Okonkwo
The origin of the surname Okonkwo
Okonkwo is an Igbo name linked to birth on the Nkwo market day.
How African surnames work
“African” covers a vast range of naming traditions rather than one system. Across sub-Saharan cultures — Yoruba, Igbo, Akan, Zulu, Amharic and many more — surnames and given names are frequently meaningful words in the local language, referring to circumstances of birth, the day of the week, praise of God, lineage or a family's history. Colonial contact also left European surnames in many regions, so an African family name may reflect indigenous heritage, faith or history.
Frequently asked questions
What does the surname Okonkwo mean?
The surname Okonkwo means Born on Nkwo market day (Igbo). Okonkwo is an Igbo name linked to birth on the Nkwo market day.
Where does the surname Okonkwo come from?
Okonkwo is a surname of African origin.
What kind of surname is Okonkwo?
Okonkwo is a other surname.
How common is the surname Okonkwo in the United States?
Okonkwo ranks #37,591 among U.S. surnames (2010 U.S. Census), recorded for about 557 people.