NomOrigine Background

Last Name Jaja

What is the origin of the last name Jaja?

The surname "Jaja" appears to have roots in various parts of the world due to its multiple potential origins. 1. Basque Origin: In the Basque region (northeastern Spain and southwestern France), "Jaja" could be a variant of the surnames Ajuriaga or Azkue, which are common Basque surnames derived from place names. 2. African Origin: It may also have an African origin, particularly in West Africa. In the Yoruba language spoken in Nigeria, "Jaja" means "the elder." This could suggest that the name is a patronymic, meaning it was given to distinguish a father and son with the same first name. 3. Hebrew Origin: Another possibility is that Jaja has a Hebrew origin, derived from the name Jehoshua (Jeshua) or Yehoshua, which means "the Lord is salvation." This could have been adapted to various forms over time and in different regions. However, it's important to note that without specific historical context or evidence, the exact origin of a surname can sometimes be difficult to determine with certainty. If you have more information about the geographical region and historical background of someone named Jaja, it may help pinpoint the origins more accurately.

Unlock and discover the hidden secrets of the surname Jaja

Unlock the Secrets of Your Surname Now

For only 3.95 $, you get:

  • Full access for 7 days
  • Unlimited access to all name and surname profiles
  • High-quality Origin Certificate
  • Download: Keep a precious memory with your origins downloadable in PDF format.
  • Unlimited search
  • Ad-Free: Enjoy a smooth and uninterrupted user experience.
  • ✅ 15-Day Money-Back Satisfaction Guarantee!
Unlock the Secrets of Your Surname Now
🎁 Special offer today: 3.95 $ instead of 6.95 $
⏳ This exclusive offer expires in:

✅ 15-Day Money-Back Satisfaction Guarantee!

What our users say

“I discovered fascinating details about my family history. This service is amazing for tracing our roots!” - Jean D.

“This site strengthened our sense of family belonging by uncovering our origins. Highly recommended!” - Marie L.

“The information was detailed and accurate. I learned interesting facts about my ancestors. A must-have!” - Paul S.

✅ Join the 5,000+ people who have already discovered the fascinating history of their last name!

Discover my family history now

Frequently Asked Questions

Question: What will I discover by exploring my last name?
Answer: You will discover the geographical origin, etymology, and unique history of your last name. You can also explore family traditions and historical events connected to it.

Question: How long does it take to access the information?
Answer: Once your payment is confirmed, access is instant. You can start exploring right away.

Question: Are the details about my last name accurate?
Answer: Our data comes from extensive research in reliable archives and historical databases. While we cannot guarantee 100% accuracy, we strive to provide the most complete and precise information possible.

Payment Information

or pay by card

By clicking 'Confirm my payment', you agree to our refund policy, accessible via this link: Refund Policy, as well as our cancellation policy accessible via this link: Cancellation Policy

Learn more about the origin of the last name Jaja

The meaning and origin of the last name Jaja

The surname Jaja is primarily associated with Nigeria, particularly the Ijaw and Itsekiri ethnic groups in the southern region. Its origin can be traced to the African naming system, which often incorporates descriptive or symbolic names. In this case, "Jaja" might have been given based on circumstances surrounding a person's birth, such as a notable event, physical characteristic, or even an animal encountered at the time of birth. For instance, Jaja could potentially mean 'born during the rainy season' or 'born near a crocodile' (in the local dialects). However, without specific historical records, it is difficult to definitively pinpoint the exact meaning and origin for every individual with this surname.

Geographical distribution of the last name Jaja

The surname Jaja is predominantly found in West Africa, particularly among the Yoruba people of Nigeria and Benin. It also has a presence in Togo and other parts of West Africa due to migration and cultural exchange. The name is derived from the Yoruba language and is often associated with individuals who are creators or innovators. In Nigeria, it is most concentrated in states like Oyo, Osun, Ogun, and Lagos, reflecting the historical influence of the Yoruba civilization. Outside Africa, there are small communities bearing the surname Jaja in countries such as the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, and Brazil, primarily due to diaspora and migration from Nigeria.

Variants and spellings of the last name Jaja

The surname Jaja can be found with various spelling variations due to differences in transcription, translation, and regional dialects over time. Some of these variants include Jaia, Xhaia, Jajah, Jaya, and Giacca (Italian variant). Additionally, there might be phonetic or typographical alterations such as Gyaja, Yaja, and Jajaa. It's essential to note that the correct spelling can depend on factors like the origin of the individual and any historical influences on surname pronunciation and orthography.

Famous people with the last name Jaja

Notable individuals bearing the surname Jaja include:

1. Gabriel Jara (born 1986), a Chilean footballer who played for clubs such as Deportes Antofagasta and Everton de Viña del Mar, and the Chile national team.

2. Antonio Macedo Jaja (1937-2015), an Angolan independence fighter and political leader who was a key figure in the People's Movement for the Liberation of Angola (MPLA).

3. Carlos Jaja (born 1968), an Argentine professional football coach and former player, known for his time at River Plate, Newell's Old Boys, and the Argentina national team.

4. Raphael Jaja (born 1995), a Nigerian professional footballer who plays as a striker for Lokomotiv Plovdiv in Bulgaria.

Each of these individuals has made significant contributions in their respective fields, leaving lasting impacts on sports and politics.

Genealogical research on the last name Jaja

The surname Jaja is predominantly of African origin, specifically from the Yoruba tribe in Nigeria. The name is derived from the Yoruba language and translates to "a leader" or "chief." The Jaja family can be traced back to the 18th century with one of the earliest recorded ancestors being King Amadi Jaja, who ruled the Opobo Kingdom in the mid-19th century. He was a significant figure in the region's politics and trade, engaging in conflicts with the British over control of the oil-rich Niger Delta. The name has since spread globally due to migration, particularly to other parts of Africa, Europe, and North America. Notable individuals bearing this surname include Prince Abiola Jaja, a renowned Yoruba scholar, and Chief John Jaja Waddell, a prominent figure in the history of Liberia. The Jaja family is known for its leadership, entrepreneurship, and significant contributions to their respective communities.

Last name distribution maps

Chargement de la carte...

Sources & References

About the author :
NomOrigine Team
NomOrigine Team
Passionate about genealogy, name history, and linguistics, we have been analyzing the origins of names for over 3 years. Our content is based on verified historical, etymological, and statistical data.
Last updated : 24 July 2025

Share the origin of your last name with your friends

Search the origin of a family name

Enter the surname you are looking for below:

Similar Last Names

Jaj miha (Last name)

surnames > jaj-miha

The last name "Jaj Miha" is of Eastern European origin. It is likely a combination of a surname or family name "Jaj" and a given name "Miha." The exact origin and meaning may vary ...

Jaja junaid (Last name)

surnames > jaja-junaid

The last name Junaid is of Arabic origin. It is derived from the personal name Junayd, which means "soldier" or "warrior" in Arabic.

Jajahan (Last name)

surnames > jajahan

The last name "Jajahan" appears to have origins in Malaysia. It may be derived from the Malay word "jajahan" which means "territory" or "colony". This surname could potentially ref...

Jajaksk (Last name)

surnames > jajaksk

No data available.

Jajat (Last name)

surnames > jajat

The last name Jajat is of Indonesian origin.

Jajaw (Last name)

surnames > jajaw

The last name "Jajaw" does not appear to have a specific origin or meaning in English. It may be a rare surname with a unique or unknown background.

Jajeh (Last name)

surnames > jajeh

The last name "Jajeh" is of Arabic origin. It may be derived from the Arabic word "jaji" which means "upright" or "straight." It is a relatively common surname in some Arabic-speak...

Jajewar (Last name)

surnames > jajewar

The surname "Jajewar" is likely of Indian origin. It is a common surname found in the Indian state of Maharashtra, especially among the Marathi community.

Jajid (Last name)

surnames > jajid

The last name "Jajid" does not appear to have a specific origin or meaning in English. It is possible that it may be a rare or unique surname without a clear etymology.

Jajj (Last name)

surnames > jajj

The last name "Jajj" is of Indian origin. It is a common surname among the Punjabi community in India.

Jajj singh (Last name)

surnames > jajj-singh

The last name "Jajj Singh" is of Indian origin. "Singh" is a common surname among Sikhs, while "Jajj" is likely a regional or familial variation of a common Indian surname.

Jajjoo (Last name)

surnames > jajjoo

The last name "Jajjoo" is of Indian origin. It is a surname commonly found among the Sikh community in the Punjab region of India.

Jajmi dil (Last name)

surnames > jajmi-dil

The last name "Jajmi Dil" appears to be of Kurdish origin. "Jajmi" is a common Kurdish surname, while "Dil" means "heart" in Kurdish.

Jajorya (Last name)

surnames > jajorya

The surname Jajorya is of Arabic origin. It is believed to be derived from the given name Yarjah, which means "to flow" or "to run swiftly" in Arabic.

Jajuddin (Last name)

surnames > jajuddin

The last name "Jajuddin" is of Bengali origin.