Name profile

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Impi

A Finnish name meaning “maiden,” distinct from the Zulu word for a regiment.

Usage languagesFinnish

Meaning and history

Impi has distinct Finnish and southern African associations. In Finnish, impi is an archaic poetic word meaning “maiden” or “young woman” and became a feminine given name. In Zulu, impi means a body of warriors or a regiment, but it is not the same naming tradition. The meanings should therefore remain separate. Notable bearer Impi Arvila was a Finnish actor; Finnish politician Impi Muroma is another historical example.