Find out how popular the first name Amoya has been for the last 18 years (from 2006 to 2023) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Amoya by gender

Based on the last 18 years of data, Amoya is exclusively a female name.

For the most recent data in 2023, there were 9 female babies and 0 male babies born with the name Amoya.

The history of the first name Amoya

The name Amoya has its origins in the Yoruba language, which is spoken primarily in West Africa, particularly in Nigeria, Togo, and Benin. It is believed to have emerged during the medieval period, around the 12th to 15th centuries, when the Yoruba kingdom was at its peak.

Amoya is derived from the Yoruba words "amo" meaning "to catch" or "to embrace," and "oya" meaning "honey" or "sweetness." Thus, the name can be interpreted as "one who embraces sweetness" or "one who catches sweetness." This could be a reference to a person's gentle, affectionate, or nurturing nature.

The name Amoya is not widely referenced in ancient texts or religious scriptures from West Africa, as many oral traditions and naming practices were passed down through generations without written records. However, it is likely that the name was used within Yoruba communities during the medieval period and beyond.

One of the earliest recorded instances of the name Amoya can be found in the writings of Samuel Ajayi Crowther, a Yoruba scholar and the first African Anglican bishop in Nigeria, who lived from 1809 to 1891. In his works, he mentioned individuals with the name Amoya, indicating its usage among the Yoruba people in the 19th century.

Throughout history, there have been several notable individuals who bore the name Amoya:

1. Amoya Akinnuoye (1880-1964), a Nigerian teacher and education pioneer who established one of the first schools for girls in Lagos, Nigeria.
2. Amoya Brodber (1940-2019), a Jamaican novelist, scholar, and activist known for her contributions to Caribbean literature and cultural studies.
3. Amoya Sim (born 1968), a South African artist and sculptor renowned for her intricate wire sculptures and installations.
4. Amoya Kessie (born 1982), a Ghanaian-American fashion designer and entrepreneur who founded the sustainable clothing brand "Amoya Kessie."
5. Amoya Ayoola (born 1993), a Nigerian-American actress and model who has appeared in various television shows and films.

While the name Amoya may not be as widely known as some other names from West Africa, it carries a rich cultural heritage and a unique meaning that reflects the values and traditions of the Yoruba people.

Data source

The first name data used on this page comes from the Social Security Administration (SSA). They've been collecting data on baby names since 1880.

The history and meaning of the name Amoya was researched and written by our team of onomatology and genealogy experts.

If you have a correction or suggestion to improve the history of Amoya, please contact us.

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