SEMANTIC SHIFT ON ANGLICISED IGBO PERSONAL NAMES

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.