Authors
Stella Afomachukwu Akam,
Christiana Ngozi Ikegwuonu
Chinedum I. Enweonye
Department of Linguistics/Igbo
Chukwuemeka Odumegwu University Igbariam
Campus
Afomastella@gmail.com&ngozichristyikegwuon
u@yahoo.com
Abstract
This study looks into the phenomenon of
semantic shift in anglicized Igbo personal names,
investigating how the original meanings of the
traditional Igbo names are altered, reduced,
substituted or completely lost when transformed
into English-sounding variants. Drawing data
from admission registers in three public primary
schools in Ukwulu community and social media
platforms, the research categorizes Igbo personal
names based on the messages they convey—such
as birth order, especially first daughters like
‘Adaobi’, names based on strong belief In God, like: ‘Netochukwu’, ‘Udochukwu’. Other names
were categorized based on importance placed on
parents,on babies, the value and worth of life,
impact of human activities on earth, progress,
growth and development, human value, physical
strength and power, ownership or possession,
Igbo market day, love affection, happiness and
endearment, experience, emotion and opinion of
parents. Anchored on the conceptual theory of
semantics, the analysis reveals that traditional
Igbo names are rich linguistic and cultural
repositories, carrying deep meanings rooted in
spirituality, identity, philosophy, and lived
experiences. However, the study finds that
anglicism strips these names of their semantic
depth by removing tonal patterns, morphological
structure, and cultural symbolism. Consequently,
anglicized versions function merely as superficial
labels rather than meaningful cultural markers.
The research concludes that while anglicized
names may appear modern or fashionable, they
contribute to cultural erosion by weakening the
connection between Igbo personal names,
identity, and indigenous worldview.
Keywords: Semantic shift, Igbo personal names,
Anglicism, Anglicized Igbo names, Cultural
identity.