Mokekoli

Meaning & Etymology

Little one

Little one

Etymology

Derived from the Kikongo root kekoli, meaning ‘small’ or ‘little’.

Linguistic family: Niger-Congo > Atlantic-Congo > Volta-Congo > Benue-Congo > Bantoid > Bantu > Kikongo

Cultural context

In Lari culture, names often reflect the circumstances of the child’s birth or physical attributes. ‘Mokekoli’ is a diminutive form indicating a small or young child.

Symbolism

The name symbolises the value of smallness or youth, often associated with innocence and the beginning of life.

Naming ceremony

The Lari people traditionally hold a naming ceremony called ‘libanga’ where the child is presented to the community and given their name.