Find out how popular the first name Anele has been for the last 21 years (from 2003 to 2023) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Anele by gender

Based on the last 21 years of data, Anele is exclusively a female name.

For the most recent data in 2023, there were 6 female babies and 0 male babies born with the name Anele.

The history of the first name Anele

The name Anele is of Zulu origin, derived from the Nguni language spoken by the Zulu people of South Africa. It dates back to the early 19th century when the Zulu kingdom was established under the leadership of Shaka Zulu.

Anele is a Zulu name that means "enough" or "sufficient," conveying a sense of contentment and gratitude. It is often given to children as a reminder to appreciate what they have and not to be overly ambitious or greedy.

One of the earliest recorded instances of the name Anele can be found in the oral traditions and praise poetry of the Zulu people, where it was used to honor individuals who exhibited humility and modesty.

In the 20th century, the name gained wider recognition and popularity, particularly among the Zulu community in South Africa. Notable historical figures who bore the name Anele include:

1. Anele Shange (1935-2021), a renowned South African poet, and author known for her works that explored themes of identity, feminism, and social justice.

2. Anele Ngcongca (1987-2020), a South African professional soccer player who played as a defender for various clubs, including Mamelodi Sundowns and the South African national team.

3. Anele Mdoda (born 1984), a South African radio personality, television presenter, and actress who has hosted several popular shows and received numerous awards for her work in the entertainment industry.

4. Anele Qaba (born 1989), a South African professional rugby player who has played for the Sharks and the Springboks, South Africa's national rugby team.

5. Anele Siswana (born 1989), a South African actress and model best known for her roles in various television series, including "Generations," "Isidingo," and "The Queen."

While the name Anele has its roots in the Zulu culture, it has gained popularity across different regions of South Africa and among various communities, transcending its linguistic and cultural boundaries.

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 Anele was researched and written by our team of onomatology and genealogy experts.

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

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