Find out how popular the first name Ilesha has been for the last 4 years (from 1991 to 1994) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Ilesha by gender

Based on the last 4 years of data, Ilesha is exclusively a female name.

For the most recent data in 1994, there were 5 female babies and 0 male babies born with the name Ilesha.

The history of the first name Ilesha

The name Ilesha is believed to have originated from the Yoruba language spoken in parts of West Africa, particularly in present-day Nigeria. It is derived from the Yoruba phrase "Ile Isha," which translates to "home of the source" or "place of the source." This name is closely linked to the ancient city of Ilesa, located in the Osun State of Nigeria, which was known as a center of trade and cultural significance during the pre-colonial era.

Ilesha is a name that carries deep historical and cultural significance within the Yoruba tradition. The city of Ilesa is mentioned in various Yoruba folktales and oral traditions, often associated with the worship of the Yoruba deity Obatala, who is believed to have created the first human beings from clay. The city's name is thought to refer to the source or origin of life, as it was considered a sacred place by the Yoruba people.

One of the earliest recorded instances of the name Ilesha can be found in the historical accounts of the Oyo Empire, a prominent Yoruba kingdom that existed between the 16th and 19th centuries. Several notable individuals from this period bore the name, including Ilesha Oluwole, a renowned warrior and military leader who lived in the late 17th century.

Throughout history, the name Ilesha has been associated with various influential figures across different fields. One noteworthy individual was Ilesha Akindele (1935-2013), a Nigerian academic and linguist who made significant contributions to the study of the Yoruba language and literature. Another prominent figure was Ilesha Adejumo (1918-2002), a Nigerian politician and diplomat who served as the Minister of Foreign Affairs in the 1960s.

In the realm of arts and culture, Ilesha Adejare (1924-1999) was a renowned Nigerian artist and sculptor, known for his intricate wood carvings and traditional Yoruba designs. Ilesha Ogunlesi (1923-2008) was a celebrated Nigerian playwright and novelist, whose works explored themes of identity, tradition, and societal change.

Ilesha has also been a name associated with religious and spiritual leaders within the Yoruba tradition. Ilesha Ogundeji (1902-1987) was a prominent Yoruba priestess and spiritual leader, renowned for her knowledge of traditional rituals and practices.

Overall, the name Ilesha carries a rich cultural heritage and historical significance, rooted in the Yoruba tradition of West Africa. Its meaning and association with the ancient city of Ilesa have made it a name that symbolizes the origins of life and the importance of cultural identity.

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

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

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