Find out how popular the first name Dami has been for the last 6 years (from 1991 to 1996) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Dami by gender

Based on the last 6 years of data, Dami is exclusively a female name.

For the most recent data in 1996, there were 5 female babies and 0 male babies born with the name Dami.

The history of the first name Dami

The name Dami originated from the Yoruba language spoken in southwestern Nigeria and parts of neighboring countries like Benin and Togo. It is believed to have first emerged during the 15th century when the Yoruba people were at the height of their cultural and political influence in the region.

Dami is derived from the Yoruba word "dami," which translates to "sweet" or "pleasant." It was likely initially given as a name to express a wish for a child to have a sweet or pleasant disposition or personality. The name was commonly used among the Yoruba people, particularly in the areas of modern-day Oyo, Osun, and Ekiti states in Nigeria.

One of the earliest recorded mentions of the name Dami can be found in the Ifa corpus, a collection of oral traditions and divination verses central to the Yoruba religion. In these texts, Dami is referenced as a praise name or oriki, highlighting its cultural significance.

Throughout history, several notable individuals have borne the name Dami. One of the earliest recorded figures was Dami Agbabiaka (c. 1600-1670), a powerful Yoruba merchant and diplomat who played a crucial role in facilitating trade between the Oyo Empire and European traders on the West African coast.

Another historical figure with the name Dami was Dami Ogunderu (c. 1780-1840), a renowned Yoruba warrior and military leader who fought in the Yoruba Wars of the early 19th century. His prowess on the battlefield earned him respect and admiration among his people.

In the realm of literature, Dami Ajayi (1887-1962) was a prominent Yoruba writer and poet who made significant contributions to the preservation and promotion of Yoruba culture through his works. His poetry and prose pieces explored themes of Yoruba identity, tradition, and heritage.

Moving into the 20th century, Dami Adeyemi (1921-1998) was a Nigerian politician and statesman who served as the first civilian governor of Oyo State after the country's independence from British rule. He played a pivotal role in shaping the political landscape of the region during a crucial period in Nigeria's history.

Finally, Dami Adesanya (1953-present) is a contemporary Nigerian artist and sculptor who has gained international recognition for his work. His sculptures, often made from wood and metal, explore themes of African culture, spirituality, and the human condition.

These are just a few examples of individuals who have carried the name Dami throughout history, showcasing its rich cultural heritage and significance within the Yoruba community and beyond.

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

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

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