Fatou Bintou Fall
Senegalese historian and author known for her work on West African oral traditions and Islamic history.
IPA Pronunciation
ˈfɑː.tuː
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Fatou is a West African female name, commonly found in Senegal, Gambia, and Mali, derived from the Arabic name Fatoumata, itself a local variant of Fatima. It signifies 'one who is born during the rainy season' or 'captivating,' symbolizing fertility and renewal in the Sahelian cultures. The name carries religious reverence, linked to Fatima, daughter of Prophet Muhammad, revered in Islamic tradition.
Cultural Significance of Fatou
Fatou is a cherished name in West African Muslim communities, especially among the Mandinka and Wolof peoples. It celebrates cultural identity, linking to Islamic heritage through Fatima, the Prophet’s daughter, and to natural cycles such as the rainy season, a vital period for agriculture. Its usage reflects a blend of religious devotion and respect for nature, often given to girls born in the rainy months.
Fatou Name Popularity in 2025
Today, Fatou remains a popular female name in Senegal, Gambia, and Mali, and among diaspora communities worldwide. It has maintained steady popularity due to cultural pride and religious significance. In contemporary times, the name is also embraced for its melodic sound and strong cultural roots, appearing in literature, music, and public figures’ names, helping preserve traditional naming practices.
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International Variations10
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More Girl Names Starting With F10
Name Energy & Essence
The name Fatou carries the essence of “One who is born during the rainy season” from West African (Mandinka, Wolof) with Arabic influence tradition. Names beginning with "F" often embody qualities of family devotion, harmony, and compassion.
Symbolism
Cultural Significance
Fatou is a cherished name in West African Muslim communities, especially among the Mandinka and Wolof peoples. It celebrates cultural identity, linking to Islamic heritage through Fatima, the Prophet’s daughter, and to natural cycles such as the rainy season, a vital period for agriculture. Its usage reflects a blend of religious devotion and respect for nature, often given to girls born in the rainy months.
Fatou Djibo
Pioneering Nigerien educator and women's rights activist, instrumental in expanding female education in Niger.
Fatoumata Diawara
Malian singer and actress whose work celebrates African cultural heritage and women's empowerment.
Fatou Bensouda
Lawyer
Fatou N'Diaye
Actress
Fatoumata Tambajang
Politician
Bienvenue au Gondwana ()
Faat Kiné ()
Timbuktu ()
Black Girl (La Noire de...) ()
Nafi’s Father ()
Atlantics ()
Moolaadé ()
Hyènes ()
Fatou
🌐Spanish
Fatou
🌐French
Fatou
🌐German
Fatou
🌐Italian
ファトゥー (Fatū)
🌐Japanese
法图 (Fǎtú)
🌐Chinese
فاطو
🌐Arabic
Fun Fact About Fatou
The name Fatou is frequently used in Senegalese storytelling and music, symbolizing beauty, strength, and resilience in local folklore and songs.
Personality Traits for Fatou
Individuals named Fatou are often seen as warm, nurturing, and resilient. They tend to embody a strong sense of community and cultural pride, with a natural charisma that draws others to them. Fatous are perceived as dependable and spirited, combining a deep-rooted respect for tradition with a lively, optimistic outlook on life.
What does the name Fatou mean?
Fatou is a West African (Mandinka, Wolof) with Arabic influence name meaning “One who is born during the rainy season”. Fatou is a West African female name, commonly found in Senegal, Gambia, and Mali, derived from the Arabic name Fatoumata, itself a local variant of Fatima. It signifies 'one who is born during the rainy season' or 'captivating,' symbolizing fertility and renewal in the Sahelian cultures. The name carries religious reverence, linked to Fatima, daughter of Prophet Muhammad, revered in Islamic tradition.
How do you pronounce Fatou?
Fatou is pronounced (IPA: ˈfɑː.tuː). It has 2 syllables with the pattern N/A.
What are nicknames for Fatou?
Popular nicknames for Fatou include: Fati, TouTou, Fafa, Fat, Toulou, Fatu, Tou, Fatsy, Fay, Toto.
Who are famous people named Fatou?
Famous people named Fatou include: , , , Fatou Bensouda, Fatou N'Diaye.
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Fatou is a beautiful West African (Mandinka, Wolof) with Arabic influence name meaning “One who is born during the rainy season”. Fatou is a West African female name, commonly found in Senegal, Gambia, and Mali, derived from the Arabic name Fatoumata, itself a local variant of Fatima. It signifies 'one who is born during the rai...
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