Find out how popular the first name Marietou has been for the last 11 years (from 2009 to 2019) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Marietou by gender

Based on the last 11 years of data, Marietou is exclusively a female name.

For the most recent data in 2019, there were 5 female babies and 0 male babies born with the name Marietou.

The history of the first name Marietou

The given name Marietou has its origins rooted in the Wolof language, spoken primarily in Senegal, Gambia, and Mauritania. It is a compound name that combines the French name Marie with the Wolof suffix "-tou," which means "little" or "dear." This name likely emerged during the period of French colonization in West Africa, reflecting the cultural exchange and influence between the French and Wolof people.

The earliest recorded instances of the name Marietou can be traced back to the late 19th and early 20th centuries, when it gained popularity among Wolof families living in French-controlled regions. One of the earliest known individuals to bear this name was Marietou Diop, a Senegalese woman born in the late 1800s, who played a significant role in preserving and promoting Wolof cultural traditions.

Throughout history, several notable individuals have carried the name Marietou. One such figure was Marietou Mbaye, a Senegalese writer and activist born in 1929, who advocated for women's rights and education in her country. Another remarkable Marietou was Marietou Diallo, a Guinean artist born in 1953, renowned for her intricate textile designs and contributions to the preservation of traditional weaving techniques.

In the realm of politics, Marietou Sarr, a Senegalese politician born in 1962, served as the Minister of Family and National Solidarity from 2001 to 2004, working towards the empowerment of women and children. Additionally, Marietou Toure, a Malian singer and songwriter born in 1972, gained widespread acclaim for her soulful voice and powerful lyrics that celebrated African identity and cultural heritage.

While the name Marietou has its roots in West Africa, it has also gained recognition and popularity in other parts of the world, particularly among communities with ties to the Francophone regions of Africa. Its enduring presence serves as a testament to the rich cultural tapestry woven by the intersection of French and Wolof influences, carrying with it a sense of warmth, familiarity, and a deep connection to the traditions of West Africa.

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

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

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