Find out how popular the first name Okey has been for the last 22 years (from 1974 to 1995) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Okey by gender

Based on the last 22 years of data, Okey is exclusively a male name.

For the most recent data in 1995, there were 7 male babies and 0 female babies born with the name Okey.

The history of the first name Okey

The given name Okey is a relatively uncommon one, and its origins can be traced back to the West African region, particularly among the Igbo people of Nigeria. The name's etymology is believed to derive from the Igbo word "ọkụ," which means "fire" or "light." This connection suggests that the name may have been bestowed upon individuals with a fiery or radiant personality or perhaps those born during a significant celestial event such as a meteor shower or an eclipse.

In the Igbo culture, names often carry deep symbolic meaning and are carefully chosen to reflect the circumstances surrounding a child's birth or to express the hopes and aspirations of the parents for their offspring. The name Okey, with its connotation of light and warmth, could have been given to a child born during a particularly bright or auspicious time, or as a form of protection and guidance for their life's journey.

While the precise historical origins of the name Okey are not extensively documented, its use can be traced back several centuries within the Igbo communities of West Africa. However, it is worth noting that due to the oral tradition and limited written records from that era, specific references or mentions in ancient texts or religious scriptures are scarce.

One of the earliest recorded examples of an individual bearing the name Okey can be found in the 18th century, with Okey Nwachukwu, a prominent Igbo trader and negotiator who facilitated economic and cultural exchanges between his people and European settlers in the region. His name and legacy have been celebrated in various historical accounts and oral traditions.

In more recent times, several notable figures have carried the name Okey, including:

1. Okey Ndibe (born 1960), a renowned Nigerian novelist, poet, and memoirist, known for works such as "Arrows of Rain" and "Never Look an American in the Eye."

2. Okey Bakassi (born 1977), a popular Nigerian comedian and actor, renowned for his stand-up comedy performances and appearances in several Nollywood films.

3. Okey Ezeh (born 1972), a Nigerian-American actor and producer, best known for his roles in films like "The Brothers" and "The Smurfs."

4. Okey Chukwu (born 1992), a Nigerian professional footballer who has played for various clubs in Europe, including Brøndby IF and Randers FC.

5. Okey Onuoha (born 1981), a Nigerian-American engineer and entrepreneur, recognized for his work in developing sustainable energy solutions and promoting STEM education.

While the name Okey may not be as prevalent on a global scale, it holds significant cultural and historical significance within the Igbo community of West Africa, reflecting their rich traditions and the importance placed on names as a means of expressing identity, hopes, and aspirations.

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

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

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