Odùduwà
Mythical progenitor and founder of the Yoruba people, central to Yoruba creation myths.
IPA Pronunciation
oˈduːwa
Say It Like
Syllables
Oduwa is a name rooted in Yoruba culture, symbolizing heritage and ancestral pride. It is believed to derive from 'Odua,' the name of a legendary progenitor of the Yoruba people, representing origins and identity. Historically, the name connects to the stories of creation and leadership within West African traditions.
Cultural Significance of Oduwa
Oduwa holds deep cultural significance as it ties directly to the origins of the Yoruba people, one of West Africa's largest ethnic groups. The name evokes the ancestral figure Odùduwà, revered as the founder and spiritual leader in Yoruba mythology. Naming a child Oduwa carries the weight of honoring heritage and a connection to identity, history, and pride.
Oduwa Name Popularity in 2025
In contemporary times, Oduwa is embraced by parents seeking meaningful, culturally rich names for their children. Though less common globally, it is increasingly popular among the Yoruba diaspora, symbolizing a reclaiming of roots. Its unisex nature suits modern naming trends favoring gender neutrality and cultural authenticity.
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International Variations10
Name Energy & Essence
The name Oduwa carries the essence of “Bearer of legacy and cultural pride” from Yoruba tradition. Names beginning with "O" often embody qualities of openness, originality, and spiritual depth.
Symbolism
Cultural Significance
Oduwa holds deep cultural significance as it ties directly to the origins of the Yoruba people, one of West Africa's largest ethnic groups. The name evokes the ancestral figure Odùduwà, revered as the founder and spiritual leader in Yoruba mythology. Naming a child Oduwa carries the weight of honoring heritage and a connection to identity, history, and pride.
Ooni Oduduwa
Title held by the spiritual leader of Ile-Ife, regarded as a direct descendant of Odùduwà.
Odùduwà Ajagun
Legendary warrior king in Yoruba oral history, symbolizing strength and leadership.
Oduwa Adegbola
Influential Yoruba elder and cultural custodian known for preserving Yoruba traditions.
Oduwa Balogun
Prominent Yoruba historian and author on indigenous culture and history.
Chief Oduwa Adeyemi
Noted Yoruba community leader and activist for cultural education.
Oduwa Oladele
Yoruba traditional priest and keeper of oral histories.
Oduwa Ifokanbade
Esteemed Yoruba philosopher and storyteller.
Oduwa Uzochukwu
Actor
Oduwa Adegboye
Author
Oduwa Eze
Musician
Oduwa Afolayan
Filmmaker
Oduwa Nnaji
Visual Artist
Oduwa Ibe
Scholar
Oduwa Obafemi
Entrepreneur
Oduwa Olaniyi
Poet
Legacy of Oduwa ()
Roots of the Yoruba ()
The Oduwa Chronicles ()
Spirit of Ile-Ife ()
Oduwa: The Beginning ()
Oduwa and the Ancestors ()
Yoruba Legends ()
Oduwa's Journey ()
Oduwa
🌐Spanish
Oduwa
🌐French
Oduwa
🌐German
Oduwa
🌐Italian
オドゥワ
🌐Japanese
奥杜瓦
🌐Chinese
أودوا
🌐Arabic
Fun Fact About Oduwa
Oduwa is linked to the legendary Odùduwà, considered the mythical founder of the Yoruba kingdom, making it a name that literally means 'origin' or 'beginning' in Yoruba lore.
Personality Traits for Oduwa
Individuals named Oduwa are often associated with leadership, strength, and a deep respect for tradition. They tend to be proud, wise, and grounded, with a natural inclination toward community and preserving cultural values. The name suggests resilience and a strong sense of identity.
What does the name Oduwa mean?
Oduwa is a Yoruba name meaning “Bearer of legacy and cultural pride”. Oduwa is a name rooted in Yoruba culture, symbolizing heritage and ancestral pride. It is believed to derive from 'Odua,' the name of a legendary progenitor of the Yoruba people, representing origins and identity. Historically, the name connects to the stories of creation and leadership within West African traditions.
How do you pronounce Oduwa?
Oduwa is pronounced (IPA: oˈduːwa). It has 2 syllables with the pattern N/A.
What are nicknames for Oduwa?
Popular nicknames for Oduwa include: Odu, Duwa, Odie, Duwaa, Odo, Doo, O-D, Owa, Duwi, Oduy.
Who are famous people named Oduwa?
Famous people named Oduwa include: , , , , .
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Oduwa is a beautiful Yoruba name meaning “Bearer of legacy and cultural pride”. Oduwa is a name rooted in Yoruba culture, symbolizing heritage and ancestral pride. It is believed to derive from 'Odua,' the name of a legendary progenitor of the Yoruba people, representing origins ...
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