Ìlẹ̀kẹ́
/ ee-LEH-keh /
- Gender
- Girl
- Origin
- 🇳🇬 Nigeria
- Religion
- Traditional
- First Seen
- —
- Trait
- Beautiful
Meaning & Etymology
Jewel
Jewel
Etymology
From the Yoruba word ilẹ̀kẹ̀, meaning ‘bead’ or ‘jewel’.
Linguistic family: Niger-Congo > Volta-Niger > Yoruboid
Cultural context
Jewels and beads are highly valued in Yoruba culture, symbolising beauty and status.
Symbolism
Represents beauty, elegance, and the preciousness of a jewel.
Naming ceremony
Traditional Yoruba naming ceremonies involve prayers and offerings to ancestors.