenderness, affection, and compassion”/hah-NAHN/femaleHanifa“Steadfast, sincere, and devoted to what is right”/hah-NEE-fah/femaleHarouna“Arabic form of Aaron (Harun).”/ha-ROO-na/maleHassan“Handsome, good, virtuous”/has-SAN/maleHawa“Eve, the first woman and mother of humanity”/HAH-wah/femaleHindou“A Francophone West African form of Arabic Hind, traditionally “one hundred camels.””/hin-DOO/femaleHussein“Good and beautiful; little handsome one”/hoo-SAYN/maleHuzayfa“Little sheep; an established Arabic Muslim personal name.”/hoo-ZAY-fa/male
I
Ibrahima“Abraham, a model of faith and devotion to God”/ee-brah-HEE-mah/maleIbtisam“A warm, joyful smile”/ib-tee-SAHM/femaleIdrissa“A traditional Wolof name carried through generations — its exact literal meaning isn't recorded, which is part of its story”/ee-DREE-sa/maleIhsan“Excellence, beneficence, or doing what is beautiful/good.”/ih-SAN/maleIkhlas“Sincerity and devotion in faith, with a pure and wholehearted spirit”/ikh-LAHS/femaleIkram“Honor, generosity, hospitality”/ik-RAHM/femaleIlham“Divine inspiration and a gift of insight”/IL-ham/femaleIlyas“Arabic form of Elijah and the name of a Qur’anic prophet.”/il-YAHS/maleImad“A strong support and guiding pillar”/ee-MAAD/maleImane“Faith—a steady foundation for a hopeful life”/ee-MAHN/femaleInaya“Care, protection, and loving concern”/ih-NAH-yah/femaleIshaq“A joyful name traditionally connected with laughter”/ish-HAHK/maleIslam“Submission or surrender to God; the name of the Islamic faith.”/is-LAM/maleIsmaila“Ishmael, a prophet whose name expresses that God hears”/ees-mah-EE-lah/maleIsra“Night journey, especially the Prophet Muhammad’s Night Journey.”/ISS-rah/femaleIssa“Jesus; a name associated with compassion and devotion”/EES-sa/maleIyad“A strong support and dependable presence”/ee-YAD/male
J
Jabir“A compassionate person who brings comfort and healing”/JAH-bir/maleJafar“Stream, rivulet, or small river.”/JAF-ar/maleJalila“Noble, glorious, and deeply honored”/ja-LEE-la/femaleJamal“Beauty and grace”/ja-MAHL/maleJambaar“A spirited name for a brave child who will earn respect through courage.”/jam-BAAR/maleJambar“A courageous warrior who stands firm and protects others”/jahm-BAHR/maleJamila“Beautiful in appearance, spirit, and character”/jah-MEE-lah/femaleJibril“Gabriel, the angelic messenger”/jib-REEL/maleJumana“A precious little pearl, treasured by the family”/joo-MAH-na/femaleJunaid“A young warrior or little army—evoking courage and steadfastness”/joo-NAYD/maleJuwairiya“A cherished name linked with a respected woman of early Islam”/joo-WAI-ri-ya/female
K
Kadir“Capable, strong, and equal to life’s challenges”/kah-DEER/maleKarim“Generous, noble, and kind-hearted”/kah-REEM/maleKarima“A generous and noble woman”/kah-REE-mah/femaleKawthar“The abundance and goodness of life”/KOW-thar/femaleKersa“A gentle virtue-name associated with good character, respect, and honorable conduct.”/KER-sa/anyKhadija“Khadijah, the respected first wife of the Prophet Muhammad”/khah-DEE-jah/femaleKhadim“A devoted servant, especially a servant of God”/khah-DEEM/maleKhadimou“Servant of the Messenger, expressing deep religious devotion”/khah-dee-MOO/maleKhadra“Arabic feminine name meaning “green,” “verdant,” or “the green one.””/KHAHD-rah/femaleKhady“A virtuous and respected woman”/KHAH-dee/femaleKhaira“A woman who brings goodness, generosity, and blessing”/KHAIR-ah/femaleKhaled“Everlasting and enduring”/KHAH-led/maleKhalifa“A successor entrusted with responsibility and leadership”/kah-LEE-fah/maleKhalil“A cherished friend and loyal companion”/khah-LEEL/maleKine“A warm, old-fashioned name still remembered among Wolof grandmothers”/KEEN/femaleKocc“A traditional Wolof name carried through generations — its exact literal meaning isn't recorded, which is part of its story”/kotsch/maleKorka“A traditional Wolof name carried through generations — its exact literal meaning isn't recorded, which is part of its story”/KOR-kah/femaleKumba“A girl born as one of a set of twins”/KOOM-bah/female
L
Laila“Night; poetic and serene as the night”/LAY-la/femaleLalla“A female name and Arabic/Maghrebi honorific meaning “lady” or “madam.””/LAH-la/femaleLamia“Arabic female name whose interpretation depends on the Arabic spelling: it may mean “shining/radiant” (Lami'a), while a related form can mean “dark-lipped,” a classical beauty epithet.”/LAH-mee-ah/femaleLamine“A gentle and devoted man”/lah-MEEN/maleLansana“A traditional Wolof name carried through generations — its exact literal meaning isn't recorded, which is part of its story”/lan-SAH-nah/maleLat“A dignified traditional name, especially familiar from older Senegalese generations”/LAHT/maleLat Dior“A historic name linked with one of Senegal’s most celebrated kings and with steadfast leadership.”/lat JOR/maleLingeer“A regal name for a girl, associated with queenship, grace, and high standing.”/leen-GEER/femaleLouise“French feminine form of Louis, ultimately meaning “famous warrior.””/loo-EEZ/femaleLubna“Arabic female name meaning the storax tree (a fragrant tree); it may also evoke its resin or fragrance.”/LOOB-nah/femaleLuqman“A name associated with wisdom and sound judgment”/LOOK-mahn/maleLutfi“Gentle, kind, and gracious in character”/LOOT-fee/male
M
Maba“A traditional Wolof name carried through generations — its exact literal meaning isn't recorded, which is part of its story”/MA-ba/maleMadi“Often understood as “rightly guided.””/MAH-dee/maleMadiop“A traditional Wolof name carried through generations — its exact literal meaning isn't recorded, which is part of its story”/mah-JOP/maleMadior“A traditional Wolof name carried through generations — its exact literal meaning isn't recorded, which is part of its story”/mah-DYOR/maleMagatte“A respected old-fashioned Senegalese name found among Wolof families”/ma-GAT/maleMahdi“Rightly guided and on a good path”/MAHD-ee/maleMahfouz“Protected and preserved—a tender wish for a child watched over throughout life.”/mah-FOOZ/maleMahir“Gifted, capable, and accomplished”/MAH-hir/maleMahmoud“Praiseworthy; praised.”/mah-MOOD/maleMaimouna“Blessed, fortunate, and surrounded by goodness”/my-MOO-nah/femaleMakane“A traditional Wolof name carried through generations — its exact literal meaning isn't recorded, which is part of its story”/ma-KAN/maleMakhtar“Chosen for a special and honored path”/makh-TAR/maleMalak“Angel.”/MAH-lak/femaleMalang“A traditional Wolof name carried through generations — its exact literal meaning isn't recorded, which is part of its story”/ma-LANG/maleMalick“King; a traditional Islamic name expressing honor and dignity before God”/mah-LEEK/maleMalika“Queen; female ruler.”/mah-LEE-kah/femaleMamadou“Praised and worthy of praise; a name honoring the Prophet Muhammad”/mah-mah-DOO/maleMame“A beloved elder or grandparent, and by extension a name that honors family memory and ancestors.”/MAHM/anyMamour“Prosperous, flourishing, and blessed with well-being”/mah-MOOR/maleMansour“Victorious and destined to overcome life’s challenges”/man-SOOR/maleMaodo“A great elder or honored leader”/MAH-oh-doh/maleMaram“Wish, desire, aim, or aspiration.”/MA-ram/femaleMareme“A classic Wolof-Senegalese woman’s name, gentle and dignified”/mah-REM/femaleMariama“Mary, a revered woman known for faith and devotion to God”/mah-ree-AH-mah/femaleMarietou“A Senegalese feminine form or diminutive based on Marie/Mariam; it has no separately established literal meaning.”/mah-ree-eh-TOO/femaleMarouf“A person known for kindness, generosity, and good conduct”/ma-ROOF/maleMarwa“A sacred hill in Mecca; also “flint stone” in Arabic.”/MAR-wah/femaleMaryam“A traditional Wolof name carried through generations — its exact literal meaning isn't recorded, which is part of its story”/MAR-yam/femaleMassamba“A traditional Wolof name carried through generations — its exact literal meaning isn't recorded, which is part of its story”/ma-SAM-ba/maleMatar“A classic devotional name long used by Wolof-speaking families”/ma-TAHR/maleMawdo“A great and respected elder”/MAW-doh/maleMbacke“A traditional Wolof name carried through generations — its exact literal meaning isn't recorded, which is part of its story”/m-BAK-keh/maleMbarka“Blessed, carrying blessing and good fortune”/m-BAHR-kah/femaleMbathio“A traditional Wolof feminine name; its older etymology is not securely documented”/mba-TEE-oh/femaleMbayang“A woman whose presence brings joy and honor”/m-BAH-yahng/femaleMbaye“A devoted and respected man”/m-BYE/maleMbissine“A documented Senegalese feminine name; no securely established literal meaning is available.”/mbee-SEEN/femaleMedoune“A traditional Wolof name carried through generations — its exact literal meaning isn't recorded, which is part of its story”/meh-DOON/maleMeryem“A traditional Wolof name carried through generations — its exact literal meaning isn't recorded, which is part of its story”/MEH-ryem/femaleModou“Praised and worthy of praise; a shortened Senegalese form of Mamadou”/MOH-doo/maleMody“Senegalese form of Muhammad; “praised” or “praiseworthy.””/MOH-dee/maleMohamed“Praised; praiseworthy.”/moh-HAH-med/maleMor“A traditional fourth-born son’s name, marking another welcomed branch of the family line.”/MOR/maleMouaz“Protected; safeguarded.”/moo-AHZ/maleMoubarack“Blessed—a child whose life is surrounded by good fortune”/moo-bah-RAHK/maleMoubarak“Blessed and favored with goodness”/moo-bah-RAHK/maleMouhamadou“Praised and worthy of praise; a name honoring the Prophet Muhammad”/moo-hah-mah-DOO/maleMoulaye“My lord or master”/moo-LAI/maleMouna“Wishes, hopes, or desires.”/MOO-nah/femaleMoussa“Moses, a prophet remembered for courage and faith in God”/MOO-sah/maleMoustapha“A chosen and honored person”/moos-TAH-fah/maleMuadh“Protected; safeguarded.”/MOO-adh/maleMubarak“A blessed child whose arrival brings happiness to the family.”/moo-BAH-rak/maleMunir“Radiant, illuminating, and full of light”/moo-NEER/maleMunira“Radiant and full of light”/moo-NEE-rah/female
N
Nabil“Noble, honorable, and distinguished”/nah-BEEL/maleNabou“A traditional Wolof name carried through generations — its exact literal meaning isn't recorded, which is part of its story”/NAH-boo/femaleNada“Dew, and the refreshing generosity it represents”/NAH-dah/femaleNadir“Rare; uncommon; exceptional.”/NA-deer/maleNadira“Rare, precious, and wonderfully exceptional”/na-DEE-ra/femaleNafi“A precious and worthy woman”/NAH-fee/femaleNafissatou“Precious, cherished, and exquisite”/nah-fee-sah-TOO/femaleNaima“Peaceful, gentle, and blessed with well-being”/N-EYE-mah/femaleNajah“Success, achievement, and the fulfillment of hopes”/NAH-jah/femaleNajat“Safety, deliverance, and freedom from harm”/na-JAAT/femaleNajib“Noble, distinguished, of good lineage.”/na-JEEB/maleNasir“A strong supporter who helps others triumph”/NAH-seer/maleNasr“Victory; Arabic-derived Muslim name also used in Senegal.”/NASR/maleNasra“A girl whose life brings help and victory”/NAHS-rah/femaleNasser“Helper, supporter, defender; Arabic-derived Muslim name used in Senegal.”/NAS-ser/maleNassima“Breeze, especially a gentle or fresh breeze; Arabic-derived name used in Senegal.”/nah-SEE-mah/femaleNassira“Female helper, supporter, or defender; Arabic-derived name used in Senegal.”/nas-SEE-ra/femaleNawal“Gift, bestowal, or benefit; Arabic-derived name used in Senegal.”/nah-WAHL/femaleNdack“Traditional Senegalese/Wolof feminine personal name; a reliable literal translation is not established.”/NDAHK/femaleNdate“A rare historical Wolof name remembered through notable women of Senegal”/NDAH-teh/femaleNdate Yalla“A historic royal name honoring one of the most renowned queens of Waalo.”/NDA-teh YAL-la/femaleNdella“A traditional Wolof name carried through generations — its exact literal meaning isn't recorded, which is part of its story”/n-DEL-lah/femaleNdeye“A traditional first-born daughter’s name, warmly associated with the beginning of a family’s next generation.”/n-JAY/femaleNdiadiane“A rare heritage name recalling royal lineage and leadership.”/n-ja-DYA-ne/maleNdiaga“A longstanding Wolof given name, warmly associated with an honored family elder”/NJA-gah/maleNdiaré“A traditional Wolof name carried through generations — its exact literal meaning isn't recorded, which is part of its story”/n-jah-REH/femaleNdiasse“A traditional Wolof name carried through generations — its exact literal meaning isn't recorded, which is part of its story”/NJAHS/maleNdiatou“A traditional Wolof name carried through generations — its exact literal meaning isn't recorded, which is part of its story”/n-JAH-too/femaleNdieumbeut“A traditional Wolof name carried through generations — its exact literal meaning isn't recorded, which is part of its story”/n-jum-BUHT/femaleNdiogou“A traditional Wolof name carried through generations — its exact literal meaning isn't recorded, which is part of its story”/NJOH-goo/maleNdioro“A traditional Wolof name carried through generations — its exact literal meaning isn't recorded, which is part of its story”/n-JOH-roh/femaleNdiouga“A traditional Wolof name carried through generations — its exact literal meaning isn't recorded, which is part of its story”/NJOO-gah/maleNdiouma“A traditional Wolof name carried through generations — its exact literal meaning isn't recorded, which is part of its story”/n-JOO-mah/femaleNdongo“Student, pupil, learner, or disciple.”/n-DONG-go/maleNene“A gentle, cherished family name traditionally associated with affection and tenderness”/NEH-neh/femaleNgone“A traditional second-born daughter’s name, celebrating her place in the growing family.”/ngoh-NAY/femaleNgor“A noble name for a child whose life is hoped to bring respect and honor.”/ngor/maleNguenar“A traditional Wolof name carried through generations — its exact literal meaning isn't recorded, which is part of its story”/nguh-NAR/femaleNjaajaan“A historic Wolof royal name associated with the founder of the Jolof Empire”/njaa-JAAN/maleNogaay“A traditional Wolof name carried through generations — its exact literal meaning isn't recorded, which is part of its story”/noh-GAI/femaleNoura“Light, illumination, radiance; Arabic-derived name used in Senegal.”/NOO-ra/femaleNourou“Light, brightness, and hope”/noo-ROO/maleNuh“Quranic Arabic form of Noah, the prophet.”/NOOH/maleNuman“Arabic male proper name; its etymology is variously linked to red/blood or the anemone, not “good judgment.””/NOO-man/male
O
Osman“A traditional Wolof name carried through generations — its exact literal meaning isn't recorded, which is part of its story”/OHS-mahn/maleOumar“Flourishing and long-lived; the name of a revered companion of the Prophet”/oo-MAR/maleOumou“A Senegalese form associated with Umm Kulthum, a respected early Muslim woman”/OO-moo/femaleOusmane“Uthman, the name of a revered companion and caliph of the Prophet”/oos-MAHN/maleOusseynou“A form of Husayn, conveying beauty and goodness”/oo-SAY-noo/male
P
R
Raby“Usually a Senegalese short form related to Rabia/Rabiatou, from Arabic Rabiʿa, “fourth” (feminine).”/rah-BEE/femaleRachad“Right guidance and sound judgment, a hopeful blessing for a thoughtful and purposeful life.”/rah-SHAHD/maleRacine“French “racine,” meaning “root.””/rah-SEEN/maleRafetou“Beautiful and lovely”/rah-feh-TOO/femaleRafiatou“From Arabic Rafiʿa/Rāfiʿatu, meaning “elevated,” “exalted,” or “high-ranking.””/ra-fee-a-TOO/femaleRafik“Arabic rafiq, “companion,” “friend,” or “comrade.””/rah-FEEK/maleRahim“Merciful and compassionate, reflecting one of God’s gracious qualities”/ra-HEEM/maleRahma“Mercy and compassion from God”/RAH-mah/femaleRahmatou“From Arabic rahma, meaning “mercy” or “compassion.””/rah-ma-TOO/femaleRaja“Hope and the expectation of good things to come”/RAH-jah/femaleRama“A Senegalese short form, often of Ramatoulaye/Rahmatullah-related names; it does not have a securely established independent meaning of “happiness” or “delight.””/RA-ma/femaleRamatoulaye“Mercy, compassion, and divine kindness”/rah-mah-too-LIE/femaleRania“Arabic Rāniya, “one who gazes intently” or “contemplative.””/RAH-nee-ah/femaleRashid“A wise person who chooses the right path”/rah-SHEED/maleRashida“A wise woman who chooses the right path”/rah-SHEE-dah/femaleRassoul“Messenger; an honored religious title”/rah-SOOL/maleRayan“Arabic Rayyan/Rayyān, “well-watered,” “lush,” or “full”; it is also the name of a gate of Paradise in Islamic tradition.”/RYE-ahn/maleRidwan“Arabic Riḍwān, meaning “contentment,” “satisfaction,” or “pleasure”; in Islam it is associated with God’s favor.”/rid-WAHN/maleRiyad“Gardens and flourishing green spaces”/ree-YAAD/maleRokhaya“A woman of dignity and spiritual beauty”/roh-KHAH-yah/femaleRokia“Arabic-origin form of Ruqayya; commonly explained as “rising” or “ascending.””/ROH-kee-ya/femaleRoukaya“Variant of Ruqayya, generally explained as “rising” or “ascending.””/roo-KAI-yah/female
S
Saad“Good fortune, happiness, and a life filled with blessing”/SAH-ad/maleSabir“A patient and steadfast person”/sah-BEER/maleSabira“A patient and steadfast woman”/sah-BEE-rah/femaleSadio“A traditional Wolof name carried through generations — its exact literal meaning isn't recorded, which is part of its story”/SA-dee-oh/maleSaer“A traditional Wolof name carried through generations — its exact literal meaning isn't recorded, which is part of its story”/SAH-er/maleSafietou“Pure and sincere; the name of a respected wife of the Prophet”/sah-fee-eh-TOO/femaleSafiya“Arabic Ṣafiyya: “pure,” “chosen,” or “sincere/intimate friend.””/sah-FEE-yah/femaleSafwan“Arabic Ṣafwān, commonly glossed as “pure/clear”; it also has a classical association with a smooth rock or stone.”/SAF-wan/maleSaid“A happy and fortunate child, received as a gift.”/sah-EED/maleSaida“A happy and fortunate girl whose presence brings delight.”/sah-EE-dah/femaleSaif“A courageous defender with a strong and steadfast spirit”/SAYF/maleSakina“A calm and peaceful presence”/sah-KEE-nah/femaleSalem“Arabic Sālim/Salem: “safe,” “sound,” “unharmed,” or “secure.””/SA-lem/maleSalif“Arabic-origin name meaning “one who came before,” “predecessor,” or “forebear.””/sah-LEEF/maleSalih“A good-hearted and upright person”/SAH-leeh/maleSaliha“A good-hearted and upright woman”/sah-LEE-hah/femaleSalim“A peaceful and whole-hearted person”/sah-LEEM/maleSalima“A peaceful and secure woman”/sah-LEE-mah/femaleSalimata“Peaceful, safe, and whole”/sah-lee-MAH-tah/femaleSaliou“Righteous, virtuous, and good-hearted”/sah-LYOO/maleSalma“Arabic Salmā: “safe,” “sound,” or “unharmed”; by association, peaceful.”/SAL-mah/femaleSalman“Arabic Salmān, generally associated with being safe, secure, or unharmed.”/SAL-man/maleSaly“A female name used in Senegal, often treated as a local form of Sally or as a shortened form of Salimata; no established meaning of “grace and affection.””/SAH-lee/femaleSamba“A cherished traditional name for a first-born son, linking him to the family’s continuing line.”/SAM-bah/maleSamba Laobe“A historical Wolof royal personal name, notably borne by Samba Laobé Fall, the last Damel of Cayor; it has no established literal meaning of “noble lineage.””/SAM-ba la-O-beh/maleSamia“Elevated, noble, and admirable”/SAH-mee-ah/femaleSamira“A warm and delightful companion”/sah-MEE-rah/femaleSara“A widely used Arabic/Hebrew female name meaning “princess” or “lady.””/SAH-rah/femaleSerigne“A religious guide, teacher, or respected elder”/seh-REENY/anySeydina“Our honored master and respected leader”/say-DEE-nah/maleSeydou“A respected master or noble religious person”/SAY-doo/maleSeynabou“A woman of faith and goodness”/say-nah-BOO/femaleSeyni“A traditional Wolof name carried through generations — its exact literal meaning isn't recorded, which is part of its story”/SAY-nee/maleShams“Arabic Shams: “sun.””/shahms/anyShihab“Arabic Shihāb: “meteor,” “shooting star,” “flame,” or “firebrand.””/shee-HAB/maleShuayb“A traditional Wolof name carried through generations — its exact literal meaning isn't recorded, which is part of its story”/SHOO-ayb/maleSidi“A respectful title expressing honor and reverence”/SEE-dee/maleSidy“A West African form of Arabic Sidi, an honorific meaning “my lord” or “master.””/SIH-dee/maleSiga“A traditional Wolof name carried through generations — its exact literal meaning isn't recorded, which is part of its story”/SEE-gah/femaleSira“A female name used in Senegal; it may be associated with Arabic sira/sirah, “life, conduct, account, or biography,” rather than “grace and dignity.””/SEE-ra/femaleSire“A traditional Wolof name carried through generations — its exact literal meaning isn't recorded, which is part of its story”/SEE-reh/maleSoda“A Senegalese female name, often treated as a local form related to Arabic Saada/Sa‘ada, “happiness” or “good fortune.””/SOH-dah/femaleSokhna“Lady or noble woman, often used as a respectful religious name”/SOKH-nah/femaleSophie“Greek-derived via French, meaning “wisdom.” It is used in Senegal but is not a Wolof-origin name.”/SO-fee/femaleSouad“Happiness, joy, and good fortune”/soo-AHD/femaleSoukeyna“A Senegalese form of Arabic Sukayna/Sukaynah, associated with calmness, tranquility, and peace.”/soo-KAY-nah/femaleSouleymane“A man devoted to faith and peace”/soo-lay-MAHN/maleSuhaib“Arabic Suhayb, traditionally understood as “reddish” or “reddish-haired”; it is also the name of a celebrated early Muslim companion.”/soo-HAYB/maleSuhayb“Arabic Suhayb, traditionally understood as “reddish” or “reddish-haired”; also the name of the Companion Suhayb al-Rumi.”/soo-HAYB/maleSultan“Arabic title and male name meaning “authority,” “power,” or “ruler.””/SOOL-tan/maleSumaya“A traditional Wolof name carried through generations — its exact literal meaning isn't recorded, which is part of its story”/soo-MY-ah/female
T
Tabara“A traditional Wolof name carried through generations — its exact literal meaning isn't recorded, which is part of its story”/TA-ba-ra/femaleTacko“A traditional Senegalese, especially Wolof, female given name; no standard literal translation is securely established.”/TAH-koh/femaleTafsir“Arabic tafsir, meaning “interpretation” or “Quranic exegesis.””/taf-SEER/maleTaha“An Arabic Quranic name formed from the isolated letters Ta-Ha; it has no securely established literal personal-name meaning.”/TA-ha/maleTahir“Pure-hearted and sincere”/TAH-hir/maleTalaata“Born on a Tuesday”/ta-LAA-ta/anyTalha“Arabic Talha/Talhah, the name of a kind of tree; it is also borne by the early Muslim companion Talha ibn Ubayd Allah.”/TAHL-ha/maleTalla“A traditional name borne by respected older men”/TAH-lah/maleTamim“Complete, whole, or fully formed—a lovely wish for a well-rounded life”/tah-MEEM/maleTamsir“A Senegalese male form related to Arabic tafsir, “interpretation” or “Quranic exegesis.””/tam-SEER/maleTarik“Arabic Tariq/Tarik, meaning “night visitor” or “one who comes by night”; in Quranic usage it is associated with a night star.”/TA-reek/maleTasnim“A heavenly spring and a source of spiritual refreshment”/tas-NEEM/femaleTening“A traditional Wolof name carried through generations — its exact literal meaning isn't recorded, which is part of its story”/teh-NEENG/femaleThierno“A religious teacher or scholar, used as a cherished devotional name”/CHER-noh/maleThione“A traditional Wolof name carried through generations — its exact literal meaning isn't recorded, which is part of its story”/tyohn/maleThioro“A traditional Wolof name carried through generations — its exact literal meaning isn't recorded, which is part of its story”/TYOH-roh/femaleTidiane“A man devoted to faith and spiritual service”/tee-dyah-N/maleTijani“A name honoring the Tijani spiritual tradition”/tee-JAH-nee/male
U
W
Wahab“From Arabic wahhāb: “bestower” or “generous giver”; often encountered in forms such as Abd al-Wahhab.”/wa-HAB/maleWalid“Arabic Walid: “newborn child” or “newly born.””/wah-LEED/maleWaly“A caring protector and guardian”/WAH-lee/maleWarda“A fragrant rose and a symbol of beauty”/WAR-dah/femaleWassila“Arabic wāṣila: “connection,” “means of approach,” or “one who joins/connects.””/wa-SEE-la/femaleWiam“Harmony, affection, and peaceful companionship”/wee-AHM/femaleWissam“Arabic wisām: “medal,” “decoration,” or “badge of distinction.””/wi-SAM/male
Y
Yacine“A Qur'anic name expressing closeness to the sacred scripture”/yah-SEEN/anyYama“A traditional Wolof name carried through generations — its exact literal meaning isn't recorded, which is part of its story”/YA-ma/femaleYande““Beloved” or “loved one.””/YAN-deh/femaleYasmina“A girl with the grace and fragrance of jasmine”/yahs-MEE-nah/femaleYasmine“Jasmine flower”/yas-MEEN/femaleYassin“The name formed from the Qur’anic letters Ya-Sin; it is a widely used male Muslim name.”/yah-SEEN/maleYassir“Arabic Yāsir: “easy,” “at ease,” or “prosperous”; also understood as “one who makes things easy.””/YA-seer/maleYatma““Orphan,” related to Arabic yatīm and its Senegalese usage.”/YAT-mah/maleYaye“A loving motherly presence”/YAH-yeh/femaleYerim“A traditional Wolof name carried through generations — its exact literal meaning isn't recorded, which is part of its story”/YEH-rim/maleYeurmande“Wolof yërmande: “mercy,” “compassion,” or “pity.””/yer-MAHN-deh/femaleYoro“A respected and cherished man”/YOR-oh/maleYounes“A revered prophetic name, the Arabic form of Jonah”/YOO-ness/maleYoussouf“Arabic form of Joseph, the prophet Yusuf; ultimately from Hebrew, commonly understood as “God adds/increases.””/yoo-SOOF/maleYoussoupha“Joseph, a prophet remembered for patience, integrity, and trust in God”/yoo-SOO-fah/maleYusra“Ease, facility, comfort, or prosperity.”/YOOS-rah/femaleYusuf“Arabic form of Joseph; ultimately “God adds/increases.””/YOO-soof/male
Z
Zahir“Manifest, evident, or outward; with a different Arabic spelling, it can mean bright or radiant.”/ZAH-hir/maleZahira“Bright, radiant, or shining; depending on the Arabic spelling, also “manifest/evident.””/za-HEE-ra/femaleZahra“Radiant, shining, and flower-like in beauty”/ZAH-rah/femaleZaina“Beauty, adornment, or one who is beautiful/adorned.”/ZAY-na/femaleZakaria“Zechariah, a prophet whose name celebrates God’s remembrance and care”/zah-kah-REE-yah/maleZakia“Pure, virtuous, innocent, or intelligent.”/zah-KEE-yah/femaleZayd“Growth, increase, abundance”/ZAYD/maleZeinab“Zaynab, a cherished name associated with respected women in early Islam”/ZAY-nab/femaleZiad“Increase, growth, and abundance”/zee-AAD/maleZinedine“Beauty or adornment of the faith/religion.”/zee-neh-DEEN/maleZiyad“Increase, growth, or abundance.”/zee-YAD/maleZohra“Radiant, bright, flower-like; also a traditional Arabic name for Venus.”/ZOH-ra/femaleZoubida“The choicest, finest, or best part; figuratively, an exceptional woman.”/zoo-BEE-da/femaleZubaida“The choicest, finest, or best part; figuratively, an exceptional woman.”/zoo-BAY-da/femaleZubair“Strong, brave, or wise; the name is also strongly associated with the early Muslim companion al-Zubayr.”/zoo-BAYR/maleZuleikha“A traditional Wolof name carried through generations — its exact literal meaning isn't recorded, which is part of its story”/zoo-LAY-khah/female