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ABSTRACT
This study examines how shortening Yoruba names known as clipping affects their meaning and cultural significance. Yoruba names are deeply rooted in tradition, often reflecting a person’s family history, values, or desired traits. However, when these names are shortened for ease, familiarity, or affection, their original meanings can shift. Using interviews with native Yoruba speakers and a detailed analysis of collected names, this research identifies different clipping patterns, such as back, fore, medial, and complex clipping. The findings show that while the essence of the names is often preserved, subtle changes in meaning and cultural context can emerge. By applying the Construction Morphology framework, the study highlights how these shortened names adapt to social and personal needs while maintaining their linguistic and cultural significance. This research contributes to understanding the dynamic relationship between language, culture, and identity in Yoruba naming traditions.
