Origin and Meaning of Nzinga

She who walks with lions

Origin: Kikongo - Nzinga is derived from the Kikongo language, where it symbolizes strength and bravery, often interpreted as 'a woman who walks with lions,' reflecting the traits of a resilient leader.

• Nzinga is most famously associated with Queen Nzinga of Ndongo and Matamba, a 17th-century Angolan leader known for her resistance against Portuguese colonization.
• The name holds cultural significance in many African communities, symbolizing power and leadership.
• Notable bearers include the historical Queen Nzinga and various contemporary artists and activists who share this name.
• While not among the most popular names globally, Nzinga has seen increasing recognition and appreciation in Afrocentric naming practices in recent years.
• Variations of the name can include spellings such as Zhinga and Nzingha, though Nzinga remains the most widely recognized form.