Abla

Meaning & Etymology

Born on a Tuesday

Born on a Tuesday

Etymology

The name ‘Abla’ is derived from the Fante word for Tuesday, ‘Eblaada’, which is a combination of ‘E’ (day) and ‘bla’ (second).

Linguistic family: Niger-Congo > Atlantic-Congo > Kwa > Akan

Cultural context

In Fante culture, the day of the week on which a child is born is significant and often influences the choice of name. ‘Abla’ reflects the importance of the day of birth in Akan societies.

Symbolism

The name ‘Abla’ symbolises the day of the week and is believed to influence the child’s personality and destiny, as per Akan day-naming traditions.

Naming ceremony

The traditional Fante naming ceremony, ‘outdooring’, typically takes place on the eighth day after birth. The child is formally named and introduced to the community, with rituals involving the pouring of libations and the giving of gifts.

Related names

• Kwabena (male equivalent for Wednesday)
• Kodjo (male equivalent for Monday)
• Yaa (female equivalent for Thursday)