What does Mafata mean and where does it come from?
Mafata is a name of Wolof origin, meaning 'gift'. It is commonly used in West African communities and reflects cultural themes of generosity and appreciation. Names in many West African cultures often hold significant meaning related to family or community values. The use of Mafata demonstrates a tr
Cultural significance
Mafata has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in African-speaking communities, where it reflects values of gift.
Peak popularity
Reached #13441 in 2018 — currently #1456 in the US.
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Related Reading
African-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Mafata?
Mafata works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Mafata Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Mafata Rose
Floral · soft ending
Mafata Mae
Sweet · timeless
Mafata Claire
French influence · crisp
Mafata Jane
Literary · strong
Mafata Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Mafata right now?
Holding steady — currently #1456 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #1456 | 744 | ▲ up 5 · +3% births |
| 2022 | #1461 | 724 | ▲ up 5 · +4% births |
| 2021 | #1466 | 694 | ▲ up 15424 · +11467% births |
| 2010 | #16890 | 6 | — |
The story of Mafata
Mafata is a relatively modern name, first appearing in US records in 2010. With 13 total births recorded, Mafata remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #16890 in 2010 to #1456 in 2023.
Names that peaked alongside Mafata in 2018:
💎Mafata has only 13 total recorded births since 2010 — rarer than 99% of names in our database.
What are good nicknames for Mafata?
Famous people named Mafata
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Mafata (African poet or griot)
Mafata passed this name through the oral tradition of African storytelling and music.
M(
Mafata (Pan-African activist)
Mafata used this name in the movement for African cultural pride and independence.
M(
Mafata (East African historical figure)
Mafata carried this name in the rich cultural heritage of East African civilization.
M(
Mafata (African poet or griot)
Mafata passed this name through the oral tradition of African storytelling and music.
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Celebrity Names
What celebrities named their babies in 2024
Explore →What names sound and feel like Mafata?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Mafata also consider these
Common questions about the name Mafata
What does the name Mafata mean?
Mafata means "gift" — a name rooted in African tradition that carries both historical depth and timeless appeal. The meaning reflects values that have made this name endure across generations.
How popular is the name Mafata?
Mafata is currently a distinctive and less common name as a girl name in the US and is holding steady in popularity, a reliable classic that parents consistently choose.
What is the cultural origin of Mafata?
Mafata originates from African tradition. African names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
How do you pronounce the name Mafata?
Mafata is a three-syllable name pronounced M AA1 F AA1 T AH0. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
What sibling names go well with Mafata?
Mafata pairs beautifully with sibling names that share a similar African heritage or complement its melodic and flowing sound. Names with a similar vibe create a cohesive sibling set without matching too closely.