Find out how popular the first name Chidi has been for the last 43 years (from 1981 to 2023) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Chidi by gender

Based on the last 43 years of data, Chidi is exclusively a male name.

For the most recent data in 2023, there were 5 male babies and 0 female babies born with the name Chidi.

The history of the first name Chidi

The name Chidi is of Igbo origin, an ethnic group primarily found in southeastern Nigeria. It is believed to have emerged during the late medieval period, around the 15th or 16th century CE. The name is derived from the Igbo word "chi," which translates to "god" or "spiritual force," and "di," meaning "enduring" or "everlasting." Thus, the name Chidi can be interpreted as "God endures" or "God is everlasting."

One of the earliest recorded instances of the name Chidi can be found in the oral traditions and folktales of the Igbo people, which have been passed down through generations. These stories often featured characters with names like Chidi, reflecting the cultural significance and spiritual beliefs of the Igbo community.

Throughout history, several notable individuals have borne the name Chidi. One such figure was Chidi Ilogu (c. 1850-1920), a prominent Igbo trader and diplomat who played a crucial role in facilitating trade and diplomacy between the Igbo people and the British colonial authorities in the late 19th century.

Another notable Chidi was Chidi Achebe (1901-1986), a Nigerian author and playwright who wrote extensively about Igbo culture and traditions. His works, including plays like "Things Fall Apart" and "Arrow of God," provided valuable insights into the Igbo way of life and helped preserve their cultural heritage.

In the realm of sports, Chidi Nwanu (born 1975) is a retired Nigerian footballer who played as a striker for various clubs in Europe, including Borussia Dortmund and Fenerbahçe. He also represented the Nigerian national team and participated in the 1998 FIFA World Cup.

Chidi Okereke (born 1976) is a Nigerian-American writer and academic. He is known for his critically acclaimed novel "Freshwater," which explores themes of identity, mental illness, and spirituality. The book was a finalist for the Center for Fiction First Novel Prize and the PEN/Robert W. Bingham Prize for Debut Fiction.

Chidi Odinkalu (born 1966) is a Nigerian lawyer and human rights activist. He has served as the chairman of the National Human Rights Commission of Nigeria and has been actively involved in promoting human rights and advocating for social justice in Nigeria and across Africa.

While the name Chidi has its roots in the Igbo culture of Nigeria, it has gained recognition and popularity beyond its place of origin, transcending cultural boundaries and becoming a part of the diverse tapestry of names worldwide.

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

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

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