Sessa

Meaning & Etymology

Born in the morning

Born in the morning

Etymology

Derived from the Kikongo word se (morning) combined with the suffix -ssa indicating a state of being.

Linguistic family: Niger-Congo > Atlantic-Congo > Volta-Congo > Benue-Congo > Bantoid > Southern > Narrow Bantu > Central > H > Kongo

Cultural context

In Bakongo culture, names are often given based on the circumstances of a child’s birth. ‘Sessa’ reflects the time of day when the child was born, highlighting the significance of timing and natural phenomena in naming traditions.

Symbolism

‘Sessa’ symbolises the dawn of a new beginning, representing hope, renewal, and the promise of a fresh start.

Naming ceremony

The Bakongo naming ceremony typically takes place on the eighth day after birth. Elders and family members gather to bestow the name, often choosing one that reflects the circumstances of the birth or the child’s perceived destiny.

Related names

• Sese
• Sesi