Alpha Yaya Bah
A prominent 19th-century West African ruler and resistance leader against French colonial forces in Guinea.
IPA Pronunciation
bɑ
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Syllables
Bah is a concise name with roots primarily in West African cultures, particularly within Mandinka and related ethnic groups. It often signifies strength, resilience, or a familial clan name. Historically, Bah has been used as a surname and occasionally as a given name, representing lineage and community ties deeply embedded in African heritage and oral traditions.
Cultural Significance of Bah
In West African societies, particularly among the Mandinka people, 'Bah' serves as a marker of lineage and clan identity, often used as a surname but also embraced as a given name to honor ancestry. It evokes a sense of belonging and tradition, linking individuals to their community's history and values, especially in oral storytelling and social structures.
Bah Name Popularity in 2025
Today, 'Bah' is less common as a first name globally but remains prevalent as a surname in West Africa. Its simplicity and strong sound appeal to parents seeking short, culturally significant names. The name is also gaining recognition in diasporic communities, symbolizing pride in African heritage and connecting younger generations with their roots.
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International Variations11
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More Boy Names Starting With B10
Name Energy & Essence
The name Bah carries the essence of “A name symbolizing strength and simplicity.” from Mandinka (West African) tradition. Names beginning with "B" often embody qualities of stability, nurturing, and groundedness.
Symbolism
Cultural Significance
In West African societies, particularly among the Mandinka people, 'Bah' serves as a marker of lineage and clan identity, often used as a surname but also embraced as a given name to honor ancestry. It evokes a sense of belonging and tradition, linking individuals to their community's history and values, especially in oral storytelling and social structures.
Samory Touré Bah
Founder of the Wassoulou Empire who resisted French colonization in West Africa during the late 19th century.
Kemo Bah
A notable Mandinka historian and oral storyteller preserving West African history and traditions.
Mamadou Bah
An influential Guinean politician and diplomat known for his work in Pan-African unity.
Fodé Bah
An early 20th-century Mandinka poet and cultural figure who contributed to preserving Manding oral literature.
Bakary Bah
A respected Mandinka elder and community leader known for his role in education reforms in Guinea.
Ibrahima Bah
A 19th-century Mandinka warrior who played a crucial role in local resistance movements.
Sory Bah
A prominent Mandinka griot famous for his musical contributions celebrating African history.
Alpha Oumar Bah
Politician
Moussa Bah
Writer
Amadou Bah
Activist
Ibrahima Bah
Musician
Sekou Bah
Historian
Alhassane Bah
Diplomat
Fodé Bah
Poet
Bakary Bah
Educator
The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind ()
Roots (2016 Miniseries) ()
Black Panther ()
Lionheart ()
Queen of Katwe ()
Beasts of No Nation ()
District 9 ()
Blood Diamond ()
Bah
🌐Spanish
Bah
🌐French
Bah
🌐German
Bah
🌐Italian
バハ
🌐Japanese
巴
🌐Chinese
باه
🌐Arabic
Fun Fact About Bah
The name 'Bah' is widely used as a surname among the Mandinka people, one of West Africa’s largest ethnic groups, known for their rich musical and oral traditions.
Personality Traits for Bah
Individuals named Bah are often perceived as grounded, strong-willed, and dependable. The name conveys simplicity with depth, suggesting a personality that values tradition, loyalty, and resilience. Those named Bah might be seen as calm leaders who cherish community and family bonds.
What does the name Bah mean?
Bah is a Mandinka (West African) name meaning “A name symbolizing strength and simplicity.”. Bah is a concise name with roots primarily in West African cultures, particularly within Mandinka and related ethnic groups. It often signifies strength, resilience, or a familial clan name. Historically, Bah has been used as a surname and occasionally as a given name, representing lineage and community ties deeply embedded in African heritage and oral traditions.
How do you pronounce Bah?
Bah is pronounced (IPA: bɑ). It has 2 syllables with the pattern N/A.
What are nicknames for Bah?
Popular nicknames for Bah include: B, Bah-Bah, Bahi, Bahito, Bahman, Bayo, Bash, Bae, Babu, Bahji.
Who are famous people named Bah?
Famous people named Bah include: , , , , .