Zulu names.
499 verified names from South Africa — each with its meaning, its sound, and its traditional spelling.
A
Abongile“They have given thanks; they have praised.”/ah-bon-GEE-leh/anyAkhona“There is; a warm affirmation of presence and belonging”/ah-KHOH-nah/anyAmahle“Beautiful ones”/ah-MAH-hleh/femaleAmandawethu“Our strength and power”/ah-mahn-dah-WEH-too/anyAmandla“Strength, power, and inner resilience”/ah-MAN-dlah/anyAndile“They have grown or increased”/ahn-DEE-leh/anyAnele“They are enough; there is contentment”/ah-NEH-leh/anyAphiwe“They have been given; by extension, “a gift.””/ah-PEE-weh/anyAsanda“We are increasing/growing; increase.”/ah-SAHN-dah/anyAvuyile“They are joyful”/ah-voo-YEE-leh/anyAyanda“They are growing and flourishing”/ah-YAHN-dah/any
B
Bafana“Boys.”/bah-FAH-nah/maleBambanani“Strength through unity, solidarity, and mutual support”/bam-bah-NAH-nee/anyBandile“They have increased and grown”/bahn-DEE-leh/maleBanele“They are enough; they bring a sense of fulfillment”/bah-NEH-leh/anyBawinile“They have won; a joyful name celebrating victory”/bah-wee-NEE-leh/femaleBekezela“Be patient and endure; better days will come”/beh-keh-ZEH-lah/anyBhambatha“A historic Zulu personal name, associated with courage and resistance”/bham-BAH-tah/maleBheka“Look; watch.”/BEH-kah/maleBhekani“Look, you all; watch, you all.”/beh-KAH-nee/maleBheki“Watch; look.”/BEH-kee/maleBhekimpilo“Look after life; watch over life.”/beh-kee-MPEE-loh/maleBhekinkosi“Look to the Lord/King.”/beh-kee-NKOH-see/maleBhekisisa“Look carefully; examine closely.”/beh-kee-SEE-sah/maleBhekithemba“Look to hope; look at hope.”/beh-kee-THEM-bah/maleBhekizizwe“Care for the nations”/beh-kee-ZEE-zweh/maleBhekokwakhe“One who looks after and protects his own”/beh-koh-KWAH-kheh/maleBhekumuzi“Care for and protect the homestead”/beh-kah-MOO-zee/maleBonga“Give thanks; praise”/BONG-ah/maleBongani“Be thankful; give thanks”/bon-GAH-nee/maleBonginkosi“Give thanks to the Lord”/bon-gin-KOH-see/maleBongiwe“She has been thanked; one for whom thanks are given”/bon-GEE-weh/femaleBongumusa“Give thanks for grace/mercy; praise grace.”/bong-oo-MOO-sah/maleBuhle“Beauty; goodness and loveliness”/BOO-hleh/anyBulelani“Give thanks and gratitude”/boo-leh-LAH-nee/anyBuselaphi“Where did you come from?”/boo-seh-LAH-pee/femaleBusi“Blessed; one who has been blessed.”/BOO-see/femaleBusisa“To bless; a blessing”/boo-SEE-sah/anyBusisiwe“Blessed; she has been blessed”/boo-see-SI-weh/femaleButho“Regiment; army; age-regiment.”/BOO-taw/maleBuyelaphi“Where are you returning from?”/boo-yeh-LAH-pee/maleBuyisile“A child who has brought someone or something back to the family”/boo-yee-SEE-leh/anyBuyisiwe“The one who has been brought back, a cherished return to the family”/boo-yee-SEE-weh/female
C
Cebile“Wealthy; rich.”/seh-BEE-leh/femaleCebisile“One who has advised or helped”/seh-bee-SEE-leh/anyCelani“Ask; make a respectful request”/cheh-LAH-nee/maleCelisiwe“She has been asked for; she was requested.”/seh-lee-SEE-weh/femaleCelumusa“Ask for mercy/grace.”/seh-loo-MOO-sah/maleCetshwayo“A historic royal name borne by King Cetshwayo of the Zulu kingdom”/ket-SHWAH-yoh/maleChuma“Wealth and prosperity; a hopeful wish for abundance”/CHOO-mah/any
D
Dabulamanzi“One who cuts through water; a bold and memorable historical Zulu name”/dah-boo-lah-MAHN-zee/maleDeliwe“She/he has comforted; comforter.”/deh-LEE-weh/femaleDingane“A historic royal name borne by a Zulu king”/din-GAH-neh/maleDingiswayo“A sought-after or much-needed person”/din-gee-SWAH-yoh/maleDinuzulu“A historic royal name borne by a Zulu king and symbolizing royal heritage”/dee-noo-ZOO-loo/maleDuduzile“One who brings comfort and reassurance”/doo-doo-ZEE-leh/femaleDumisani“Honor and praise; may you be praised”/doo-mee-SAH-nee/maleDumisile“She has brought honor and praise”/doo-mee-SEE-leh/female
E
F
Fana“Young boy.”/FAH-nah/maleFanele“Suitable, fitting, or appropriate.”/fah-NEH-leh/anyFanyana“Little boy; small boy.”/fah-NYAH-nah/maleFezile“Has accomplished; has achieved; has been fulfilled.”/feh-ZEE-leh/anyFikelile“Has arrived.”/fee-kee-LEE-leh/anyFikile“She has arrived; a welcomed new arrival”/fee-KEE-leh/femaleFikiswa“Has been caused or brought to arrive.”/fee-KEE-swah/anyFundile“Educated; learned.”/foon-DEE-leh/anyFundiswa“Has been educated.”/foon-DEE-swah/femaleFuneka“Needed; wanted.”/foo-NEH-kah/female
G
Gabisile“She has brought happiness and joy”/gah-bee-SEE-leh/femaleGabriella“God is my strength.”/gay-bree-EL-a/femaleGcinile“Has kept; has preserved.”/gchee-NEE-leh/femaleGcinisile“Has kept; has preserved.”/gkee-nee-SEE-leh/femaleGcinumuzi“Preserve/keep the homestead or household.”/gkee-noo-MOO-zee/maleGodide“A traditional Zulu name carried through generations — its exact literal meaning isn't recorded, which is part of its story”/go-DEE-deh/maleGrace“Grace, kindness, and God's generous favour”/GRAYS/femaleGugu“A precious treasure”/GOO-goo/any
H
Hlalisile“Has settled; has caused settling.”/hla-lee-SEE-leh/femaleHlanganani“Come together; unite.”/hlahn-gah-NAH-nee/anyHlengiwe“Redeemed; saved”/hlen-GEE-weh/femaleHleziphi“Where are the beautiful ones/things?”/hleh-ZEE-pee/femaleHloniphile“A respected and honorable woman”/hlaw-nee-PEE-leh/femaleHlonipho“Honor, respect, and dignity”/hlaw-NEE-poh/anyHope“A hopeful blessing and confident expectation”/HOHP/female
I
Impumelelo“Success and the joy of achieving one’s goals”/im-poo-meh-LEH-loh/maleInhlanhla“Good luck and fortune”/in-HLAHN-hlah/anyIsaiah“The Lord is salvation”/eye-ZAY-ah/maleIsibindi“Courage, bravery, and a fearless spirit”/ee-see-BEEN-dee/anyIsrael“One who strives with God; traditionally associated with perseverance and blessing”/IZ-ray-el/maleIthemba“Hope for good things to come”/ee-TEM-bah/any
J
Jabulani“Rejoice and be happy; a child who brings celebration”/jah-boo-LAH-nee/maleJabulile“She has brought joy and happiness”/jah-boo-LEE-leh/femaleJama“Historical name of Jama kaNdaba, an early Zulu king.”/JAH-mah/maleJohannes“The Lord is gracious”/yo-HAH-nes/maleJonah“A dove; a gentle name symbolizing peace and hope”/JOH-nah/male
K
Khanyisile“She has brought light”/khahn-yee-SEE-leh/femaleKhaya“Home; a child who brings the family together”/KHAH-yah/anyKhayelihle“Beautiful home.”/kha-yeh-LEE-hleh/maleKhethelo“Choice; selection.”/keh-THEH-loh/maleKhethiwe“The chosen one.”/keh-TEE-weh/femaleKhethukuthula“Choose peace.”/kheh-too-koo-TOO-lah/maleKholeka“Be credible; be believable.”/khoh-LEH-kah/femaleKholekile“Has become credible; believable.”/khoh-leh-KEE-leh/femaleKholiwe“Has believed; believed.”/khoh-LEE-weh/femaleKhulani“May you grow, thrive, and reach your full potential”/koo-LAH-nee/anyKhulekani“Pray”/koo-leh-KAH-nee/anyKhulekile“Has prayed; one who has prayed.”/khoo-LEH-kee-leh/femaleKhululekile“Free; liberated.”/khoo-loo-LEH-kee-leh/anyKhululiwe“Freed, released, or liberated.”/khoo-loo-LEE-weh/femaleKhumbulani“Remember us and keep us close in your heart”/khoom-boo-LAH-nee/maleKhumbulekhaya“Remember home.”/khoom-boo-leh-KHAH-yah/maleKhwezi“Morning star; a light that guides the way”/KWEH-zee/anyKuhle“Good, beautiful, or wonderful”/KOOH-leh/anyKwanda“Growth, increase, or it is increasing.”/KWAHN-dah/anyKwanele“It is enough; the family is complete”/kwah-NEH-leh/any
L
Langa“Sun; warmth, brightness, and life”/LAH-ngah/anyLangalibalele“The sun is shining.”/lah-ngah-lee-bah-LEH-leh/maleLibusiso“Blessing.”/lee-boo-SEE-soh/anyLihle“Beautiful; lovely”/LEE-hleh/anyLinda“Wait patiently; also, protect and watch over”/LEEN-dah/maleLindani“A hopeful child who waits for good things”/lin-DAH-nee/maleLindelani“Wait for us; a child whose arrival was lovingly awaited”/lin-deh-LAH-nee/anyLindelwa“Awaited, expected, or hoped for.”/lin-DEHL-wah/femaleLindiwe“The long-awaited one, joyfully welcomed home”/lin-DEE-weh/femaleLindokuhle“Expecting something beautiful and good ahead”/lin-doh-KOOH-leh/anyLisakhanya“Still shining brightly”/lee-sah-KHAN-yah/anyLiyanda“Growing and flourishing”/lee-YAN-dah/anyLondeka“A child surrounded by safety and protection”/lon-DEH-kah/femaleLondiwe“The long-awaited one”/lon-DEE-weh/femaleLondoloza“A strong guardian who protects what matters”/lon-doh-LOH-zah/anyLulama“Be well; recover; be healed.”/loo-LAH-mah/anyLungelo“Privilege, rightful place, and what is just”/loon-GEH-loh/anyLungile“Good, right, and virtuous”/loon-GEE-leh/anyLungiswa“Prepared, restored, and set right”/loon-GEE-swah/femaleLusanda“New; it is new.”/loo-SUN-dah/femaleLusizo“Help, assistance, or support.”/loo-SEE-zoh/anyLuthando“Love and affection”/loo-TAHN-doh/anyLuyanda“Growth is increasing”/loo-YAHN-dah/anyLwandile“The family has grown and flourished”/lwan-DEE-leh/anyLwandle“Ocean or sea; vastness and strength”/LWAHN-dleh/anyLwazi“Knowledge and understanding”/LWAH-zee/any
M
Mabutho“Regiments, warriors, or fighting units.”/mah-BOO-taw/maleMageba“A traditional Zulu name carried through generations — its exact literal meaning isn't recorded, which is part of its story”/mah-GEH-bah/maleMakhanya“One who shines and brings light to others”/mah-KHAHN-yah/maleMakhosazana“Princesses; a feminine name associated with princesshood.”/mah-khoh-sah-ZAH-nah/femaleMakhosi“Chiefs, kings, or rulers.”/mah-KHOH-see/anyMalandela“Follower; historically, Malandela was an early ancestor in the Zulu royal lineage.”/mah-lahn-DEH-lah/maleMalusi“Shepherd; one who tends or guides.”/mah-LOO-see/maleMandisa“Sweetness; a sweet one.”/mahn-DEE-sah/femaleMandla“Strength, power, and inner authority”/MAHN-dlah/maleMandlakazi“Great strength and power”/man-dlah-KAH-zee/anyMandlenkosi“Strength that comes from God”/man-dleh-NKOH-see/maleMangaliso“A miracle and a wonderful surprise”/mahn-gah-LEE-soh/femaleManqoba“Conqueror; one who overcomes.”/mahn-KOH-bah/maleMaphitha“A traditional Zulu name carried through generations — its exact literal meaning isn't recorded, which is part of its story”/mah-PEE-tah/maleMaria“A traditional Zulu name carried through generations — its exact literal meaning isn't recorded, which is part of its story”/ma-REE-a/femaleMavumengwana“A traditional Zulu name carried through generations — its exact literal meaning isn't recorded, which is part of its story”/mah-voo-men-GWAH-nah/maleMawande“May the family continue to grow and flourish”/mah-WAHN-deh/anyMayibongwe““May it be praised” or “let it be praised.””/my-ee-BONG-weh/femaleMbalenhle“Beautiful flower”/m-bah-lehn-HLEH/femaleMbali“Flower; beauty as it blooms”/M-bah-lee/femaleMbongeni“Give thanks”/m-boh-NGEH-nee/anyMbongiseni““Praise him.””/m-bong-ih-SEH-nee/maleMbusi“King; ruler.”/m-BOO-see/maleMbuso“Rule, leadership, and authority”/MBOO-soh/maleMbuyazi“A traditional Zulu name carried through generations — its exact literal meaning isn't recorded, which is part of its story”/mboo-YAH-zee/maleMbuyiselo“Restoration; something precious has been brought back”/mboo-yee-SEH-loh/maleMbuyiseni“Bring back to us; a name expressing restoration and family reunion”/m-boo-yee-SEH-nee/maleMcebisi“Adviser; one who gives counsel.”/m-tseh-BEE-see/maleMcebo“Wealth and prosperity”/m-eh-BOH/maleMduduzi“One who comforts and brings reassurance”/mdoo-DOO-zee/maleMfanafuthi“A child again; another child.”/m-fah-nah-FOO-tee/maleMfundisi“Teacher; instructor; also minister or preacher in a church context.”/m-foo-NDEE-see/maleMfundo“Education; learning.”/m-FOON-doh/anyMhlangana“A historical Zulu royal name, notably Mhlangana kaSenzangakhona; the root relates to meeting or coming together.”/mhlahn-GAH-nah/maleMhlengi“Saviour; one who rescues and protects”/m-HLEN-gee/maleMinenhle“Beautiful day.”/mee-nen-hleh/femaleMkabayi“A historic royal name associated with Princess Mkabayi and strong leadership”/m-kah-BYE/femaleMkhululi“Liberator; one who sets others free”/m-khoo-LOO-lee/maleMkhuseli“Protector; defender.”/m-khoo-SEH-lee/maleMluleki“Counsellor; adviser; guide.”/mloo-LEH-kee/maleMlungisi“One who puts things right”/m-loon-GEE-see/maleMncedisi“Helper; a person who supports and cares for others”/mn-cheh-DEE-see/maleMnotho“Wealth and riches”/m-NOH-toh/maleMnqobi“Victor; conqueror; one who overcomes.”/m-nkaw-BEE/maleMnyamana“The dark one; one associated with darkness.”/mnyah-MAH-nah/maleMpande“A historic royal name borne by a Zulu king and remembered for royal lineage”/m-PAHN-deh/maleMpendulo“Answer or response”/m-pen-DOO-loh/anyMpilo“Life.”/m-PEE-law/anyMpumelelo“Success, achievement, and prosperity”/mpoo-meh-LEH-loh/anyMshiyeni“Leave him; let him be.”/mshih-YEH-nee/maleMsindisi“Saviour; one who brings help and deliverance”/m-see-NDEE-see/maleMsizi“Helper and source of support”/m-SEE-zee/maleMthandazo“Prayer.”/m-tan-DAH-zoh/maleMthandeni“Love him dearly”/m-tan-DEH-nee/maleMthobisi“One who humbles; one who causes humility.”/m-toh-BEE-see/maleMthokozisi“One who brings joy and thanksgiving”/mt-koh-zee-SEE/anyMthunzi“Shade or shelter; a comforting presence”/m-TOON-zee/maleMuhle“Beautiful”/MOO-hleh/anyMusa“Kindness, grace, and goodness”/MOO-sah/maleMuzi“Home or homestead, a warm symbol of belonging”/MOO-zee/anyMuzikayise“His father's homestead/home.”/moo-zee-kah-YEE-seh/maleMuziwokholo“Home/homestead of faith.”/moo-zee-woh-KHOH-loh/maleMuziwokuthula“Home/homestead of peace.”/moo-zee-woh-koo-TOO-lah/maleMvelo“Nature; the natural world and the essence of life”/MVEH-loh/anyMvikeli“A brave protector who stands up for others”/mvee-KEH-lee/maleMvula“Rain; a hopeful sign of renewal and abundance”/MVOO-lah/maleMvuyane“A traditional Zulu name carried through generations — its exact literal meaning isn't recorded, which is part of its story”/mvoo-YAH-neh/maleMvuyisi“One who brings happiness and joy”/m-voo-YEE-see/maleMxolisi“One who brings peace or forgiveness”/m-khoh-LEE-see/maleMzilikazi“A historic Nguni/Ndebele royal name, commonly glossed as “the great path.””/mzee-lee-KAH-zee/maleMziwakhe“His home or homestead; a child who strengthens the family home”/m-zee-WAH-kheh/maleMzwandile“The family line has grown”/m-zwan-DEE-leh/male
N
Nandi“Sweet one; also a celebrated royal name in Zulu history”/NAHN-dee/femaleNathi“With us.”/NAH-tee/maleNcamisile“She has made things sweet or pleasant; a name of warmth and delight”/nchah-mee-SEE-leh/femaleNdaba“A historic royal name borne by a Zulu king and associated with noble ancestry”/n-DAH-bah/maleNdabezitha“A royal form of address, roughly “Your Majesty” or “your royal highness.””/ndah-beh-ZEE-tah/maleNdabuko“Origin; ancestry; that which is traditional/native.”/ndah-BOO-koh/maleNdlela“Path; way; road.”/NDEH-lah/maleNdodana“Son; little boy.”/n-doh-DAH-nah/maleNduduzo“Comfort and consolation”/n-doo-DOO-zoh/maleNdumiso“Praise; thanksgiving.”/n-doo-MEE-soh/maleNgenzeni“What have I done? A name expressing the difficult circumstances surrounding a birth”/ngen-ZEH-nee/maleNhlakanipho“Intelligence and wisdom”/n-khlah-kah-NEE-poh/maleNhlanhla“Good fortune, luck, and blessing”/n-HLAHN-hlah/anyNjabulo“Joy and happiness”/n jah-BOO-loh/maleNkanyezi“Star.”/n-kahn-YEH-zee/maleNkanyiso“Light; illumination.”/n-kah-NEE-soh/maleNkosana“Prince, young chief, or little lord”/n-koh-SAH-nah/maleNkosazana“Princess, young royal, or little lady”/n-koh-sah-ZAH-nah/femaleNkosi“Chief, lord, or honored leader”/n-KOH-see/maleNkosikhona“The Lord is here; the Lord is present”/nko-see-KHOH-nah/maleNkosinathi“The Lord is with us”/nko-see-NAH-tee/maleNkosingiphile““Lord, I am alive/well”; an expression of being kept alive or preserved by the Lord.”/nko-see-gee-PEE-leh/maleNkululeko“Freedom and liberty”/n-koo-loo-LEH-koh/anyNobandla“Of the assembly, congregation, or community; conventionally interpreted as “mother of the assembly.””/noh-BAHN-dlah/femaleNobantu“Of/with the people; conventionally “mother of the people.””/noh-BAHN-too/femaleNobathule“Associated with silence or quietness; conventionally “mother of the quiet ones/silence.””/noh-bah-THOO-leh/femaleNobuhle“A child associated with beauty and loveliness”/noh-BOO-hleh/femaleNobukhosi“Of royalty, kingship, or chieftaincy; conventionally “mother of royalty.””/noh-boo-KHOH-see/femaleNobungani“A woman of friendship and fellowship”/noh-boon-GAH-nee/femaleNobuntu“Mother of humanity, kindness, and good character”/noh-BOON-too/femaleNokhuleko“A prayerful one; prayer”/noh-khoo-LEH-koh/femaleNokubonga“A life surrounded by gratitude and thanksgiving”/noh-koo-BON-gah/femaleNokuhle“A beautiful one; a child surrounded by beauty”/noh-KOO-hleh/femaleNokukhanya“Light; conventionally “mother of light.””/noh-koo-KHAN-yah/femaleNokululeko“Freedom and the hope of living unrestrained”/noh-koo-LOO-leh-koh/femaleNokulunga“Goodness, virtue, and righteousness”/noh-koo-LOON-gah/femaleNokuphila“Life; living; conventionally “mother of life.””/noh-koo-PEE-lah/femaleNokuthokoza“With joy and happiness”/noh-koo-toh-KOH-zah/femaleNokuthula“Peace, calm, and gentleness”/noh-koo-TOO-lah/femaleNokuzithoba“A child associated with humility and modesty”/noh-koo-zee-TOH-bah/femaleNokuzola“Peaceful, gentle, and composed”/noh-koo-ZOH-lah/femaleNokwanda“Increase; growth; expansion.”/noh-KWAHN-dah/femaleNokwazi“Mother of knowledge and wisdom”/noh-KWAH-zee/femaleNoluthando“A child surrounded by love”/noh-loo-TAHN-doh/femaleNolwazi“Mother of knowledge; wise and well-informed”/noh-LWAH-zee/femaleNomagugu“A woman of treasures; precious and treasured”/noh-mah-GOO-goo/femaleNomalanga“Of the day(s), sunlight, or daylight; conventionally “mother of the day(s).””/noh-mah-LAHN-gah/femaleNomandla“Mother of strength; a name wishing courage and inner power”/nom-MUN-dlah/femaleNombuso“Mother of the kingdom, governance, or authority.”/nom-BOO-soh/femaleNomcebo“Mother of wealth or abundance.”/nom-TSEH-boh/femaleNomfihlo“Mother of a secret; associated with secrecy or mystery.”/nohm-FEEH-loh/femaleNomfundo“Mother of education, learning, or knowledge.”/nom-FOON-doh/femaleNomkhosi“Associated with celebration and ceremony”/nohm-KOH-see/femaleNomonde“Mother of patience; a patient and steady person”/noh-MOHN-deh/femaleNompilo“Mother of life; a beautiful affirmation of vitality and blessing”/nom-PEE-loh/femaleNompumelelo“A life marked by success and prosperity”/nom-poo-meh-LEH-loh/femaleNomsa“With kindness and grace”/NOHM-sah/femaleNomsebenzi“Mother of work or labour.”/nohm-BEHN-zee/femaleNomthandazo“A child welcomed with prayer and spiritual hope”/nom-tahn-DAH-zoh/femaleNomusa“Kindness and grace”/noh-MOO-sah/femaleNomvelo“Mother of nature or creation; a name honoring the natural world and origins”/nom-VEH-loh/femaleNomvula“Mother of rain; a blessing of life-giving rain”/noh-MVOO-lah/femaleNomzamo“Mother of effort, striving, or struggle.”/nohm-ZAH-moh/femaleNondumiso“One who has praise”/non-doo-MEE-soh/femaleNongalaza“A distinguished historical Zulu name associated with courage and military leadership”/non-gah-LAH-zah/maleNonhlanhla“One who has good fortune”/non-HLAHN-hlah/femaleNonhle“Beautiful one; mother of beauty.”/NOHN-hleh/femaleNonkululeko“Mother of freedom or liberation.”/non-koo-loo-LEH-koh/femaleNontando“Mother of love.”/non-TAN-doh/femaleNontle“Beautiful one; mother of beauty.”/non-tleh/femaleNontobeko“Mother of humility, meekness, or obedience.”/non-toh-BEH-koh/femaleNontokozo“With joy and happiness”/noh-n-toh-KOH-zoh/femaleNosipho“One who has a gift”/noh-SEE-poh/femaleNosizwe“Mother of the nation.”/noh-SEE-zweh/femaleNothando“A child born into love”/noh-TAHN-doh/femaleNothembeka“Mother of trust; trustworthy and dependable”/noh-tem-BEH-kah/femaleNothembi“Mother of hope.”/noh-THEM-bee/femaleNothile“Prosperous or wealthy one.”/noh-TEE-leh/femaleNothula“With peace; peaceful one”/noh-TOO-lah/femaleNoxolo“Mother of peace; one who brings reconciliation”/noh-KHOH-loh/femaleNqobile“One who overcomes and is victorious”/n-koh-BEE-leh/anyNqobizitha“A courageous conqueror who overcomes every enemy”/n-koh-bee-ZEE-tah/maleNqobizizwe“A strong and victorious person destined to overcome great challenges”/n-koh-bee-ZEE-zweh/maleNsizwa“Young man; a name celebrating youthful strength and promise”/nsee-ZWAH/maleNtando“Will, desire, purpose, or love.”/n-TAHN-doh/anyNtandoyenkosi“The will or desire of the Lord/God.”/n-tahn-doh-yen-KOH-see/anyNtandoyesizwe“The will or desire of the nation.”/n-tahn-doh-yeh-SEE-zweh/anyNtokozo“A joyful, happy child”/n-toh-KOH-zoh/anyNtombenhle“Beautiful girl or beautiful daughter.”/ntohm-BEHN-hleh/femaleNtombi“Girl; daughter; young woman.”/ntohm-BEE/femaleNtombifuthi“A girl again, warmly welcomed as another daughter in the family”/ntom-bee-FOO-tee/femaleNtombikayise“Father’s girl; a beloved daughter with a strong family bond”/ntom-bee-kah-YEE-seh/femaleNtombizodwa“The only girl in the family”/ntom-bee-ZOH-dwah/femaleNtshingwayo“Historical Zulu male name, notably borne by Ntshingwayo kaMahole; a secure literal lexical meaning is not established.”/ntshing-GWAH-yoh/maleNtuthuko“Progress, development, and flourishing”/n-too-TOO-koh/male
P
Phakamani“Rise to greatness and make a strong mark in the world”/pah-kah-MAH-nee/malePhakamile“Has risen; has been raised or elevated.”/pah-kah-MEE-leh/femalePhakamisa“Raise up; lift up.”/pah-kah-MEE-sah/malePhakamiso“An uplifting or raising up; one who brings encouragement”/pah-kah-MEE-soh/anyPhaphama“Awaken to life and opportunity”/pah-PAH-mah/anyPhikelela“A reminder to keep going, no matter the difficulty”/pee-keh-LEH-lah/anyPhikelelani“Keep persevering and remain strong through every season”/pee-keh-leh-LAH-nee/anyPhila“Live fully and flourish”/PEE-lah/anyPhindile“She has returned, bringing renewed hope to the family”/pin-DEE-leh/femalePhindisiwe“Has been returned; has been restored.”/pin-dee-SEE-weh/femalePhumelela“May you succeed, prosper, and flourish”/poo-meh-LEH-lah/anyPhumelele“One who has achieved success and brings pride”/poo-meh-LEH-leh/anyPhumla“Rest; rest peacefully.”/POOM-lah/femalePhumlani“Rest; one who rests.”/poom-LAH-nee/malePhumzile“Has rested; is at rest.”/poom-ZEE-leh/female
Q
Qaphela“Be careful and wise; a protective wish for a child who moves through life safely”/kah-PEH-lah/maleQaphelani“Be careful and remain vigilant”/qah-peh-LAH-nee/maleQhakaza“Blossom; bloom.”/kah-KAH-zah/femaleQhamukile“One who has emerged or come into the world”/kha-moo-KEE-leh/anyQhawe“Hero, brave one, or champion”/GHAH-weh/anyQhawekazi“Heroine; a brave and admirable woman”/khah-weh-KAH-zee/femaleQhelile“Has moved away; is distant. Its use as a personal name is attested, but “distinguished” is not the direct lexical meaning.”/kheh-LEE-leh/femaleQhubeka“Keep moving forward with courage and determination”/koo-BEH-kah/anyQhubekani“A hopeful call to persevere and carry on”/koo-beh-KAH-nee/anyQinile“A strong and steadfast woman”/kee-NEE-leh/femaleQinisani“May you grow strong and help strengthen those around you”/kee-nee-SAH-nee/anyQinisile“Steadfast, strong, and true to herself”/kee-nee-SEE-leh/femaleQiniso“Truth; a truthful and sincere person”/kee-NEE-soh/anyQondile“Straight; right; correct; upright.”/kॉन-DEE-leh/anyQwabe“A historical Nguni/Zulu clan and personal name, associated with the eponymous ancestor Qwabe; it does not have a securely established literal lexical meaning.”/KWAH-beh/male
S
Sabelo“A share or portion, warmly suggesting a child who has been given a special place in the family”/sah-BEH-loh/maleSakhe“We build; a hopeful name for a child who helps create a strong future”/SAH-kheh/maleSakhile“We have built a strong foundation and come through challenges”/sah-KHEE-leh/anySakhumuzi“A child who strengthens the family and helps build a loving home”/sah-khoo-MOO-zee/maleSakhumzi“Build the home”/sah-khoo-MOO-zee/maleSamukelisiwe“She has been welcomed and warmly received”/sah-moo-keh-lee-SEE-weh/femaleSamukelo“Welcome or acceptance; a child lovingly received into the family”/sah-moo-KEH-loh/anySandile“The family has grown and become more plentiful”/sahn-DEE-leh/maleSandiso“Increase; augmentation; addition.”/sahn-DEE-soh/maleSanele“We are satisfied; our family is complete”/sah-NEH-leh/anySanelisiwe““We have been satisfied/contented,” or “we are content.””/sah-neh-lee-SEE-weh/femaleSbonelo“Example; model; illustration.”/sboh-NEH-loh/maleSboniso“One who shows or reveals”/s-boh-NEE-soh/anySebenzile““She has worked” / “has worked.””/seh-ben-ZEE-leh/femaleSenamile““We have enough” or “we are content/satisfied.””/seh-na-MEE-leh/femaleSenzangakhona“A historic royal name borne by King Senzangakhona of the Zulu kingdom”/sen-zahn-gah-KHOH-nah/maleSenzo“Deed, action, or achievement”/SEHN-zoh/anyShaka“A historic royal name associated with Zulu kingship and a powerful legacy”/SHAH-kah/maleShingana“A traditional Zulu name carried through generations — its exact literal meaning isn't recorded, which is part of its story”/shing-AH-nah/maleSibambene““We hold each other” / “we are united.””/see-bam-BEH-neh/anySibongile“We are thankful; we have given thanks”/see-bon-GEE-leh/femaleSibusisiwe“Blessed and richly favoured”/see-boo-see-SWEH-leh/femaleSibusiso“God’s blessing; a blessing”/see-boo-SEE-soh/maleSicelo“A request or heartfelt wish”/see-CHEH-loh/maleSidumo“Fame; renown; reputation.”/see-DOO-moh/maleSifiso“Desire or cherished wish”/see-FEE-soh/anySifundo“Lesson; learning; education.”/see-FOON-doh/maleSigananda“A traditional Zulu name carried through generations — its exact literal meaning isn't recorded, which is part of its story”/see-gah-NAHN-dah/maleSigujana“A traditional Zulu name carried through generations — its exact literal meaning isn't recorded, which is part of its story”/see-goo-YAH-nah/maleSihle“Beautiful or good”/SEE-hleh/anySikhumbuzo“A treasured remembrance”/see-khoom-BOO-zoh/maleSikhunyana“A traditional Zulu name carried through generations — its exact literal meaning isn't recorded, which is part of its story”/see-khoo-NYAH-nah/maleSilungile“All is well; a child who brings goodness and well-being”/see-loon-GEE-leh/anySimangaliso“A precious miracle and source of wonder”/see-mahn-gah-LEE-soh/maleSimelisiwe“We have been represented.”/see-meh-lee-SEE-weh/femaleSimelokuhle“We stand for what is good.”/see-meh-loh-KOOH-leh/anySimphiwe“We have been given this child as a precious gift”/seem-PHEE-weh/anySinakekelwe“We have been cared for / looked after.”/see-nah-keh-KEL-weh/femaleSindiwe“We have waited.”/sin-DEE-weh/femaleSinethemba“We have hope and confidence in the future”/see-neh-TEM-bah/anySinikeziwe“We have been given.”/see-nee-keh-ZEE-weh/femaleSinikiwe“We have been given her as a precious gift”/see-nee-KEE-weh/femaleSinqoba“Together, we overcome every challenge”/see-N-koh-bah/anySinqobile“We have overcome and triumphed”/see-n-koh-BEE-leh/anySiphamandla“We have strength/power.”/see-pah-MAN-dlah/maleSiphesihle“A beautiful gift and blessing to the family”/see-peh-SEE-hleh/anySipho“A treasured gift and blessing”/SEE-poh/maleSiphokazi“Female gift; gift daughter.”/see-poh-KAH-zee/femaleSiphumelele“We have made it through and succeeded”/see-poo-meh-LEH-leh/anySisipho“A child welcomed as a precious gift”/see-SEE-poh/anySithembekile“We are faithful and trustworthy”/see-tem-beh-KEE-leh/anySithembile“We have hoped; we have trusted.”/see-tem-BEE-leh/anySithembiso“A promise; one who can be trusted”/see-tem-BEE-soh/anySiyabonga“We give thanks”/see-yah-BON-gah/anySiyajabula“We are rejoicing because of this child”/see-yah-jah-BOO-lah/anySiyakhula“We are growing—an expression of hope for a flourishing life”/see-yah-KHOO-lah/anySiyamthanda“We love him or her”/see-yah-m-TAN-dah/anySiyamukela“A warmly welcomed child received with joy”/see-yah-moo-KEH-lah/anySiyanda“We are growing”/see-yahn-DAH/anySiyasanga“We embrace; we hug.”/see-yah-SAHN-gah/anySiyathokoza“We are happy and celebrating”/see-yah-toh-KOH-zah/anySiyazama“We are striving and persevering”/see-yah-ZAH-mah/anySizakele“We have been helped”/see-zah-KEH-leh/anySizani“Help us; a loving appeal for support and blessing”/see-ZAH-nee/femaleSizile“We have come/arrived.”/see-ZEE-leh/femaleSiziphiwe“We have been given; we have been gifted.”/see-zee-PEE-weh/femaleSizophila“We will live”/see-zoh-PEE-lah/anySizwe“Nation; belonging to the people”/SEE-zweh/maleSlindile“We have waited.”/sleen-DEE-leh/femaleSmangele“We are amazed; astonished.”/smah-NGEH-leh/femaleSomtsewu“A historical Zulu name/title notably associated with John Langalibalele Dube (uSomtseu), often glossed as 'father of the nation.'”/som-TSEH-woo/maleSthabile“We are happy.”/stah-BEE-leh/female
T
Thabani“Be happy and joyful”/tah-BAH-nee/maleThabile“She who is joyful and happy”/tah-BEE-leh/femaleThabisa“One who brings happiness and joy”/tah-BEE-sah/femaleThabisile“She has made us happy; has brought happiness.”/tah-bee-SEE-leh/femaleThabiso“Joy and happiness”/tah-BEE-soh/maleThandazile“She has been prayed for and welcomed with hope”/than-dah-ZEE-leh/femaleThandeka“Beloved; one who is worthy of love”/tahn-DEH-kah/femaleThandekile“Loved one; one who is loved.”/tahn-deh-KEE-leh/femaleThandiwe“Beloved and cherished”/tahn-DEE-weh/femaleThando“Love”/TAHN-doh/anyThandokuhle“Beautiful love”/tan-doh-KOO-hleh/anyThandoluhle“Love that is beautiful and good”/tan-doh-LOO-hleh/anyThandolwenkosi“The love of the Lord.”/than-doh-lwen-KOH-see/maleThandolwethu“Our love; a child who unites the family in affection”/than-doh-LWEH-too/anyThanduxolo“Love and peace”/than-doo-KHOH-loh/maleThemba“Hope and trust in a bright future”/TEM-bah/maleThembani“Keep hope and trust in the journey ahead”/tem-BAH-nee/maleThembeka“Trustworthy, faithful, and dependable”/tem-BEH-kah/femaleThembekile“Faithful, trustworthy, and true-hearted”/tem-beh-KEE-leh/anyThembelani“Have faith; trust and hope”/tem-beh-LAH-nee/maleThembelihle“Beautiful hope for a joyful future”/tem-beh-LEE-hleh/anyThembi“Hope; trust/faith.”/TEM-bee/femaleThembinkosi“Trust in the Lord; one who places faith in God”/tem-bin-KOH-see/maleThobeka“Be humble; one who embodies humility”/toh-BEH-kah/femaleThobile“Humble; one who has become humble.”/toh-BEE-leh/femaleThokoza“Be happy and celebrate”/toh-KOH-zah/anyThokozani“Rejoice; may this child bring happiness”/toh-koh-ZAH-nee/maleThokozile“She has brought happiness and celebration”/toh-koh-ZEE-leh/femaleThula“Quiet, calm, and peaceful”/TOO-lah/anyThulani“Be peaceful and gentle”/too-LAH-nee/maleThuli“Quiet one; be quiet.”/TOO-lee/femaleThulile“Peaceful, quiet, and gentle”/too-LEE-leh/femaleThulisile“She has become calm and peaceful”/too-lee-SEE-leh/femaleThuluxolo“Peaceful and calm”/too-loo-KHOH-loh/any
V
Vikizitha“Avoid enemies; evade enemies.”/vee-kee-ZEE-thah/maleVukani“Wake up; rise with purpose”/voo-KAH-nee/maleVukile“Awakened; one who has risen”/voo-KEE-leh/maleVumani“Agree; consent.”/voo-MAH-nee/maleVumile“Has agreed; has consented.”/voo-MEE-leh/anyVusile“Has come to life; has revived/awakened.”/voo-SEE-leh/anyVusisiwe“She has been blessed.”/voo-see-SEE-weh/femaleVusizwe“Revive the people and carry the family’s future forward”/voo-see-ZWEH/maleVusumusa“Awaken kindness, mercy, or grace.”/voo-soo-MOO-sah/maleVusumuzi“Revive and restore the homestead”/voo-soo-MOO-zee/maleVuyani“Rejoice and be glad”/voo-YAH-nee/anyVuyiswa“She has been made happy; a name celebrating joy and gladness”/voo-YEE-swah/femaleVuyo“Joy; happiness.”/VOO-yaw/any
W
X
Y
Z
Zakhele“A self-reliant person who builds a strong future”/zah-KHEH-leh/anyZama“Try; make an effort.”/ZAH-mah/anyZamani“Try (plural); make an effort.”/zah-MAH-nee/maleZamantungwa“A historic Zulu female personal name, conventionally understood as referring to striving for the Ntungwa/Zulu people.”/zah-mahn-TOONG-wah/femaleZamile“She has tried; she has made an effort.”/zah-MEE-leh/femaleZamukelisiwe“She has been welcomed or received; a name celebrating a warmly embraced child”/zah-moo-keh-lee-SEE-weh/femaleZamukeliswa“She is being welcomed/received; she has been welcomed.”/zah-moo-keh-LEE-swah/femaleZandile“The family has grown; there are more of us now”/zahn-DEE-leh/femaleZandisiwe“They have been increased.”/zahn-dee-SWEE-weh/femaleZanele“The family has enough; this child completes us”/zah-NEH-leh/femaleZibhebhu“A traditional Zulu name carried through generations — its exact literal meaning isn't recorded, which is part of its story”/zee-BHEH-bhoo/maleZibuse“Rule yourself; govern yourself.”/zee-BOO-seh/maleZikhona“They are present; they have arrived”/zee-KHOH-nah/anyZimbali“Flowers; flourishing beauty and abundance”/zeem-BAH-lee/anyZimeleni“Stand up for yourselves.”/zee-meh-LEH-nee/maleZimisele“Determined, focused, and ready to reach great goals”/zee-mee-SEH-leh/anyZinhle“Beautiful ones; beautiful child”/ZIN-hleh/femaleZinikele“Devoted; dedicated; having devoted oneself.”/zee-nee-KEH-leh/anyZithulele“Keep quiet; be silent.”/zee-too-LEH-leh/maleZiyanda“They are increasing; they are growing.”/zee-YAHN-dah/anyZodwa“Only one or unique”/ZOH-dwah/femaleZolile“Calm and peaceful”/zoh-LEE-leh/anyZonke“All; everything.”/ZON-keh/femaleZukile“Has risen; a child who rises to meet life with strength”/zoo-KEE-leh/maleZukisa“Bring glory and honour”/zoo-KEE-sah/anyZuko“Glory; a bright wish for honour and distinction”/ZOO-koh/maleZwelakhe“His nation/country; of his land.”/zweh-LAH-kheh/maleZwelethu“Our country or homeland”/zweh-LEH-too/anyZweli“Nation/country (from izwe).”/ZWEH-lee/maleZwelibanzi“The nation/country is broad or vast.”/zweh-lee-BAHN-zee/maleZwelithini“What does the nation say?”/zweh-lee-TEE-nee/maleZwelonke“The whole nation; unity and wholeness”/zweh-LON-keh/maleZwide“Broad; wide; expansive.”/ZWEE-deh/male