Efua

Meaning & Etymology

Born on Friday

Born on Friday

Etymology

The name ‘Efua’ is derived from the Akan day-naming tradition, where ‘E’ refers to ‘Edena’ (female) and ‘Fua’ represents ‘Friday’.

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

Cultural context

In Ghanaian culture, particularly among the Akan people, names are often given based on the day of the week a child is born. ‘Efua’ signifies a female born on Friday, reflecting the importance of the day-naming system in Akan society.

Symbolism

‘Efua’ symbolises the day of the week Friday, which is associated with peace and love in Akan tradition.

Naming ceremony

The traditional Akan naming ceremony, ‘outdooring’, usually takes place on the eighth day after birth. The child is formally named and introduced to the community, with rituals that include the pouring of libations and the sharing of a special meal.

Related names

• Kofi (male counterpart)
• Abena (female born on Tuesday)
• Kwame (male born on Saturday)
• Yaa (female born on Thursday)