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Sotho or Sepedi is a language spoken by the Bantu ethnic group native to Botswana, Lesotho, and Southern Africa. With a vast culture, heritage, and tradition, the Sepedi baby names offer and reflect the thoughts of the Sotho elderly and ancestors. The Sothos take the baby naming tradition seriously as they believe that these names shape an individual’s character. Their names are gender-specific and are selected after careful deliberations with many family elders. Take a peek at the Sotho or Sepedian meaningful baby names to find the one you find endearing for your baby.
Key Pointers
- Sepedi or Sotho is a language spoken by a group of Bantu living in Southern Africa, Lesotho, and Botswana.
- Several attributes, such as victory, wisdom, and kindness, can be found in names such as Nthabiseng (make me happy), Mojave (victor), and Matseliso (consolation).
- Sepedi names for boys and girls often draw inspiration from religious beliefs and the beauty of nature.
- Many names represent intriguing elements of the culture and history of the native speakers of the language.
Sotho Culture- An Overview
Lesotho, also called the Kingdom of Lesotho, is a small country in southern Africa, surrounded almost entirely by South Africa. The term Lesotho translates into “the land of the people who speak Sesotho”.
The Lesotho people follow some rites and rituals following the birth of the baby. If the first-born is a girl, the father is soaked in water. And if the firstborn is a boy, the father is beaten with a stick. The ritual suggests that the life of a female is occupied with domestic duties like fetching water, and life of males is occupied by warfare. For up to three months, the child is secluded with the mother in a hut.
In Lesotho, names are more than a word. The name given to a baby signifies something about the day she/he was born or an attribute the parents would like the child to have, such as wisdom, courage, patience, kindness, generosity, or humility. Parents often choose a name for their child after thoughtful discussions with family elders, as the name represents the child’s identity and determines the kind of person the child will become. The people of Lesotho strongly believe that names deeply influence a person’s character.
Below is our collection of Sesotho baby names for boys and girls.
Top Sotho Names For Girls With Meanings
1. Sesi
Sesi is a cute and friendly name, meaning ‘sister.’ The double‘s’ in this name gives it an element of uniqueness.
2. Nyakallo
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The arrival of a newborn fills the family with immense joy and is believed to bring prosperity. So why not give your bundle of joy a name that nods to this emotion? Nyakallo means ‘joy.’
3. Letsha
Letsha would make a wonderful choice for parents looking for a nature-inspired name for their daughters. It’s relaxed and casual and does not sound restricted to any region or country.
4. Atile
This moniker, meaning ‘increasing family’ is used mildly by the people of Lesotho, so use it becomes too familiar. The option of Attie as the nickname makes this name even more endearing.
5. Mosa
This moniker, meaning ‘grace’ invokes lofty and sublime images of harmony and peace.
6. Bina
There is something absolutely dignifying about this name, meaning ‘to dance or freshness.’ The usage of this name has slowly, but steadily increased in the last decade.
7. Baatsheba
Bathsheba is the Sotho form of the name Bathsheba. In the Bible, Bathsheba was the name of the beautiful daughter of King Solomon and wife of King David.
8. Khauhelo
This feminine name means ‘compassion, forgiveness, or pity.’ The crisp and elegant sound adds a new dimension to this name. What nickname do you think would go best with this one?
9. Bertha
Bertha is a lovely Sepedi name that means ‘bright.’ This moniker was borne by Bertha Motlogelwa Ledwaba, the civilian secretariat of South Africa. It’s also represented by the French Impressionist painter, but in its English form.
10. Bokang
Bokang is a charming name with Sotho ancestry. And with meaning ‘rejoice or praise’, your little darling is sure to receive praises lifelong.
11. Ntsoaki
This cute name, meaning ‘girl amongst boys’ is usually given to a daughter with several brothers. It’s pretty and sounds feminine and contemporary.
12. Pula
Puleng is a super cute Sotho girl name meaning ‘in or during the rain.’ You can consider Pula as its pet name, which also happens to be the same.
13. Tlhokomelo
This name is unique, different and has a lovely meaning ‘care’, but we’re not sure many people can pronounce it correctly. You can try shortening it to Tlhoko if you want.
14. Mosela
This feminine name means ‘tail,’ which is idiomatically ‘the last child or the last one.’ So you can consider using this name for your last child.
15. Nthabiseng
This name is yet to prove its staying power in the English-speaking countries, probably because of its spelling. The meaning of Nthabiseng is ‘make me happy’.
16. Tlotliso
This name, with a lovely ring, would make a good choice for parents who prefer appealing sound over substance or spelling for that matter. Tlotliso means ‘honor.’
17. Dineo
This lovely name is sweet and simple, and we’re not surprised by its popularity in South Africa. The meaning of Dineo is ‘gifts or talents’ and is given to a child with multiple skills and the one who has an ambition to attain numerous achievements.
18. Tebello
This moniker is the most straightforward. So it will probably appeal to parents who are rooted to their customs, values, and beliefs and prefer simple instead of flashy names. Tebello means ‘expectation.’
19. Ramatla
This moniker is headed to be one of the most used Sotho names. Its nickname, Remy, has become an independent given name in its own right. The meaning of Ramatla is ‘strength’ and is given to a man who is focused on his education, career, and future.
20. Palesa
If you are tired of using the same old floral monikers like Lily and Daisy for your daughter, go with Palesa this time, which means ‘flower.’
21. Liseho
Liseho, meaning ‘laughter,’ may have never made it to the popularity charts, but we have a feeling that it soon will. The name is perfect for your child who values celebrations with their community.
22. Naleli
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Despite the advancement of this name on the charts, Naleli has not yet managed to secure a place in the Social Security Administration list. At least, you can be assured that your child would have to share this bright and twinkling name with anyone in her school. Naleli means ‘star.’
Did you know?23. Matseliso
This moniker, meaning ‘consolation,’ debuted with much success in the South African region, including Lesotho. Scores of girls are named Matseliso in Lesotho and its surrounding areas.
24. Mpho
Don’t you think this name meaning ‘gift,’ sounds a lot like a Chinese name? We love the etymology of this name. After all, your daughter is the greatest gift for you, right.
25. Lindelani
Lindelani has a romantic quality and sophisticated flair to it. You also have the option to shorten it to Linda, one of the most familiar names in America. Lindelani means ‘be patient.’
26. Mathapelo
Mathapelo is sassy, feminine and debonair. It brings to mind an elegant girl with a paintbrush in hand and canvas in front. The meaning of Mathapelo is ‘mother of prayer’.
27. Moipone
A baby with this name is sure to be the one with a narcissistic personality. And what’s even wrong with loving yourself? Moipone is a Sotho name, meaning ‘self-admirer.’
28. Lisebo
Lisebo is slightly nerdy, but in a charming way. You can use the nickname Lea for Lisebo to enhance the nerd factor. The meaning of Lisebo is ‘whisper’.
29. Bongi
Bongi is a short form of Sibongile, but is used widely as the given name in Lesotho. Bongi Makeba, the South African singer, and songwriter is the famous bearer of this name.
30. Bonolo
Bonolo is a perennially popular female name for Lesotho and means ‘ease.’ This one has the potential to appeal to parents looking for an original name.
31. Keneoue
Keneoue is a sophisticated girl’s name, translating to ‘I have been given’. This moniker exited the top 1000 list a decade ago and is no longer super trendy. So pick it if you want a unique name for your daughter.
32. Libiko
Libiko is a girl’s name of Lesotho origins and means ‘praises’, what your kid will get in bundles after her birth.
33. Dipuo
Dipuo, meaning ‘rumor’ will make a great name for your little girl. You just need to get past its strange meaning before that. And for the nickname, you just need to snip the ‘o’.
34. Masimong
Masimong is a beautiful and wholesome name with a southern appeal. It’s different and exotic, but not totally strange or uncommon. Masimong means ‘at the field.’
35. Mesea
Mesea is a well-used Sotho name, meaning ‘smoke.’ It’s strong, decisive and unique. You can use Mesi as its nickname.
36. Lebadi
There is something very affirming about this name, probably because of its meaning ‘birthmark’. It will appeal to parents who are not afraid of going against the grain.
37. Lebone
There is absolutely nothing not to like in this Sotho baby girl name. And the lovely meaning ‘candle or light’ makes it even more marvelous. Children do fill the lives of parents with light, just like the candle.
38. Ausi
After years of obscurity, this name has finally begun to see moderate levels of usage. And with such a meaning (‘sister’), it will sound great on any girl.
39. Futsana
If you want something modern, something different, and something lovely, pick Futsana, which means ‘to look alike.’ We’d suggest this name to parents expecting girl-girl twins.
40. Buang
Buang is a delightful name with a fun meaning (chat).
41. Benya
Benya is a happy name for a happy girl. It means ‘to be bright and to shine’. It’s dainty, yet confident and strong.
42. Tsepiso
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If you are looking for an original name with a positive meaning, Tsepiso would make a nice pick. Tspeiso means ‘promise’.
43. Diboko
This moniker has an exotic African ring to it, isn’t it? Meaning ‘praises’, Diboko also has loads of variety in terms of short forms and nicknames, for instance Debby.
44. Dintle
Dintle, meaning ‘beauty’ is neglected and not much used. So it will make a good pick for parents looking for an African name with a ‘beautiful’ meaning.
45. Ratsebo
Here’s another lovely sounding Sotho name to consider for your little princess. There’s also the option of using Rita as the nickname. The meaning of Ratsebo is knowledge’.
46. Basetsana
Basetsana is a Sotho word translating to ‘ladies’. This moniker conjures a sense of innocence and youthfulness, which we believe are lovely notions to impart through the name choice.
47. Lineo
This moniker, meaning ‘grants’ is at the forefront of popularity, probably because of its easy spelling and pronunciation. It will work as a nice twist to the name Lina.
48. Ramatla
Ramatla is poetically charming and delicately sophisticated. It appears to be going up the charts since the turn of the century. The meaning of Ramatla is ‘strength’.
49. Mantso
There is something vulnerably beautiful about Mantso, which makes it oh-so appealing. Mantso means ‘the dark one’.
50. Tebatso
Tebatso has a beautiful, sing-along quality that draws us towards this name. The meaning of Tebatso is ‘distraction’.
51. Arabang
Arabang is a poetic and feminine name, meaning ‘reply’.
Did you know?Top Sotho Names For Boys With Meanings
52. Tuma
This moniker, which was stylish for decades, is now inching back into favor, probably because of its friendly sound. The only concern is its similarity with tuna, as in the fish. Tuma means ‘immortal’.
53. Addington
This English name is used widely in Lesotho. It’s derived either from the Old English name Eaddingtūn, which means ‘Eadda’s town’ or Æddingtūn.
54. Kananelo
We all know how proud parents feel when their child is appreciated by someone. So here’s a name for the pride of your life. Kananelo is a Sotho baby boy name, meaning ‘appreciation’.
55. Tlhokomela
Tlhokomela, meaning ‘care’ is staid and vigorous, yet current and fresh. If it were an American name, it would have definitely been on the top 100 list.
56. Khosi
Khosi is a trendy and edgy S name, meaning ‘king’ in the Sesotho language. Its popularity in Lesotho shows that a name does not need to be proper or stuffy to be loved by people.
57. Tlali
This Sotho name, meaning ‘lightening’ has a hardy and strong feel to it. And it’s easy to spell and pronounce too!
58. Dino
Did you know that Dean Martin was born as Dino Paul Crocetti? Yes, Dino is as famous in the English world as it is in Lesotho. But the meanings differ. The Sotho meaning of Dino is ‘spearman’.
59. Teboho
Teboho is extremely versatile. It could be both, a strong and silent type or a true, tough guy. This masculine name means ‘gratitude’.
60. Thuso
You cannot go wrong choosing this perennial favorite name for your child. It means ‘help’.
61. Matsimela
Matsimela would make a great pick for parents who want an approachable name that isn’t very traditional. It means ‘roots’.
62. Kamohelo
Kamohelo is great! It really is! While most of the top baby names are simple and sweet, Kamohelo boasts four syllables. It means ‘welcome or acceptance’.
63. Thapelo
This Sotho name, meaning ‘help’ is on an upswing right now. It would make an excellent middle name too!
64. Litsehoana
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We love Litsehoana for its timeless and multicultural appeal. This adorable name means ‘little laughter’. And please do not try to shorten this name.
65. Rapula
Here’s a lovely nature-inspired name for your son. Rapula means ‘father of rain or giver of rain’ in Lesotho mythology.
66. Lebohang
This moniker, meaning ‘be thankful’, sounds worldly and sophisticated. It will forever remind your child to be grateful to God for everything that happens in his life.
67. Mohavi
Do you like the name Victor, but hate that it’s too common? Then you can pick Mohavi, which means ‘victor’ in the Lesotho language.
68. Lewatle
Same with Lewatle. If you want an uncommon variation of the name Oceanus, pick Lewatle, which means ‘ocean’.
69. Letsatsi
This moniker exudes determination, confidence and poise, just like the mighty sun. The meaning of Letsatsi is ‘sun’.
70. Katleho
Katleho is a rarely used name, meaning ‘success’. With this name, you can be assured that your child will always walk on the path of ‘success’.
71. Kutloisiso
Kutloisiso is a charming name that’s been climbing the popularity since a decade and a half. It means ‘understanding’.
72. Kabelo
If you want a macho, but less fussy name for your child, Kabelo would be perfect. The meaning of Kabelo is ‘given’.
73. Moshoeshoe
Do you want a name with a regal ring? Then pick Moshoeshoe, which means ‘South African king’. The concern is that this name could be a bit of a load for a modern boy to carry.
74. Amohelang
Even though Amohelang is a Sotho name, it isn’t restricted to this region only. It’s used widely all over South Africa. The meaning of Amohelang is ‘receive’.
75. Tlotliso
Tlotliso is one of the least common ‘honorable’ names. This moniker has taken on a cool edge by the fashionable parents of South Africa.
76. Setene
This moniker is derived from the African surname ‘Steyn’. It’s easy to spell and is timeless. So you can be assured that this name would never trip you up and would never go out of style.
77. Tumisang
Tumisang is a classic Sotho name meaning, ‘praise to God’. It may have gone down slightly in the last few years, but do not expect it to disappear anytime soon. You can use Tunisia as a nickname as well.
78. Tsotang
This sophisticated name is making a return appearance on the list of baby boys. It means ‘amazement or astonishment’.
79. Sontaha
Sontaha, meaning ‘Sunday’ would sound best on a baby boy born on this day. It sounds fabulous and soignee, but may come across as old fashioned for some people.
80. Pheijna
With such an obvious meaning (youngest child), we think you should bestow this name on your youngest one.
81. Potso
The vowel at the end of this name Potso is appealing and unique. This powerful name means ‘ask’.
82. Rethabile
If you think your young one can handle a larger than life moniker, pick Rethabile, which means ‘we are happy’. Even the meaning of this name is lovely. After all, every parent feels ‘very happy’ after the birth of their child.
83. Pule
This nature inspired name packs a punch. Meaning ‘in the rain’, Pule would make an excellent alternative to the common name Paul.
84. Tsietsi
Here’s another unusual Lesotho baby name, meaning ‘predicament’. It signifies a man of aristocratic being.
85. Motsumi
The ‘I’ ending makes this name even more intriguing. Motsumi means ‘the seeker’.
86. Reaotlotla
This is quite a mouthful name, but certainly unique. It means ‘we praise his name’. And we’re sure everyone your child comes across will praise his moniker too!
87. Sello
It’s a surprise that this name is so popular with the people of Lesotho despite its sad meaning (wailing). We think it’s probably because of its sophisticated sound.
88. Tumelo
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Here’s a no-nonsense name with a lovely meaning. It means ‘believe or faith’. For the nickname, you can pick Timmy.
89. Nku
If you want a simple to spell, one syllable name, go with Nku. The meaning of Nku is ‘sheep’. The name has two pronunciations: in some regions it is pronounced as ‘Ku’, and in others as ‘En-Ku’.
90. Kweda
If you want to give your child an animal inspired name, pick Kweda, which means ‘crocodile’.
91. Letsatsi
If you want a happy-go-lucky name for your child, this lovely Sotho name would make a lovely choice. It means ‘sun or day’.
92. Lerumo
A boy named Lerumo is destined to be brave, bold and dramatic. It means ‘blade or the edge of a spear’.
93. Matla
This elegant and handsome name got a real boost of late. It means ‘strength’.
94. Lebogo
This name conjures images of a handsome Sotho boy sailing through the sea and breaking many hearts along the way. The meaning of Lebogo is ‘giving thanks’
95. Mokhasi
This spirited and eye-catching name means ‘crawler’.
96. Fefo
Fefo is a contemporary name and means ‘storm or tempest’.
97. Karabo
This Sotho name has a glamorous and lovely tilt, all its own. Karabo means ‘answer’.
98. Jeso
Jeso is a noble and handsome Sotho name, meaning ‘God is my salvation’.
99. Hlano
Hlano means ‘five’. You can use this name if your son is born on the fifth of the month.
100. Fenya
This moniker was one of the most glamorous and famous names of the 1930s and 1940s. It isn’t used much now, so we think it would make a unique name for your son. Fenya means ‘conquer’.
101. Thoriso
You can use Thor as a nickname for this one. It would feel great to see the little Thor transition to Thoriso.
102. Thebe
This exotic name means ‘shield’.
103. Atlarela
Atlarela is a lush Sotho name, meaning ‘to receive gladly with open hands’.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How do Sepedi baby names reflect the Sepedi culture’s values, beliefs, and traditions?
The Sepedi culture is believed to be deeply connected to spiritual and religious beliefs. In this culture, names often carry meanings that relate to gods, spiritual figures, or positive ideas from age-old beliefs. Examples of such names include Lebohang, which signifies ‘be thankful,’ Tumisang, which conveys ‘praise to God,’ and Jeso, meaning ‘God is my salvation.’
2. Do Sepedi baby names connect to nature, mythology, or spirituality?
Sepedi names often draw inspiration from the beauty of nature. For instance, names like Letsha, Rapula, and Pule connect with nature’s elements and hold connotations related to water and rain. Names like these surpass mere titles and convey deeper cultural values tied to the environment and natural forces.
3. Are there any Sepedi baby names that honor virtues like bravery, kindness, or resilience?
Names such as Lerumo, which means ‘blade or the edge of a spear,’ and Ramatla and Matla, meaning ‘strength,’ are among some powerful Sepedi names. These names aren’t just nice-sounding; they have special meanings that parents believe will positively shape their children’s lives.
Just like the Zulu, Xhosa, and Shona baby names, Sotho and Sepedi baby names are native to the indigenous tribes of Africa. In particular, Sotho and Sepedi baby names represent the vast and rich culture and traditions of the Bantu tribe. As per their tradition, the elders select the name for a baby after careful consideration since they believe that a name shapes an individual’s character. Mostly, names are chosen depending on the baby’s date of birth and are inspired by nature or the traits they wish the child would have. Now that you’ve read the list, you can make an informed choice while selecting a baby name that honors the Sotho culture.
Discover More Names
When you have to choose a name for your baby, a few hundreds of names may not be just enough. Keep digging our mine of baby names until you find that one precious gem.
Infographic: Exotic Sotho (Sesotho) And Sepedi Baby Names With Meanings
The Sepedi tribe is well-known in Africa for its rich culture and traditions. So, we have put together a list of names for your baby inspired by this tribe. Thus, give the following a quick read and choose the best one for your little one. Illustration: Momjunction Design Team
Illustration: Exotic Sotho (Sesotho) And Sepedi Baby Names
_and_sepedi_baby_names_illustration-360.jpg.avif "Exotic Sotho (Sesotho) And Sepedi Baby Names")
Image: Stable Diffusion/MomJunction Design Team
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