Kakraba

Meaning & Etymology

Girl born on Wednesday

Girl born on Wednesday

Etymology

The name ‘Kakraba’ is derived from the Dagbani word for Wednesday, ‘Krakra’, which is associated with the day of the week a child is born.

Linguistic family: Niger-Congo > Atlantic-Congo > Gur > Oti-Volta > Western Oti-Volta > Dagbani

Cultural context

In Dagomba culture, the day of the week on which a child is born is significant and often influences the choice of name. Names like Kakraba reflect the cultural importance of the days of the week and their associated qualities.

Symbolism

Kakraba symbolizes the connection between an individual and the day of the week they were born, reflecting the Dagomba belief in the influence of days on one’s life and character.

Naming ceremony

The Dagomba naming ceremony, known as ‘Chuɣu’, typically takes place on the eighth day after the child’s birth. During this ceremony, the child’s name is announced and celebrated by family and community members.