Foday

♂ Boy

Pronounced FOH-day /ˈfoʊ.deɪ/Medium

Meaning: Foday is a West African name, common among the Mandinka and in Sierra Leone, Gambia and Guinea, generally meaning 'religious teacher' or 'scholar' (a title of Islamic learning). It carries West African heritage and is noted here respectfully.Low

In 30 seconds: A West African name: Foday means 'religious teacher; scholar' (said 'FOH-day').

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Origin MediumMandinka, West African

MeaningFoday is a West African name, common among the Mandinka and in Sierra Leone, Gambia and Guinea, generally meaning 'religious teacher' or 'scholar' (a title of Islamic learning). It carries West African heritage and is noted here respectfully.

U.S. rank (2024)#12866 ↘ Falling

2024 U.S. births5 boys (0.00% of U.S. boys)

Peak year2006

Total births (all-time)≈ 97

Popularity in the U.S. · SSA data

U.S. births per year (Social Security Administration, 1880–present). Pink marker = peak year.

SSA data updated May 2026. How we source & verify this data.

History & Origin

Foday is a West African name, widespread among the Mandinka and in Sierra Leone, Gambia and Guinea, generally 'religious teacher' or 'scholar.' It reflects a title of Islamic learning. Noted here with respect (said 'FOH-day').

In the U.S. it is rare and reads as a heritage name. Rare, dignified, and meaningful.

Did you know? Foday, common among the Mandinka of West Africa, carries the sense 'religious teacher' or 'scholar' — a title of learning turned name, noted here respectfully (said 'FOH-day').

Overall data confidence 50%

References — Foday — Mandinka/West African; 'religious teacher; scholar'

Variations

FodieFode

Nicknames

FoDay

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By themeheritage west-african dignified mandinka

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Frequently Asked

What does the name Foday mean?

Foday is a West African (Mandinka) name generally meaning 'religious teacher' or 'scholar.'

How do you pronounce Foday?

It's said FOH-day /ˈfoʊ.deɪ/ — two syllables, stress on the first.

Is Foday a boy or girl name?

Foday is used as a boy's name.

How popular is Foday?

Foday is a rare name in the U.S.