Afrikaans is a West-Germanic language spoken mostly in South Africa, Namibia, Zimbabwe, and Botswana. Although the language has Dutch origins, the language has evolved over the time. It is also inspired by Malay, Bantu, and Portuguese, which is why the Afrikaans baby names may include Spanish, French, English, and American names. Keep reading to find the right Afrikaan name for your baby that not only depicts their personality but also has an African-European touch to it. If you go through this list, you will have a fun time figuring out the origins of each name.
Afrikaans Boys Names With Meanings
1. Ade
Ade, meaning ‘royal’, falls in line with popular American names such as Jade.
2. Adem
Adem is the Afrikaans version of the Biblical name Adam, which means ‘red earth’.
3. Adiel
Parents looking for a unique animal inspired name can go for Adiel, which means ‘goat’. It’s entirely unheard of in America.
4. Adonis
A name with true blue masculine beauty, Adonis means ‘God of peace and love’.
5. Adriaan
Adriaan, meaning ‘from Adria’, is definitely a winning choice.
6. Aitan
Aitan is technically a variant of the Biblical name Ethan and means ‘strong or fights of possession’.
7. Ajani
Ajani, meaning ‘he who wins the struggle’, is one of the most inspiring names we’ve heard in recent times.
8. Ajayi
Afrikaans baby boy name Ajayi, meaning ‘born face down’, is generally given to baby boys who are born face down.
9. Alake
Alake, meaning ‘one to be honored’, is one of the coolest Afrikaans boy names in our opinion.
10. Amiri
Amiri, meaning ‘prince’, would make an excellent alternative to the common name, Amir.
11. André
This international form of Andrew has been familiar in Africa for decades. It means ‘man’.
12. Arno
Arno is a modern sounding Afrikaans name, meaning ‘eagle’.
13. Barke
Barke is classic, serious, cheery, fashionable, and sensitive, all at the same time. It means ‘blessings’.
14. Bash
Bash is an Afrikaans name, meaning ‘forerunner’. But it’s highly unlikely that American parents would pick it for their son because of its English meaning.
15. Bast
A name with great jazz, Bast means ‘of the city of Bubastis’.
16. Bayode
Bayode is a thoroughly positive and shining name, meaning ‘he comes with joy’.
17. Belay
Belay is a cool, windswept name, meaning ‘above or superior’.
18. Ben
Ben is usually used as a short form of Benedict and Benjamin, but stands strong on its own too. It means ‘son of’.
19. Bern
Apart from being a Swiss place name and a short form of Bernard, Bern also means ‘peace’ in the Afrikaans language.
20. Bokamoso
Bokamoso, meaning ‘the future’, is on the rise in South Africa and its nearby regions.
21. Christiaan
This Dutch variant of Christian makes a bold statement of faith.
22. Christo
Christo is the Afrikaans short form of Christian or Christopher and means ‘follower of Christ’.
23. Daniël
A perennial favorite in South Africa, Daniël means ‘God is my judge’.
24. Danté
Also associated with famous poet Dante Alighieri, Danté means ‘enduring’.
25. Dawie
The name Dawie is related to the Hebrew name David and means ’beloved’.
26. Dian
Dian is a feminine name, meaning ‘divine’, but is used for boys by Afrikaners.
27. Fabunni
Fabunni is a sophisticated Afrikaans name, meaning ‘God has given me this’.
28. Francois
Francois is an Afrikaans form of Francis and means ‘free man’.
29. Frederich
Dashing name Frederich is the Afrikaans of Friedrich and means ‘peaceful ruler’.
30. Gazali
Beautiful and uncommon name Gazali has its origin in the Arabic name Gazal and means ‘mystic’.
31. Gerhardus
Gerhardus, a variant of Gerard, may seem as a grandpa name, but it’s still preferred by several Afrikaners.
32. Gidea
Gidea is a form of Gideon, a Hebrew name which means ‘was neglected for long, but has started to climb now.
33. Hansie
Hansie has to be the coolest version of Johannes. It means ‘God is gracious’.
34. Heinrich
This traditional German name has now moved into the Afrikaans name pool. It means ‘home of the king’.
35. Helouise
Helouise is an ancient name with unclear derivation. It means ‘healthy or wide’.
36. Henrico
This appealing Afrikaans name can easily cross boundaries. It means ‘state ruler’.
37. Imka
Image: Shutterstock
Imka, the Afrikaans form of Ime, sounds like a continental classic. It means ‘water’.
38. Isabeau
Isabeau, a variant of Isabel, is renowned for its bearer Isabeau of Bavaria. It means ‘pledged to God’.
39. Jaco
This interesting twist of Jacob means ‘supplanter’.
40. Jacques
Jacques is a completely non-pretentious name, meaning ‘supplanter’.
41. Jaivyn
Jaivyn is a cheerful and friendly Afrikaans name, meaning ‘light spirit’.
42. Janco
Janco is the Dutch-Hungarian form of John and means ‘Jehovah has been gracious’.
43. Jaquan
Jaquan, meaning ‘loving or good spirit’, also happens to be a Hebrew name, meaning ‘raised by Yahweh’.
44. Jengo
Jengo is an Afrikaans name, meaning ‘one with a reddish complexion’.
45. Johan
Johan, pronounced as ‘yo-Han’, means ‘God is gracious’.
46. Junior
While the rest of the world uses Junior as the nickname, South Africans prefer it as a first name. It means ‘young’.
47. Kabili
Kabili, meaning ‘possession’, will definitely get loads of attention once it surfaces into the mainstream.
48. Kai
If you have a water sign baby, name him Kai, which means ‘sea’.
49. Kaikara
Kaikara, originating in the Ugandan language, is the traditional name of a God.
50. Kaikura
Kaikura is actually an Afrikaans word for ‘ground squirrel’, but is used as a baby name too.
51. Kamogelo
Kamogelo is a soft and sensitive name heard widely in Africa. It means ‘acceptance’.
52. Kian
Kian is a friendly version of the name Cian, meaning ‘ancient’.
53. Kores
This form of Cyrus has a down-home image, which makes it stand out from other names. It means ‘throne’.
54. Lateef
Parents who want their children to grow up into mature and civilized adults can consider the name Lateef, which means ‘civilized’.
55. Leeto
For travel loving parents, Leeto, meaning ‘journey’, would be perfect.
56. Lencho
If you’re looking for an alternative to Leo, you can consider Lencho, which means ‘lion’.
57. Lethabo
Lethabo, meaning ‘joy’, will definitely fill your son’s life with happiness.
58. Lodewikus
This spelling of Lodewikus, the Afrikaans form of Ludovicus, is inspired by the Dutch spelling Lodewijk. It means ‘war or battle’.
59. Lolonyo
The meaning of Lolonyo is ‘love is beautiful’. And, this is indeed beautiful.
60. Louw
This nickname of Lodewikus, meaning ‘war or battle’, is also used as a first name by the Afrikaners.
61. Luan
The name Luan means ‘lion’ in Afrikaans and ‘justice, fair, transparent’ in Vietnamese.
62. Luca
Luca is a charming and venerable name, meaning ‘man from Lucania’.
63. Maghiel
Maghiel is derived from Machiel, the Dutch form of Michael, meaning ‘Who is like God?’
64. Mattys
Mattys, a form of Matthis, has survived the modern times solely because of Afrikaners.
65. Mpho
Cutting edge parents are sure to love this name, meaning ‘gift’.
66. Nelius
Nelius is the Afrikaans form of Cornelius and means ‘horn’.
67. Philippus
If you’ve always wanted an uncommon form of Philip, you can go for Philippus, meaning ‘lover of horse’.
68. Ricus
The name Ricus is an English name meaning ‘sovereign ruler’.
69. Ruan
Ruan is believed to be either a combination of Rudolf and Johan or a form of Ruadhan.
70. Ruben
This variation of Rueben is way more popular than the original. It means ‘behold, a son’.
71. Rylond
Rylond is Afrikaans spelling for Reynold and means ‘counselor or ruler’.
72. Sebastian
One of the most used names in South Africa, Sebastian means ‘person from the ancient city of Sebasta’.
73. Shakir
Shakir is an Arabic origin name, meaning ‘grateful’.
74. Thys
Thys is equivalent to the name Thijs, which means ‘gift of Yahweh’.
75. Tinus
Tinus is used as a short form for names such as Martinus and Constantinus.
76. Tjaart
Tjaart is a variant of Tjaard and means ‘people watcher’. A famous bearer of this name is the South African professional golfer Tjaart van der Walt.
77. Tyrese
A famous Afrikaans name, Tyrese means ‘talented leader of the well-being’.
78. Unys
This moniker comes from the word Denuys.
79. Upendo
Image: IStock
This Afrikaans moniker signifies the most powerful emotion in the world – ‘love’.
80. Wasaki
If you’re cool with strong meaning names, go for Wasaki, which means ‘the enemy’.
Quick fact81. Wikus
This name is generally used as a nickname for Lodewikus.
82. Yaro
Yaro, meaning ‘son’, is used extensively for baby boys by Afrikaners.
83. Yerodin
Parents who want their children to be academically brilliant can name them Yerodin, which means ‘studious’.
84. Zander
Zander, a diminutive of Alexander, has been on the rise as a standalone name. It means ‘defending men’.
85. Zayden
Zayden, a modern invented moniker, is one of the fastest climbing names.
86. Zea
Derived from Hebrew, Zea is an ancient male name, meaning ‘light’.
Afrikaans Girl Names And Their Meanings
87. Aba
Aba is an Afrikaans baby girl name given to ‘girls born on Thursday’.
88. Abebi
Abebi is a traditional Afrikaans name, meaning ‘we asked and got her’.
89. Abina
The name Abina means ‘born on Tuesday’.
90. Adelheid
Adelheid is the Dutch form of Adelaide and means ‘nobility’.
91. Adowa
The Afrikaans name Adowa is equivalent to the English name Adelaide. It means ‘noble’.
92. Agetha
Agetha is the Dutch form of Agatha and means ‘good woman’.
93. Aia
Aia could be a diminutive of several names, but it’s a legit name of the Afrikaans and means ‘eternal mother’.
94. Akpena
The name Akpena, meaning ‘thanks to God’, is chosen by parents to thank the Almighty for their baby girl.
95. Aletta
Aletta is the Afrikaans form of the Greek name Alethea and means ‘truth’.
96. Alizea
This distinct moniker is originally a form of Hebrew name Aliza, meaning ‘joyful’.
97. Amahle
Honor your ancestors by naming your daughter Amahle, which means ‘the ancestors are here’.
98. Amogelang
If you want your daughter to be a welcoming woman, name her Amogelang, which means ‘welcoming.
99. Amore
A romantic name in the truest sense, Amore means ‘love’.
100. Andrietta
If you want a long and elegant name for your daughter, pick Andrietta, a variant of Andrea, which means ‘strong and manly’.
101. Aneke
This graceful moniker is the Dutch and Afrikaans diminutive of Anna and means ‘grace’.
102. Anika
Anika, meaning ‘sweet-faced’, is a sweet name too.
Trivia103. Anja
Anja is the Afrikaans variant of Anne and means ‘grace’.
104. Annalie
The musical and slightly unusual form of Hanna means ‘grace’.
105. Anneline
Anneline is the diminutive of Anne, which was once common in the French territory, but is now an Afrikaans name.
106. Arabella
This flighty and happy go lucky name will add a bright aura to any girl’s day. It means ‘yielding to prayer’.
107. Ava
The simplicity and charm of Ava are just hard to overlook. It means ‘life’.
108. Azelle
Azelle is the feminine form of the Hebrew name Azel and means ‘reserved’.
109. Aziza
Aziza is the female form of the Arabic name Aziz and means ‘precious’.
110. Behati
Behati Prinsloo, the Namibian supermodel, introduced this Afrikaans variation of Beatrice to the world. It means ‘she who brings happiness’.
111. Berhane
Berhane is a lilting and rhythmic Afrikaans name, meaning ‘my light’.
112. Betje
Betje is a Biblical name, meaning ‘devoted to God’.
113. Bibi
The name Bibi is often reserved for the daughter of the king. It means ‘lady or grandmother’.
114. Brunelda
Brunelda, the Afrikaans form of Brunilda, is frequently used in South Africa. It means ‘armor or protection’.
115. Cazimira
Cazimira is the feminization of Casimir and means ‘destroyer of peace’. That’s a pretty harsh meaning.
116. Cezanne
Cezanne is often used as a female name by Afrikaners because of its similarity to Suzanne. It means ‘big flower’.
117. Christien
Christien, the Dutch form of Christine, has a spelling which is more or less phonetical in nature. It means ‘follower of Christ’.
118. Collien
Cute and adorable Collein is possibly a variant of the English name Colleen and means ‘girl’.
119. Corli
Image: Shutterstock
Corli is the Afrikaans diminutive of Cornelia and means ‘horn’.
120. Dane
Dane is a form of Danae, a word used by Homer to designate the Greeks.
121. Dolinde
Dolinde is an archaic form of Adelinde, which is now heard occasionally in Netherlands and South America.
122. Elize
A name that probably needs no introduction, Elize is Afrikaans form of Elise and means ‘consecrated to God’.
123. Elna
Elna is either a form of Elin or a contracted form of Eleonora. It means ‘beloved’.
124. Elsabe
Elsabe, the medieval Dutch form of the name Elizabeth, is considered a classic among Afrikaans. It means ‘consecrated to God’.
125. Elspeth
Elspeth is also a variation of Elizabeth and means ‘consecrated to God’.
126. Elzebe
Elzebe is one of the least common variants of Elizabeth, meaning ‘consecrated to God’.
127. Emmarentia
Afrikaans baby name Emmarentia is influenced by the super popular name Emma, which means ‘universal’.
128. Erco
Erco is a spelling variation of Erko, which in itself is a diminutive of Erk. It means ‘eternal ruler’.
129. Esca
Esca is likely to be a form of Eska, an Inuit name, meaning ‘a creek’.
130. Estia
This name throngs from Greek moniker Hestia, which is associated with the Greek goddess of home, heart, and chastity.
131. Estie
Estie is the diminutive of Ester, which is the simplified spelling of Esther, meaning ‘star’.
132. Fleur
Fleur is a delicate and generic floral name, meaning ‘flower’.
133. Genever
Geneva is the Afrikaans form of Juniper and means ‘juniper tree’.
134. Gizelda
A name with balletic, graceful, and gazelle-like feel, Gizelda means ‘hostage’.
135. Hanneleen
This Afrikaans name is basically a combination of Hanne and Leen.
136. Hanneli
Hanneli is an elaborate version of Hannah and means ‘grace’.
137. Isebel
Nope, Isebel isn’t derived from Isabel, but has its origin in Jezebel, which means ‘not exalted’.
138. Itha
Itha is a stylish vowel name, meaning ‘industrious one’.
139. Izelle
This moniker, with uncertain origin, would fit well with recent favorites such as Giselle and Isabelle.
140. Jacomie
Jacomie, pronounced as ‘yah-ko-meeh’, is a feminine form of James and means ‘supplanter’.
141. Jadine
Jadine is either an elaborate form of Jade or a feminine variant of Jaden.
142. Jan
Jan is a short, sweet, and understated name, meaning ‘gift of God’.
143. Jeanique
This moniker is a blend of Jeanne with the ending ‘ique’.
144. Johanika
This version of Johanna, meaning ‘God is gracious’, is used mostly in South Africa.
145. Jozette
This variant of Josette emigrated to South Africa in the last century and has already become one of the the popular Afrikaans names.
146. Juane
Juane, meaning ‘Lord is gracious’, is ubiquitous everywhere in the Afrikaans speaking world.
147. Kayla
A name with several pop culture references, Kayla means ‘crown or laurel’.
148. Kerina
Kerina is the elaborate form of Keri, the feminine form of the name Kerry. It means ‘dark haired’.
149. Kesiah
While Kezia is waiting for emancipation in America, its variant Kesiah is used in full force in Afrikaans speaking countries.
150. Klara
Klara is the Afrikaans form of Clara and means ‘bright and clear’.
151. Landi
This moniker, associated with South African model Landi Sanepoel, is a short form of Yolandi and means ‘violet’.
152. Laurienne
This form of Lauriana is used widely in non-francophone countries, including South Africa.
153. Lesedi
If you like the name Lucia, but cringe at the fact that it’s too common, you can consider the Afrikaans name Lesedi, which means ‘light’.
154. Liandri
The name Liandri, meaning ‘precious gift’, displays exactly what babies are to their parents.
155. Lieve
Lieve is a delicate short form of the name Godelieve and means ‘loved by the gods’.
156. Lindia
Lindia is the elaboration of the name Linda. It means ‘soft and tender’.
157. Loraina
This sweet name, meaning ‘from the province of Lorraine’, is ripe for reconsideration.
158. Lorelei
Lorelei is a German mythology name, associated with mermaids infamous for luring sailors, which led to their death.
159. Lou
Lou is the short form of the name Louise and means ‘renowned warrior’.
160. Lusea
Image: IStock
This lovely name, generally given to babies born during the breaking of daylight, means ‘light’.
161. Maline
This multicultural name, meaning ‘high tower or woman of Magdela’, is both simple and exotic.
162. Mardene
Mardene is either a variant of Mardena or a combination of Martine and Mardi. Either way, it’s a really cool name.
163. Marelize
Marelize is a modern invented name, created by using the Afrikaans suffix ‘ize’.
164. Maretha
A name that’s traditional, quiet and tasteful, Maretha means ‘lady’.
165. Marieke
Marieke is a form of Marie and means ‘bitter’.
166. Mariete
One of the least-used forms of Marie, Mariete means ‘bitter’.
167. Marlize
The moniker Marlize is a combination of Maria and Lies.
168. Melisse
Melisse, meaning ‘honeybee’ originates as the name of a nymph in Greek mythology.
169. Merinda
Merinda, meaning ‘admirable’, could be used as a short form of Rosmerinde.
170. Mia
This multicultural name, meaning ‘bitter’, is enjoying a meteoric rise in South Africa too.
171. Miems
If you’re picking Willemina for your daughter, use short and snappy Miems as the nickname. It means ‘helmet or protection’.
172. Minenhle
Minenhle is a Zulu baby name, meaning ‘beautiful day’.
173. Minuit
Minuit is an uncommon French name, meaning ‘midnight’. The nickname Minnie would be truly delightful.
174. Mischa
Mischa, a form of Mikhail, was a true blue boy’s name until Mischa Barton of “The OC” appeared. It means ‘who is like God’.
175. Naemi
If you want a soft and melodious Biblical name, pick Naemi, which means ‘pleasantness’.
176. Nelleke
Nelleke is the sweetest way to get Nel in your daughter’s name. It means ‘a horn’.
177. Norne
Norne is a form of Norna, a moniker used by Sir Walter Scott for his novel, “The Pirate”.
178. Ottoline
Ottoline is the feminine form of the name Otto and means ‘wealth or fortune’.
179. Peta
Peta is the Dutch feminine form of the name Peter and means ‘rock’.
180. Quintilla
This Mexican name, meaning ‘fifth born’, is generally used for the fifth girl in the family.
181. Qume
Qume is a combination of Quinton and Amy.
182. Rachela
Rachela is a delicate and soft name, meaning ‘ewe’.
183. Rethabile
Baby name Rethabile, meaning ‘we are glad’, has its origin in Sotho, Setswana, and Sepedi language.
184. Riana
Riana is the feminine form of Rian and means ‘little king’, but is used by girls as well.
185. Rosalie
Rosalie, meaning ‘rose’, is one of the neatest ways to get a Rose inspired name.
186. Ruandi
This Afrikaans female name is likely to be a combination of Ruan and Yolandi.
187. Saartjie
Saartjie derives from the Hebrew name Sarah, meaning ‘princess’.
188. Saskia
Saskia is a cute and unique name, meaning ‘Saxon woman’.
189. Simone
This elegant name is the feminization of Simon and means ‘the listener’.
190. Skylar
Skylar, a name with a hippie flair, means ‘fugitive’.
Did you know?191. Sybella
Sybella is a unique Afrikaans name, meaning ‘oracle or prophetess’.
192. Thandolwethu
There could be no better way to show your daughter how much you love her than by naming her Thandolwethu, which means ‘our love’.
193. Theolene
Theolinde, meaning ‘people or soft’, has a long and honorable pedigree.
194. Trudene
Trudene is a sincere and bright-eyed name, meaning ‘spear of strength’.
195. Tshegofatso
Keep the blessing of the Almighty on your daughter forever by naming her Tshegofatso, which means ‘blessing’.
196. Violett
Image: Shutterstock
Violett is the variant of the English name Violet, meaning ‘violet color’.
197. Vivette
Vivette is either a form of Vivienne or an independent name, meaning ‘alive’.
198. Wilhelmina
Wilhelmina, meaning ‘helmet or protection’, will fit well in the category of longer and unique names.
199. Winnifred
This spelling of Winifred is exclusive to the Afrikaners. It means ‘white or fair’.
200. Zonja
Zonja is the Afrikaans form of Sophia and means ‘wisdom’.
Discover More Names
When you have to choose a name for your baby, a few hundreds of names may not be just enough. Keep digging our mine of baby names until you find that one precious gem.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Which African name means king?
Some African names that mean “a king” are Malik, Oba, Eze, Sultan, Kgosi, and Mandlenkosi. Parents who want their children to be brave like a king or reach greater heights in life can choose any of these names for them.
2. Which African name means brave?
Jabari is an African name that means brave. It is a popular name of Egyptian origin and is usually given to boys. Another meaning of Jabari is ‘famous.’
3. Which African name means queen?
The name ‘Malika’ refers to a queen in Africa. If you are looking for a similar royal name, you may choose ‘Nkosazana,’ which refers to a princess.
4. How are Afrikaans names culturally significant?
Afrikaans names typically have roots in Dutch and African heritage. They carry meanings related to nature, strength, and wisdom, and can also be inspired by historical and biblical figures. These names highlight local traditions and regional diversity, making each one culturally significant and meaningful.
5. What makes Afrikaans names unique?
Afrikaans names have unusual spelling patterns, phonetics, and meanings. While they may have roots in languages like Spanish, French, and Dutch, they also carry African influences. For example, they have unique sounds and suffixes such as ‘ette’ or ‘elle.’ The distinct pronunciations and sounds set these names apart from names in other cultures and languages.
Afrikaans baby names have been inspired by many cultures and origins that reflect in them. These names can be an exciting choice for your baby as they are uncommon and will make your baby’s name stand out from the rest. You could also pick out a few names from this list and suggest someone you know who is looking for the same. We are sure that this list will come in handy when required. So scroll through and choose a unique name for your little bundle of joy.
Infographic: Afrikaans Boys And Girls Names With Meanings
Afrikaan names are unique-sounding ones that are influenced by different cultures and countries. So if you are curious about their names, browse the infographic below to learn about them and their beautiful meanings. You may also find the best one for your baby. Illustration: Momjunction Design Team
Key Pointers
- The Afrikaans baby names may include French, Spanish, English, and American names.
- Some cool and trendy choices include two-syllable baby boy names such as Hansie, Imka, and Lencho.
- Parents seeking gender-neutral options for their little ones can pick names like Ade and Kai.
- Parents interested in naming their baby after the day of the week they were born may pick names such as Aba and Abina.
Illustration: Cheerful Afrikaans Baby Names For Boys And Girls
Image: Stable Diffusion/MomJunction Design Team
Explore the rich tapestry of African culture with this captivating video featuring 60 beautiful African girl names and their meanings. Discover unique and meaningful names for your little princess.
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