Kossigan

Meaning & Etymology

Born on Monday

Born on Monday

Etymology

Derived from the Fon term kɔsi (Monday) and the suffix -gan indicating ‘born of’ or ‘child of’.

Linguistic family: Niger-Congo > Volta-Congo > Gbe

Cultural context

In Fon culture, the day of the week on which a child is born is significant and often influences the choice of name. Kossigan reflects the importance of the day Monday in the traditional Fon calendar.

Symbolism

The name Kossigan symbolises the connection between the child and the day of the week, Monday, which is associated with certain spiritual and cultural attributes in Fon tradition.

Naming ceremony

The traditional Fon naming ceremony, known as viɖɔ, typically takes place a week after the child’s birth. During this ceremony, the child’s name is formally announced and celebrated by the community.

Related names

• Kossi (Monday)
• Kossivi (born on Thursday)
• Kossile (born on Friday)