Yemaya (Orisha)
Mythical mother goddess of the Yoruba religion, representing the ocean and motherhood.
IPA Pronunciation
jɛˈmɑːjɑː
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Syllables
Yemaya, originating from the Yoruba language, is a revered deity symbolizing motherhood, fertility, and the ocean. Her name means 'Mother whose children are like fish,' reflecting her role as a nurturing and protective figure in Yoruba and Afro-Caribbean religions. Historically, Yemaya has been worshipped as a powerful mother goddess associated with creation and the life-giving waters.
Cultural Significance of Yemaya
Yemaya is a central figure in Yoruba religion and Santería, celebrated as the mother of all living things and the ocean's spirit. She embodies fertility, protection, and the nurturing power of water. Festivals in her honor include music, dance, and offerings at the sea, reflecting her deep cultural impact in West Africa and the African diaspora, especially in Cuba and Brazil.
Yemaya Name Popularity in 2025
Today, the name Yemaya is embraced worldwide by parents seeking a spiritual, unique, and culturally rich name for their daughters. Its association with strength, femininity, and nature appeals in contemporary naming trends. While not overly common, it enjoys growing popularity among families interested in Afrocentric identities and mythological names.
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International Variations12
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More Girl Names Starting With Y10
Name Energy & Essence
The name Yemaya carries the essence of “Mother of the seas, goddess of motherhood and water” from Yoruba tradition. Names beginning with "Y" often embody qualities of youthful energy, intuition, and yearning for knowledge.
Symbolism
Cultural Significance
Yemaya is a central figure in Yoruba religion and Santería, celebrated as the mother of all living things and the ocean's spirit. She embodies fertility, protection, and the nurturing power of water. Festivals in her honor include music, dance, and offerings at the sea, reflecting her deep cultural impact in West Africa and the African diaspora, especially in Cuba and Brazil.
Yemaya Ilesanmi
A notable Yoruba priestess and spiritual leader known in the 19th century for preserving Yoruba religious practices.
Yemaya Williams
An African-American civil rights activist who invoked the spirit of Yemaya in cultural and religious movements.
Yemaya Adebola
A Yoruba historian who documented the oral traditions related to Yemaya and other Orishas.
Yemaya Folayan
A mid-20th century Nigerian poet who often referenced Yemaya in her works highlighting African heritage.
Yemaya Ogunleye
An Afro-Caribbean religious scholar specializing in Orisha worship and diaspora spirituality.
Yemaya Ajayi
A Nigerian traditional healer and spiritual guide dedicated to Orisha worship and cultural preservation.
Yemaya Alade
A cultural historian who promoted awareness of Yoruba and Afro-Caribbean religious figures including Yemaya.
Yemaya De La Cruz
Artist
Yemaya Johnson
Musician
Yemaya Richards
Writer
Yemaya Thompson
Activist
Yemaya Carter
Educator
Yemaya Nwosu
Film Director
Yemaya Martinez
Dancer
Yemaya Osei
Poet
Yemaya: Mother of the Sea ()
Orishas Rising ()
The Spirit of Yemaya ()
Sacred Waters ()
The Ocean’s Mother ()
Yemaya's Legacy ()
Daughters of the Sea ()
Mystic Tides ()
Parents: Jada Pinkett Smith & Will Smith
Yemayá
🌐Spanish
Yemaya
🌐French
Yemaya
🌐German
Yemaya
🌐Italian
イェマヤ (Yemaya)
🌐Japanese
耶马雅 (Yēmǎyǎ)
🌐Chinese
يمايا
🌐Arabic
Fun Fact About Yemaya
Yemaya is also known as the queen of the oceans and is celebrated in Afro-Caribbean religions with colorful festivals honoring her powerful spirit and motherly protection.
Personality Traits for Yemaya
Individuals named Yemaya are often thought to be nurturing, empathetic, and deeply intuitive. They possess a strong protective instinct and a calm, soothing demeanor much like the ocean’s gentle waves. Creativity, emotional depth, and leadership in caring roles are common traits associated with this name.
What does the name Yemaya mean?
Yemaya is a Yoruba name meaning “Mother of the seas, goddess of motherhood and water”. Yemaya, originating from the Yoruba language, is a revered deity symbolizing motherhood, fertility, and the ocean. Her name means 'Mother whose children are like fish,' reflecting her role as a nurturing and protective figure in Yoruba and Afro-Caribbean religions. Historically, Yemaya has been worshipped as a powerful mother goddess associated with creation and the life-giving waters.
How do you pronounce Yemaya?
Yemaya is pronounced (IPA: jɛˈmɑːjɑː). It has 2 syllables with the pattern N/A.
What are nicknames for Yemaya?
Popular nicknames for Yemaya include: Yemi, Maya, Yaya, Mama Y, Yem, Yemmi, Yemiya, Mimi, Aya, Yemz, Yema, Yemaya Bear.
Who are famous people named Yemaya?
Famous people named Yemaya include: , , , , .
Which celebrities named their baby Yemaya?
Celebrity babies named Yemaya include children of: Jada Pinkett Smith & Will Smith.
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Yemaya is a beautiful Yoruba name meaning “Mother of the seas, goddess of motherhood and water”. Yemaya, originating from the Yoruba language, is a revered deity symbolizing motherhood, fertility, and the ocean. Her name means 'Mother whose children are like fish,' reflecting her role as a nurtur...
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