Rotimi
Meaningstay with me · Yoruba
Rotimi is an African boy name meaning “stay with me”, with Yoruba roots. Yoruba names often tell a story, such as the circumstances of a child's birth or a family's hopes. 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.
Did you know?
- GenerationRotimi peaked in 1986, which makes it a Millennial name. The typical Rotimi you'd meet today is about 39 years old.
- HistoryRotimi first shows up in US birth records in 1986, the first year at least 5 babies got it. It has been in use for 39 years since.
US births per million boys, 1986–2025
Save adds it to your list. Vote moves it up the top voted names.
Popularity: U.S. Social Security Administration (babies with 5+ births per year).
About the name Rotimi
Rotimi is a boy name of African origin meaning “stay with me”. With 3 syllables it has a flowing, lyrical sound, so a short middle name balances it nicely. It hit its peak in the 1980s, so it feels familiar without being trendy. It's rarely heard today, so it stands out while still being a real, established name.
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 Rotimi
What does the name Rotimi mean?
Rotimi means “stay with me” and comes from Yoruba.
What is the origin of the name Rotimi?
Rotimi is African in origin, and its meaning traces back to Yoruba. Other African names to consider are Cairo (“the victorious”), Asa (“healer”), Zaire (“river”) and Omari (“long-lived”).
Is Rotimi a boy or girl name?
Rotimi is a boy name.
How popular is the name Rotimi?
Rotimi is rare: fewer than 5 US boys got it in 2025, and it was last given to 5 or more in 2022. It peaked at #6,721 in 1986, so it's a name with history that few kids share today.
What should I know before naming my baby Rotimi?
Rotimi is an African boy name meaning “stay with me”, with Yoruba roots. Yoruba names often tell a story, such as the circumstances of a child's birth or a family's hopes. 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.