All about the name FELA

Meaning, origin, history.

Fela is a unique and captivating name of Yoruba origin, West Africa's largest ethnic group. The name Fela is derived from the Yoruba word "fe" which means "expand, grow, or prosper." Thus, Fela signifies growth, prosperity, and expansion.

The history of the name Fela can be traced back to ancient Yoruba culture, where it was traditionally given to boys born after a period of hardship or difficulty. The naming ritual was believed to confer strength, resilience, and good fortune upon the child, thereby ensuring their future success and prosperity.

In modern times, Fela has transcended its traditional boundaries and gained international recognition due in large part to Nigerian musician and political activist Fela Kuti. Born Olufela Oludgodluwa Anikulapo Kuti, he adopted the name Fela, which later became his stage name and a symbol of his musical revolution. Fela Kuti's influence on African music and culture was profound, and his legacy continues to inspire artists around the world.

Today, Fela is celebrated as a unisex name that carries a powerful message of growth, prosperity, and resilience. It remains deeply rooted in Yoruba culture but has also become an international symbol of strength and empowerment. Whether you're drawn to its rich history or simply appreciate its unique sound, choosing the name Fela ensures your child's name will be as captivating and meaningful as they are destined to become.

See also

Yoruba

Popularity of the name FELA since 1880.

Number of births per year since 1880.

The name Fela has a unique presence in the United States, with only five babies being named Fela each year since its first appearance in the Social Security Administration's baby names data in 2006. This indicates that the name is quite rare and distinctive within the country, as it does not follow the trends of popular names like Emma or Noah, which consistently rank at the top of annual birth charts.

Despite its limited popularity, the name Fela has maintained a consistent presence over time, with five births recorded each year since 2006. This steadiness suggests that there may be a small but dedicated group of parents who are drawn to the name for its unique sound or cultural significance.

When looking at the total number of births in the United States, Fela's count is minuscule compared to the overall figure provided by the Social Security Administration. In 2006 alone, over four million babies were born in the country, making the five births registered for the name Fela a mere fraction of that total.

In conclusion, while the name Fela may not be widely popular or trendy in the United States, its consistent appearance in baby names data over time indicates that there is still a small but notable interest in this unique moniker. Its rarity also allows it to stand out among other names, potentially appealing to parents who wish for their child's name to be distinctive and memorable.