What does Taiwo mean?
A Yoruba twin-order name for the first-born twin, from a phrase meaning roughly 'the first to taste the world' (to-aye-wo). Paired with Kehinde, the second twin; unisex.
What does Ayo mean?
Ayo means “joy” in Yoruba.
Taiwo vs Ayo
Which is more popular?
Taiwo and Ayo are given to a similar number of US babies today.
| Taiwo | Ayo | |
|---|---|---|
| Meaning | First-born of twins | Joy |
| Origin | yoruba | Yoruba |
| Gender | Unisex | Unisex |
| Pronunciation | TIE-woh | AH-yoh |
| Syllables | 2 | 2 |
| First appeared | 0 | 1973 |
| Peak year | 1992 (10) | 2021 (12) |
| In 2025 | 0 | 0 |
| Trend | Declining | Rising |
Popularity over time, 1880–2025
Taiwo
Ayo
Source: US Social Security Administration.
Births by decade
| Decade | Taiwo | Ayo |
|---|---|---|
| 2020s | 0 | 42 |
| 2010s | 24 | 38 |
| 2000s | 29 | 23 |
| 1990s | 48 | 19 |
| 1980s | 18 | 11 |
| 1970s | 28 | 22 |
Frequently asked questions
Is Taiwo or Ayo more popular?
Taiwo and Ayo are given to a similar number of US babies today.
What is the difference between Taiwo and Ayo?
Taiwo means First-born of twins (yoruba origin), while Ayo means Joy (Yoruba origin).
Which name is older, Taiwo or Ayo?
In US records, Taiwo first appears in 0 and Ayo in 1973, so Taiwo has the longer recorded history.