Ngelase
/ nge-LAH-seh /
- Gender
- Boy
- Origin
- 🇨🇩 DR Congo
- Religion
- Traditional
- First Seen
- —
- Trait
- Loving
Meaning & Etymology
The one who is loved
The one who is loved
Etymology
Derived from the Hunde word gelase, meaning ‘to love’ or ‘to be loved’.
Linguistic family: Niger-Congo > Bantu > Central Bantu > Hunde-Komo
Cultural context
In Hunde culture, names often reflect the circumstances of a child’s birth or the hopes and aspirations of the family. ‘Ngelase’ signifies the love and affection the community has for the child.
Symbolism
The name ‘Ngelase’ symbolises the importance of love and community acceptance in Hunde society, highlighting the child’s place within the social fabric.
Naming ceremony
The Hunde naming ceremony, known as ‘Umusi w’izina’, involves the family and community gathering to bestow the name upon the child. It is a time of celebration and blessings.