Miriam Makeba
South African singer and civil rights activist known as 'Mama Africa', famous for her musical talent and anti-apartheid stance.
IPA Pronunciation
/mษหkษbษ/
Say It Like
Syllables
Makeba is a name of African origin, often attributed to the Xhosa or Zulu cultures. It means 'gift' or 'blessing,' symbolizing something precious bestowed upon a family. The name gained international recognition through Miriam Makeba, a renowned South African singer and civil rights activist, which also connects it to themes of empowerment and cultural pride.
Cultural Significance of Makeba
Makeba holds significant cultural resonance in South Africa and other parts of Africa, symbolizing a blessing or gift. It became globally recognized through Miriam Makeba, whose music and activism brought African culture and struggles into international focus. The name is often associated with strength, resilience, and cultural pride in African communities.
Makeba Name Popularity in 2025
In recent years, Makeba has seen modest use beyond Africa, embraced by parents attracted to its unique sound and rich cultural heritage. It appeals to families seeking meaningful, culturally rooted names that convey empowerment and beauty. Though not widespread in baby name charts globally, it enjoys steady appreciation within diaspora communities and among those inspired by Miriam Makeba's legacy.
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International Variations10
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More Girl Names Starting With M10
Name Energy & Essence
The name Makeba carries the essence of โGift or blessingโ from African (Xhosa/Zulu) tradition. Names beginning with "M" often embody qualities of wisdom, intuition, and emotional depth.
Symbolism
Cultural Significance
Makeba holds significant cultural resonance in South Africa and other parts of Africa, symbolizing a blessing or gift. It became globally recognized through Miriam Makeba, whose music and activism brought African culture and struggles into international focus. The name is often associated with strength, resilience, and cultural pride in African communities.
Makeba Riddick
American songwriter and vocal producer notable for her work with pop and R&B artists.
Makeba Alcide
Saint Lucian track and field athlete who specializes in the heptathlon and pentathlon.
Miriam Makeba
Singer and Activist
Makeba Riddick
Songwriter and Vocal Producer
Makeba Alcide
Athlete
Makeba Mooncycle
Poet and Author
Makeba McCreary
Educator
Makeba Johnson
Activist
Makeba Richards
Visual Artist
Makeba Thomas
Dancer
Mama Africa ()
Roots: The Next Generation ()
African Voices ()
Song of the Motherland ()
Sunrise Over Soweto ()
Voices Unheard ()
Echoes of Freedom ()
The Long Walk Home ()
Parents: Actors Tessa James and Patrick Carney
Makeba
๐Spanish
Makeba
๐French
Makeba
๐German
Makeba
๐Italian
ใใฑใ
๐Japanese
้ฉฌๅฏๅทด
๐Chinese
ู ุงููุจุง
๐Arabic
Fun Fact About Makeba
The name Makeba gained international fame thanks to Miriam Makeba, nicknamed 'Mama Africa,' who was the first African woman to win a Grammy Award and became a global symbol for anti-apartheid activism.
Personality Traits for Makeba
People named Makeba are often perceived as strong, creative, and compassionate. The name suggests a person who is a beacon of positivity and resilience, with a natural inclination toward leadership and cultural awareness. They may have an artistic streak and a deep appreciation for heritage and social justice.
What does the name Makeba mean?
Makeba is a African (Xhosa/Zulu) name meaning โGift or blessingโ. Makeba is a name of African origin, often attributed to the Xhosa or Zulu cultures. It means 'gift' or 'blessing,' symbolizing something precious bestowed upon a family. The name gained international recognition through Miriam Makeba, a renowned South African singer and civil rights activist, which also connects it to themes of empowerment and cultural pride.
How do you pronounce Makeba?
Makeba is pronounced (IPA: /mษหkษbษ/). It has 2 syllables with the pattern N/A.
What are nicknames for Makeba?
Popular nicknames for Makeba include: Maki, Keba, Mak, Kebbie, Maka, Bea, Makie, Kebs, Mabs, Mabee, Makaboo, Keebs.
Who are famous people named Makeba?
Famous people named Makeba include: , , , Miriam Makeba, Makeba Riddick.
Which celebrities named their baby Makeba?
Celebrity babies named Makeba include children of: Actors Tessa James and Patrick Carney.
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Makeba is a beautiful African (Xhosa/Zulu) name meaning โGift or blessingโ. Makeba is a name of African origin, often attributed to the Xhosa or Zulu cultures. It means 'gift' or 'blessing,' symbolizing something precious bestowed upon a family. The name gained international ...
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