Tapela Kgosi
A respected Tswana tribal chief known for uniting several clans in the 19th century.
IPA Pronunciation
/tษหหpษlษ/
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Syllables
Tapela originates from the Southern African Tswana language, where it is often given to boys and means 'one who is gifted with strength and wisdom.' The name combines elements of power and intellect, reflecting cultural values that honor bravery and knowledge. Historically, it has been used among Tswana-speaking communities to signify a child destined for leadership and respect.
Cultural Significance of Tapela
In Tswana culture, names are deeply symbolic and chosen to reflect the child's expected traits or circumstances of birth. Tapela, meaning gifted with strength and wisdom, is a name that carries honor and responsibility. It is often bestowed to inspire resilience and leadership, aligning with traditional values of community and respect. The name has been used for generations, maintaining its importance in modern times as a bridge between heritage and contemporary identity.
Tapela Name Popularity in 2025
Today, the name Tapela remains popular in Botswana and neighboring regions where Tswana is spoken. It is increasingly embraced by parents who wish to preserve cultural identity while giving their sons a name that evokes strength and intellect. While not common globally, Tapela has seen a modest rise in use beyond Africa due to diaspora communities and the global interest in unique, meaningful names with African roots.
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International Variations10
๐ค
More Boy Names Starting With T10
Name Energy & Essence
The name Tapela carries the essence of โGifted with strength and wisdomโ from Tswana tradition. Names beginning with "T" often embody qualities of truth-seeking, tenacity, and transformation.
Symbolism
Cultural Significance
In Tswana culture, names are deeply symbolic and chosen to reflect the child's expected traits or circumstances of birth. Tapela, meaning gifted with strength and wisdom, is a name that carries honor and responsibility. It is often bestowed to inspire resilience and leadership, aligning with traditional values of community and respect. The name has been used for generations, maintaining its importance in modern times as a bridge between heritage and contemporary identity.
Tapela Motsamai
A prominent Tswana elder and storyteller who preserved oral histories of the Bakgatla tribe.
Tapela Selelo
A 20th-century activist who promoted education and cultural pride among Tswana youth.
Tapela Dintwe
Author
Tapela Molapo
Politician
Tapela Ndlovu
Musician
The Spirit of the Kalahari ()
Botswana Rising ()
Voices of the Savannah ()
Tapela
๐Spanish
Tapela
๐French
Tapela
๐German
Tapela
๐Italian
ใฟใใฉ
๐Japanese
ๅกไฝฉๆ
๐Chinese
ุชุงุจููุง
๐Arabic
Fun Fact About Tapela
The name Tapela is rarely found outside of Southern Africa, making it a unique and meaningful choice for parents seeking a distinctive African name with deep cultural roots.
Personality Traits for Tapela
Individuals named Tapela are often perceived as strong-willed, intelligent, and dependable. They tend to be natural leaders with a calm demeanor and a thoughtful approach to challenges. Tapelas are known for their resilience and ability to inspire others, valuing wisdom as much as courage. They often display a balanced personality combining determination with empathy.
What does the name Tapela mean?
Tapela is a Tswana name meaning โGifted with strength and wisdomโ. Tapela originates from the Southern African Tswana language, where it is often given to boys and means 'one who is gifted with strength and wisdom.' The name combines elements of power and intellect, reflecting cultural values that honor bravery and knowledge. Historically, it has been used among Tswana-speaking communities to signify a child destined for leadership and respect.
How do you pronounce Tapela?
Tapela is pronounced (IPA: /tษหหpษlษ/). It has 2 syllables with the pattern N/A.
What are nicknames for Tapela?
Popular nicknames for Tapela include: Tapi, Pela, Taps, Tappy, Tae, Pel, T-Tap, Lala, Taz, Tappy-T.
Who are famous people named Tapela?
Famous people named Tapela include: , , , Tapela Dintwe, Tapela Molapo.
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Tapela is a beautiful Tswana name meaning โGifted with strength and wisdomโ. Tapela originates from the Southern African Tswana language, where it is often given to boys and means 'one who is gifted with strength and wisdom.' The name combines elements of power and intellect, ...
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