Bongani
Meaningbe thankful · Zulu
Bongani is an African boy name meaning “be thankful”, with Zulu roots. A meaning like this gives a child something to grow into, and a good story to tell when someone asks about their name. It sounds flowing and melodic, it's simple to spell and say, and it pairs well with a short middle name.
Fewer than 5 US babies a year get this name, so SSA doesn't list it. That makes it truly rare.
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Popularity: U.S. Social Security Administration (babies with 5+ births per year).
About the name Bongani
Bongani is a boy name of African origin meaning “be thankful”. With 3 syllables it has a flowing, lyrical sound, so a short middle name balances it nicely. It's a rare choice in the US, so your child is unlikely to meet another Bongani at school.
Origin:African names
More African boy names
- Unisex name: Cairo · the victorious
- Unisex name: Asa · healer
- Unisex name: Zaire · river
- Boy name: Omari · long-lived
- Boy name: Ermias · form of Jeremiah
- Boy name: Jabari · brave, fearless
- Boy name: Paulo · small
- Unisex name: Amani · peace
Questions about the name Bongani
What does the name Bongani mean?
Bongani means “be thankful” and comes from Zulu. Other boy names with a similar meaning include Shakir (“thankful”), Hamed (“thankful, praising”), Shaker (“thankful”) and Siyabonga (“we are thankful”).
What is the origin of the name Bongani?
Bongani is African in origin, and its meaning traces back to Zulu. Other African names to consider are Cairo (“the victorious”), Asa (“healer”), Zaire (“river”) and Omari (“long-lived”).
Is Bongani a boy or girl name?
Bongani is a boy name.
What names are similar to Bongani?
If you like Bongani, you might also like Shakir, Hamed, Shaker and Siyabonga.
What should I know before naming my baby Bongani?
Bongani is an African boy name meaning “be thankful”, with Zulu roots. A meaning like this gives a child something to grow into, and a good story to tell when someone asks about their name. It sounds flowing and melodic, it's simple to spell and say, and it pairs well with a short middle name. Say it out loud with your last name and any middle names you're considering, and check the initials it makes.