Abstract

Names are not just given for the sake of giving names in traditional Igbo communities respectively. Names are given according to the circumstances that surrounded the birth of a child and this actually makes such names to be symbolic and impregnated with meanings. In traditional Igbo communities, certain names are believed to be part or associated with molding of a person’s character.  However, Igbo names play some vital roles or significance in these societies. This paper examines why names are given in these two tribes and to bring out their interpretive paradigm. Certain names are given in order to maintain and make peace and cordial relationship among the community members. Names are given to warn or guard against and challenge envy which usually leads to conflict in the community. Names are given to challenge the prospective evil doer to enable him refrain from evil. Names are given to maintain whole some relationships between man and supernatural. Names are given to insult, appeal or praise to the players of the Heavenly spiritual abode and the mundane Earth to enable them achieve a welcome goal or objective. Names are given to signify the various designations that individuals hold especially in respect of others with whom he may be having interaction with be it political, religious, social, and economic.