Find out how popular the first name Temi has been for the last 33 years (from 1991 to 2023) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Temi by gender

Based on the last 33 years of data, Temi is exclusively a female name.

For the most recent data in 2023, there were 9 female babies and 0 male babies born with the name Temi.

The history of the first name Temi

The name Temi has its origins in the Yoruba language, which is spoken primarily in southwestern Nigeria, as well as parts of Benin and Togo. The name is believed to have emerged during the medieval period, around the 12th century CE, when the Yoruba people were establishing themselves as a dominant cultural force in West Africa.

Temi is derived from the Yoruba word "temi," which means "to be sweet" or "to be pleasing." It was initially used as a descriptive term to express admiration for a child's sweet nature or pleasing demeanor. Over time, it transitioned into a proper name, reflecting the parents' hope for their child to embody these positive qualities.

One of the earliest recorded instances of the name Temi can be found in the oral traditions and folktales of the Yoruba people. These stories, passed down through generations, often featured characters with names like Temi, highlighting the cultural significance and longevity of the name.

Throughout history, several notable individuals have borne the name Temi. One such figure was Temi Olowogboyega (c. 1550-1610), a renowned warrior and leader from the Oyo Empire, who played a pivotal role in the expansion of the empire during the late 16th century.

In the realm of literature, Temi Awogbami (1908-1983) was a celebrated Yoruba poet and playwright, renowned for his contributions to the preservation and promotion of Yoruba culture through his works.

Another notable figure was Temi Agbaje (1923-2009), a Nigerian entrepreneur and philanthropist, who founded one of the country's largest conglomerates and made significant contributions to various educational and charitable initiatives.

In the field of sports, Temi Fagbenle (born 1992) is a British-Nigerian basketball player who has represented Great Britain in multiple international competitions, including the Olympic Games.

More recently, Temi Olunloyo (born 1984) is a Nigerian-American journalist and author, known for her work on social justice issues and her advocacy for marginalized communities.

These individuals, spanning different eras and fields, exemplify the enduring legacy and diverse representation of the name Temi throughout history.

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

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

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