Babatunde

boyYoruba

Babatunde is a boy name of Yoruba origin, meaning “Father has returned”.

MeaningFather has returned
GenderBoy
OriginYoruba
Pronunciationbah-bah-TOON-deh
TraditionModern & Classic
Used inNigeria, Benin

Meaning and origin of Babatunde

Babatunde means 'father has come again', from baba (father) and tunde (has returned). Traditionally it is given to a boy born soon after the death of his grandfather, reflecting the older Yoruba belief that an ancestor's spirit can return in a new child. Notable bearers include the drummer Babatunde Olatunji and the Lagos politician Babatunde Fashola. The usual short form is Tunde.

Is Babatunde a religious name?

The name comes from traditional Yoruba ideas about ancestors, but today it is used freely by Christian and Muslim Yoruba families as a family-heritage name.

How popular is Babatunde?

One of the best-known Yoruba boys' names, common in Nigeria and the diaspora.

Gifts with the name Babatunde

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Spellings and variants of Babatunde

TundeBabatunji

Names similar to Babatunde

More boy names

Frequently asked questions

What does the name Babatunde mean?

Babatunde means 'Father has returned'. It is of Yoruba origin.

Does Babatunde have a religious meaning?

The name comes from traditional Yoruba ideas about ancestors, but today it is used freely by Christian and Muslim Yoruba families as a family-heritage name.

How do you pronounce Babatunde?

Babatunde is pronounced bah-bah-TOON-deh.

Is Babatunde a boy or girl name?

Babatunde is usually a boy name.

Updated October 2026. Spotted a mistake? Tell us.