Find out how popular the first name Iyari has been for the last 25 years (from 2000 to 2024) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Iyari by gender

Based on the last 25 years of data, Iyari is more commonly used as a female name, with approximately 97% of people named Iyari being female.

For the most recent data in 2024, there were 21 female babies and 0 male babies born with the name Iyari.

The history of the first name Iyari

The name Iyari has its origins in the Yoruba language, spoken primarily in southwestern Nigeria and parts of neighboring countries like Benin and Togo. The Yoruba people have a rich cultural heritage dating back centuries, and their naming traditions often reflect this.

Iyari is believed to be derived from the Yoruba word "iya," which means "mother" or "source." This suggests that the name may have been given to children as a way of honoring or expressing gratitude towards their mothers or maternal lineage. It could also be interpreted as a name that signifies the bearer's role as a source of life or sustenance.

While the exact origins and earliest recorded use of the name Iyari are not entirely clear, it is likely that the name has been in use among the Yoruba people for several centuries. However, there are no known references to the name in ancient texts or religious scriptures from the region.

One of the earliest recorded individuals with the name Iyari was a 19th-century Yoruba woman named Iyari Agbonmiregun, who was a prominent leader and trader in the city of Abeokuta. She played a significant role in the city's resistance against the Dahomey Kingdom's invasion in the 1840s.

Another notable figure with the name Iyari was Iyari Agbabiaka, a Yoruba chief and warrior who lived in the late 18th century. He was known for his bravery and leadership in battles against neighboring kingdoms.

In the 20th century, Iyari Ogan was a Nigerian artist and sculptor who gained recognition for her work in preserving and promoting Yoruba cultural traditions through her art. She was born in 1935 and passed away in 2011.

Iyari Akinsola, born in 1948, is a renowned Nigerian writer and academic who has contributed significantly to the study of Yoruba literature and culture. Her works have explored themes of identity, tradition, and the role of women in Yoruba society.

Iyari Adebayo, born in 1962, is a Nigerian politician and former governor of Ekiti State. He served as the governor from 2003 to 2006 and played a role in promoting education and infrastructure development in the state.

These are just a few examples of individuals throughout history who have carried the name Iyari, reflecting its deep roots in Yoruba culture and heritage.

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

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

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