Nana-Kwasi
/ NAH-nah-KWAH-see /
- Gender
- Boy
- Origin
- 🇬🇭 Ghana
- Religion
- Traditional
- First Seen
- —
- Trait
- Leadership
Meaning & Etymology
Chief born on Sunday
Chief born on Sunday
Etymology
Derived from the Akan words nana (chief, grandparent) and Kwasi (born on Sunday).
Linguistic family: Niger-Congo > Kwa > Potou-Tano > Akan
Cultural context
In Akan culture, names are often linked to the day of the week a person is born. ‘Nana’ signifies a position of leadership or respect, while ‘Kwasi’ indicates the day of birth.
Symbolism
The name symbolizes leadership and the spiritual significance of being born on a Sunday, which is associated with the deity associated with the day.
Naming ceremony
The Akan naming ceremony, known as ‘outdooring’, typically occurs on the eighth day after birth. The child is formally named and introduced to the community.