family_restroom Twin names
Names after twins
In Fon tradition, twins (Hoho) are sacred. Children born right after them also receive ritual names. Here is the complete series.
Reminder: Dossou and Dossi
Twins receive fixed names:
Gnonnou — the child who comes after
The name Gnonnou (or Nonnou) is automatic for the child who follows the twins — boy or girl. It literally means « the one who follows ».
Dosu, Hounyedji and the others
The following children continue the series:
Why these names?
Twins are considered powerful spirits. The children born after them are protected by them — and receive a name that acknowledges this protection.
A sacred series
The genealogy twin Gnonnou Dosu Hounyedji shows the importance of birth order in Fon culture. Each position has its name and its story.
Behind every first name, there is a whole language.
A Fon name is a sentence. To truly hear it, you need the language: 79 video lessons with a native speaker — greet people, introduce yourself, talk about your family, understand your grandmother on the phone.
One free trial lesson when you sign up.
- The Fon video course: see the program — 79 lessons with a native speaker from Cotonou, taught in French
- What is your Fon level? — the free 15-question test