JOURNALS

ABSTRACT

This paper discusses the dynamics of taken names in Igbo land with particular reference to the Anambra State Igbo speaking people of Nigeria. Part of the naming culture practised amongst the Anambra Igbos involves the art of naming oneself. This paper explores names that emanate from the practice of name-taking. It examines a subset of personal names in form of taken honorific nicknames which have hitherto, been unstudied. Responsorial nicknames are names carefully and wilfully chosen by the bearers as a reflection of their world views anchored on individual life experiences, values and philosophy. Unlike given names, honorific nicknames are taken names borne by only adult members of the society. The data for this research are obtained via interview from four elderly individuals (two males and two females) from Anambra State. The data are analysed using a descriptive framework. From the analysis, it is observed that responsorial nicknames serve as a form of greeting. They are characterized by 'idiomaticity', that is, their meaning could be figurative. The set of responsorial nicknames studied in this paper mirror the overall Igbo world view on values or principles such as the sacredness of truth, unpredictability of life, gratitude, and hard work amongst others.