Surname · African origin
Nkosi
Meaning
The surname Nkosi means King, chief (Zulu).
Origin
African
Type
other
The origin of the surname Nkosi
Nkosi means “king” or “chief” in Zulu and other Nguni languages.
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 Nkosi mean?
The surname Nkosi means King, chief (Zulu). Nkosi means “king” or “chief” in Zulu and other Nguni languages.
Where does the surname Nkosi come from?
Nkosi is a surname of African origin.
What kind of surname is Nkosi?
Nkosi is a other surname.