Akanke Adeyemi
A pioneering Yoruba female poet and cultural advocate in the early 20th century, known for preserving Yoruba oral traditions.
IPA Pronunciation
ɑːˈkɑːn.keɪ
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Syllables
Akanke is a Yoruba name meaning 'the cherished one' or 'one who is loved dearly.' Rooted in the Yoruba language of Nigeria, it combines 'Akan' (to cherish or love) and the suffix '-ke' (a feminine marker). Traditionally, it reflects a deep cultural emphasis on family bonds and the value of children as blessings and sources of joy.
Cultural Significance of Akanke
In Yoruba culture, names like Akanke carry deep significance, often reflecting the parents’ hopes or the child’s role within the family. It is a name bestowed to express love and the precious nature of the child, highlighting the communal values and the importance placed on family unity. Historically, such names are used at naming ceremonies and are part of a rich oral tradition.
Akanke Name Popularity in 2025
Today, Akanke remains a beloved name in Nigerian and Yoruba communities worldwide, symbolizing cultural pride and identity. Its use has spread through diaspora, and it enjoys moderate popularity among families seeking meaningful, culturally rooted names. Modern parents choose Akanke for its beautiful sound, strong meaning, and connection to heritage.
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International Variations11
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Explore More Girl Names10
Name Energy & Essence
The name Akanke carries the essence of “Precious one cherished by the family” from Yoruba tradition. Names beginning with "A" often embody qualities of ambition, leadership, and new beginnings.
Symbolism
Cultural Significance
In Yoruba culture, names like Akanke carry deep significance, often reflecting the parents’ hopes or the child’s role within the family. It is a name bestowed to express love and the precious nature of the child, highlighting the communal values and the importance placed on family unity. Historically, such names are used at naming ceremonies and are part of a rich oral tradition.
Akanke Olufunmilayo
A respected Yoruba matriarch and community leader who played a key role in women's empowerment movements in Nigeria during the 1950s.
Akanke Ogunlade
A renowned Yoruba historian and educator who documented indigenous histories and customs of southwestern Nigeria.
Akanke Bamidele
An early Yoruba activist advocating for cultural preservation and education in the post-colonial period.
Akanke Ifeoluwa
A traditional Yoruba priestess known for her spiritual guidance and leadership in the 19th century.
Akanke Adesola
A notable Yoruba artisan who contributed to the revival of traditional crafts in the late 20th century.
Akanke Folashade
An influential Yoruba educator and feminist who championed girls' education in southwestern Nigeria during the 1970s.
Akanke Morenikeji
A Yoruba cultural ambassador and writer promoting indigenous languages and literature internationally.
Akanke Adebayo
Actress
Akanke Olaniyan
Author
Akanke Balogun
Musician
Akanke Ajayi
Fashion Designer
Akanke Abiola
Visual Artist
Akanke Adeola
Poet
Akanke Eniola
Entrepreneur
Akanke Titilayo
Activist
The Heart of Lagos ()
Yoruba Legends ()
Roots of Heritage ()
The Cherished One ()
Voices of the Ancestors ()
Akanke's Journey ()
Whispers of the Ogun River ()
Sunrise Over Ibadan ()
Akanke
🌐Spanish
Akanke
🌐French
Akanke
🌐German
Akanke
🌐Italian
アカンケ (Akanke)
🌐Japanese
阿坎克 (Ā kǎn kè)
🌐Chinese
أكانكي
🌐Arabic
Fun Fact About Akanke
Akanke is less common outside Yoruba communities but has been gaining recognition globally as African names gain popularity for their rich meanings and melodic sounds.
Personality Traits for Akanke
Individuals named Akanke are often seen as warm, loving, and nurturing. They tend to be deeply connected to family and friends, exhibiting loyalty and compassion. Their name suggests a personality that values relationships and cherishes emotional bonds, often inspiring others through kindness and care.
What does the name Akanke mean?
Akanke is a Yoruba name meaning “Precious one cherished by the family”. Akanke is a Yoruba name meaning 'the cherished one' or 'one who is loved dearly.' Rooted in the Yoruba language of Nigeria, it combines 'Akan' (to cherish or love) and the suffix '-ke' (a feminine marker). Traditionally, it reflects a deep cultural emphasis on family bonds and the value of children as blessings and sources of joy.
How do you pronounce Akanke?
Akanke is pronounced (IPA: ɑːˈkɑːn.keɪ). It has 2 syllables with the pattern N/A.
What are nicknames for Akanke?
Popular nicknames for Akanke include: Aka, Kanki, Anke, Keke, Akki, Kanya, Akka, Kani, Anka, Kankie.
Who are famous people named Akanke?
Famous people named Akanke include: , , , , .
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Akanke is a beautiful Yoruba name meaning “Precious one cherished by the family”. Akanke is a Yoruba name meaning 'the cherished one' or 'one who is loved dearly.' Rooted in the Yoruba language of Nigeria, it combines 'Akan' (to cherish or love) and the suffix '-ke' (a feminine mar...
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