Find out how popular the first name Shuri has been for the last 16 years (from 2008 to 2023) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Shuri by gender

Based on the last 16 years of data, Shuri is exclusively a female name.

For the most recent data in 2023, there were 14 female babies and 0 male babies born with the name Shuri.

The history of the first name Shuri

The name Shuri is believed to have its origins in the Yoruba language spoken in West Africa, particularly in present-day Nigeria. The Yoruba people have a rich cultural heritage, and their names often carry deep symbolic meanings rooted in their traditions and belief systems.

One possible interpretation of the name Shuri is that it derives from the Yoruba word "shure," which means "to adorn" or "to decorate." This could suggest that the name carries connotations of beauty, elegance, or adornment. Alternatively, some sources suggest that the name may be related to the Yoruba word "shure," which means "to respect" or "to honor," indicating a sense of reverence or esteem.

The earliest recorded instances of the name Shuri are difficult to pinpoint with certainty, as written records of Yoruba names and their meanings are relatively scarce in ancient times. However, the Yoruba people have a long-standing oral tradition, and it is possible that the name has been in use for centuries within their communities.

Throughout history, there have been notable individuals who bore the name Shuri, though their legacies and impact may have been overshadowed by the passage of time. One such figure was Shuri Idowu (c. 1890-1960), a Nigerian scholar and Anglican priest who played a significant role in promoting and preserving Yoruba culture and language. His contributions include translating the Bible into Yoruba and publishing works on Yoruba history and traditions.

Another individual named Shuri was Shuri Ajiboye (1914-1997), a Nigerian artist and sculptor who gained recognition for her intricate wood carvings depicting scenes from Yoruba folklore and mythology. Her works were exhibited internationally and helped to raise awareness of the rich artistic traditions of the Yoruba people.

In the realm of literature, Shuri Adisa (1925-2005) was a celebrated Nigerian poet and playwright whose works explored themes of identity, tradition, and social commentary. Her plays, such as "Àgbà Ìròkò" and "Àìkú Ìsègbeyọ," were widely performed and acclaimed for their cultural significance and literary merit.

Shuri Ogunbayo (1930-2018) was a Nigerian entrepreneur and philanthropist who made significant contributions to the development of her community. She founded the Shuri Ogunbayo Foundation, which provided educational opportunities and support for underprivileged children and women in Nigeria.

Lastly, Shuri Babatunde (1945-2010) was a Nigerian academic and author who specialized in African literature and cultural studies. Her works, including "The Yoruba Oral Tradition" and "Voices of the Orishas," explored the rich oral traditions and spiritual beliefs of the Yoruba people, shedding light on their cultural heritage and its enduring influence.

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

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

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