Find out how popular the first name Iya has been for the last 33 years (from 1991 to 2023) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Iya by gender

Based on the last 33 years of data, Iya is exclusively a female name.

For the most recent data in 2023, there were 21 female babies and 0 male babies born with the name Iya.

The history of the first name Iya

The name Iya traces its origins to West Africa, particularly the Yoruba people of present-day Nigeria. It is believed to have derived from the Yoruba word "iyá," which means "mother." This name is steeped in cultural significance and has been in use for centuries.

One of the earliest recorded instances of the name Iya can be found in the Odu Ifa, a sacred literary corpus of the Yoruba religion. This ancient text, dating back to the 16th century, mentions Iya as a powerful and revered figure, often associated with motherhood, fertility, and nurturing qualities.

In the 18th century, Iya gained prominence as the name of a legendary Yoruba warrior and leader, Iya Abibatu. She was renowned for her bravery and strategic military prowess, leading her forces to several victories against neighboring kingdoms. Iya Abibatu's legacy has been celebrated in oral traditions and folklore, cementing her place in Yoruba history.

Another notable figure bearing the name Iya was Iya Opolopo, a 19th-century Yoruba priestess and healer. She was highly respected for her extensive knowledge of traditional medicine and her ability to commune with the spiritual realm. Iya Opolopo's influence extended beyond her community, and she is remembered as a powerful and influential figure in Yoruba spiritual practices.

In the realm of literature, Iya has been the name of several fictional characters. One of the most famous is Iya Kozigo, the protagonist of the critically acclaimed novel "The Famished Road" by Nigerian author Ben Okri (born in 1959). Iya Kozigo's struggles and resilience in the face of adversity have resonated with readers worldwide.

Moving into the 20th century, Iya Villonga (1904-1989) was a renowned Yoruba artist and sculptor. Her intricate carvings and sculptures depicted various aspects of Yoruba culture, including religious ceremonies, daily life, and traditional attire. Iya Villonga's works have been exhibited in prestigious museums and galleries, showcasing the richness of Yoruba artistic expression.

While the name Iya has its roots in the Yoruba culture, it has transcended its origins and gained recognition in various parts of the world. Its deep-rooted connection to motherhood and nurturing qualities has made it a popular choice for parents seeking a name with cultural significance and positive connotations.

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

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

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