Afua

Meaning & Etymology

Born on Friday

Born on Friday

Etymology

The name ‘Afua’ is derived from the Akan day name system, where ‘Afua’ is the female name given to a child born on a Friday.

Linguistic family: Niger-Congo > Kwa > Potou-Tano > Tano > Central Tano > Akan

Cultural context

In Akan culture, names are often based on the day of the week a child is born. ‘Afua’ reflects the day of birth and is associated with specific attributes and qualities.

Symbolism

The name ‘Afua’ symbolises the day of the week Friday and is associated with the qualities and attributes linked to that day in Akan tradition.

Naming ceremony

In Akan tradition, the naming ceremony, known as ‘kradin’, typically occurs on the eighth day after birth. The child is officially named and introduced to the community.

Related names

• Kwadwo (male for Monday)
• Kwabena (male for Tuesday)
• Kwaku (male for Wednesday)
• Yaw (male for Thursday)