Tokunbo
Primarily a boy's name of Yoruba origin with 10 recorded births. Also given to 5 girls.
Meaning & Origin
Tokunbo peaked during the Millennial wave, when 5 babies received this name in a single year (1981). That era was defined by pop-culture-influenced, individuality-forward naming, and Tokunbo has a more concentrated history, reflecting a specific cultural moment rather than a broad generational wave.
Tokunbo is not in the current top 1,000 boy names nationally, making it an uncommon choice — though your state or community may differ.
Tokunbo is a girl's and boy's baby name of Yoruba origin, meaning 'one who came from overseas' or 'returned from abroad.' A Yoruba name given to children born or conceived while the family was away from home.
EtymologyShow more
Phonetically, Tokunbo belongs to a cluster of names characterized by their open, approachable ending — ending on a vowel softens the overall impression. At three syllables, it has a three-beat flow that carries a sense of formality and completeness.
Within the Yoruba naming tradition, names with similar sound structures often share underlying etymological patterns. Exploring Yoruba names on this site may surface connections that illuminate Tokunbo’s linguistic neighborhood.
At a Glance
Popularity Over Time
Tokunbo has 2+ years of history in the U.S., first appearing in 1981.
Popularity by Decade
| Decade | Births | Avg Rank | Trend |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1990s | 5 | #10023 | — |
| 1980s | 5 | #7207 | — |
The Story of Tokunbo
A Millennial name
Peaking in 1981, Tokunbo is a Millennial-era classic. Boys named Tokunbo are most likely born between 1981 and 1991.
How rare is Tokunbo?
With fewer than 500 recorded births, Tokunbo is an exceptionally rare name — a one-of-a-kind choice.
The journey through the decades
First appeared in the records in 1981, peaked in the 1980s with 5 births that decade, and continues to thrive.
Year-by-Year Data
View complete yearly data(2 years, 1981–1993)
| Year | Births | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| 1993 | 5 | #10023 |
| 1981 | 5 | #7207 |
Source: U.S. Social Security Administration. Showing years with 5+ recorded births.
Tokunbo as a Girl's Name
Though more common for boys, Tokunbo has a notable history as a girl's name too, with 5 births since 1981.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Tokunbo a boy's or girl's name?
When was Tokunbo most popular?
How popular is the name Tokunbo?
Can Tokunbo be used for both boys and girls?
Explore More
Data source: U.S. Social Security Administration, 1981–1993