Names are the hallmarks of our heritage - reflections of both the ethnic and religious roots of our past and our dreams for our children's future. In this A-to-Z guide, expectant parents can discover thousands of names with special meaning for the African-American community.

Included are: African names that express ethnic pride and honor historical roots; contemporary, creative names that accentuate the specialness of the individual child; traditional Muslim names; information on origins and meanings, and more.

From the traditional Swahili name Adia to the musical-sounding Zeleka - or from the Muslim name Abdallah to the ancient, biblical Zachariah - African-American parents have a rich and varied cultural experience from which to choose their children's names. Whether you prefer a name that's utterly modern and unique or one that is rooted deeply in history, The African-American Baby Name Book can help you choose a name that will be as much of a treasure as the child who owns it.

A name is one label that a person carries for life. In fact, among many African ethnic groups, it is a person's most important possession, for it is the only thing that survives after death. Therefore, great care should be taken when considering a name for your child.

A name has the power to shape a person's personality and can influence future success and popularity as well as the perceptions of others. Give your child a name like Harry Butts or Robyn Banks, and you've sentenced him or her to years of teasing and ridicule. Even the repetition of sounds, as in Mavis Davis and Harley Marley, can provide fodder for teasing and will make your child long for another name.

When choosing your child's name, say your selection aloud, including first, middle and last names. Listen carefully to the sound and rhythm of the name. The initials of your child's name are another consideration. It's a good idea to make sure they don't form a word that could prove to be embarrassing. No child will enjoy having the initials P.I.G., D.U.D. or I.B.Greene.

Pronunciation is another concern. No one likes to have his or her name mispronounced, least of all a child - an important thing to remember if you are considering an alternative spelling for your child's name. Antwan is a popular variation of Antoine, as Andray is of Andre, but even though the spelling is different, the pronunciation is obvious. If you see the name Alys, however, you might wonder whether it is pronounced as Alice or Aleece. If you are seeking an African name, be aware that many of these names sound and look foreign to Americans and are apt to be mispronounced. A shortened form for everyday use is something to consider.

Female Names

Aaliyah (Hebrew) To ascend. Aliah, Aliya, Aliyah.

Aba (Ghana: Fante) Born on Thursday.

Abam (Ghana: Twi) Second child after twins.

Abana (Hebrew) Stony. Abanah.

Abena (Ghana: Fante) Born on Thursday.

Abeni (Nigeria: Yoruba) We asked for her, and we got her!

Abia (Nigeria: Hausa) Friend. (Efik) Small as a bird.

Adia (Swahili) A gift from God.

Male Names

Aaron (Hebrew) Exalted; enlightened.

Abasi (Swahili) Stern.

Abbud (Arabic) Devoted, worshiper of Allah.

Ace (American) Expert, excellent, first in quality.

Adan (Spanish; Hebrew) Red earth. (Nigeria: Yoruba) A large bat.

Addison (English) Addy's son. Addeson.

Adika (African) First child of a second husband.

Anjay (Hindi) Unconquerable.