PHIRI
Phiri
Phiri is a surname of African origin commonly found in Southern Africa, particularly in countries such as Zambia, Malawi, and Zimbabwe. The name is of Bantu origin and is most prevalent among the Bemba people of Zambia.
Meaning and Origins: The surname Phiri is derived from the Bantu word meaning "hill" or "mountain." Historically, individuals who bore this surname were often associated with roles related to leadership or spiritual significance within their communities.
Distribution and Population: Phiri is a relatively common surname in Zambia, with significant numbers also found in neighbouring countries such as Malawi and Zimbabwe. The spread of the surname is attributed to migration and historical movement of people across the region.
Notable Individuals:
- Kennedy Phiri: A former Zambian professional boxer who achieved success in the flyweight division.
- Mafunda Phiri: A noted Zimbabwean author known for his works on African folklore and traditional storytelling.
- Thandiwe Phiri: A prominent Malawian politician who has held various ministerial positions in the government.
In Popular Culture: The surname Phiri has been used in various forms of media, including literature, music, and film, often to depict characters of Southern African descent or to highlight cultural aspects of the region.
References:
- Banda, S. (2015) The Cultural Heritage of the Bemba People. Lusaka: Heritage Press.
- Matenga, L. (2009) Southern African Surnames: Origins and Meanings. Harare: Academic Publishers.
There are approximately 1,295 people named Phiri in the UK. That makes it roughly the 6,032nd most common surname in Britain. Around 20 in a million people in Britain are named Phiri.
Typical given names associated with the surname
Male
- Andrew
- Elias
- George
- James
- John
- Joseph
- Michael
- Peter
- Richard
- Robert
Female
- Abigail
- Alice
- Betty
- Catherine
- Elizabeth
- Evelyn
- Florence
- Grace
- Rosemary
- Sarah