Find out how popular the first name Idi has been for the last 1 years (from 1977 to 1977) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Idi by gender

Based on the last 1 years of data, Idi is exclusively a male name.

For the most recent data in 1977, there were 9 male babies and 0 female babies born with the name Idi.

The history of the first name Idi

The name Idi is believed to have originated from the Nilotic language family spoken in parts of East Africa, particularly in Uganda. The etymology of the name is thought to be derived from the word "idi," meaning "to lead" or "to rule" in some Nilotic languages.

One of the earliest recorded uses of the name Idi dates back to the 19th century in Uganda, where it was borne by several individuals of prominent families and clans. It is believed that the name gained popularity among certain ethnic groups in the region due to its association with leadership and authority.

Historically, the name Idi has been associated with several notable figures. One of the most infamous bearers of the name was Idi Amin Dada (1925-2003), a former military officer who served as the President of Uganda from 1971 to 1979. His brutal and oppressive regime was marked by human rights atrocities and economic mismanagement, earning him the nickname "the Butcher of Uganda."

Another notable figure named Idi was Idi Illi (c. 1760-1816), a Somali ruler and poet who is credited with establishing the Geledi Sultanate in present-day Somalia. His poetry and writings have had a significant influence on Somali literature and culture.

In the early 20th century, Idi Artan (1898-1931) was a prominent Somali leader and anti-colonial activist who played a crucial role in the Somali resistance against Italian colonization. He is regarded as a national hero in Somalia for his efforts to defend the country's sovereignty.

In the realm of sports, Idi Amin Daud (born 1989) is a Ugandan professional footballer who has represented the Ugandan national team and played for various clubs in Africa and Asia.

Idi Amin Saleh (born 1983) is another Ugandan footballer who has played for several clubs in Uganda and Kenya, earning recognition for his skills and contributions to the sport in the region.

While the name Idi may have historical and cultural significance in certain parts of East Africa, its use and popularity have been overshadowed by the notoriety of Idi Amin Dada's brutal regime. However, it continues to be borne by individuals in the region, carrying the weight of its etymology and the legacies of those who have held the name throughout history.

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

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

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