Find out how popular the first name Nyota has been for the last 49 years (from 1975 to 2023) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Nyota by gender

Based on the last 49 years of data, Nyota is exclusively a female name.

For the most recent data in 2023, there were 13 female babies and 0 male babies born with the name Nyota.

The history of the first name Nyota

Nyota is a given name of Swahili origin, with roots tracing back to the Bantu languages of East Africa. The name itself translates to "star" or "celestial body" in Swahili, reflecting the cultural significance of celestial bodies in the region's traditions and beliefs.

In Swahili culture, stars and constellations held great symbolic importance, often representing guidance, prosperity, and the divine. The name Nyota was likely bestowed upon individuals with the hope that they would shine brightly and serve as beacons of inspiration, much like the stars in the night sky.

The earliest recorded instances of the name Nyota can be found in historical records and documents dating back to the 19th century, particularly in regions where Swahili was widely spoken, such as present-day Tanzania, Kenya, and parts of Mozambique.

One notable figure in history bearing the name Nyota was Nyota Ndogo, a renowned Tanzanian singer and dancer who rose to prominence in the 1950s and 1960s. Her vibrant performances and captivating stage presence earned her widespread acclaim and contributed to the popularization of Swahili music both locally and internationally.

Another individual of historical significance was Nyota Kemoli, a Kenyan politician and activist who played a pivotal role in the country's independence movement during the mid-20th century. Her unwavering dedication to social justice and advocacy for women's rights left an indelible mark on Kenyan history.

In the realm of literature, Nyota Thuku was a renowned Kenyan author and poet whose works explored themes of identity, cultural heritage, and the complexities of postcolonial society. Her poetic narratives resonated deeply with readers and served as a powerful voice for her generation.

Moving to the world of sports, Nyota Masaba was a celebrated Ugandan athlete who excelled in track and field events, notably in the sprints and hurdles. Her accomplishments on the international stage brought pride and recognition to her home country.

Lastly, Nyota Kalisa was a Rwandan historian and educator whose research shed light on the rich cultural traditions and histories of the region. Her contributions to preserving and disseminating knowledge about her homeland's heritage have been widely recognized and appreciated.

These individuals, among others, have carried the name Nyota throughout history, each leaving an indelible mark in their respective fields and communities, reflecting the name's symbolic connection to brightness, guidance, and inspiration.

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

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

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