A Phonological Description of Ibibio Names: The Case of "Ènọ -Ábàsì Èssíén Ùrùà"

Abstract

Phonology embodies the segmental and non-segmental features of a language. These features are observed in both oral and written forms of personal names. In this Chapter, the phonology of a personal name is described by identifying the phonemes and syllable structure of personal names as they apply to the Ibibio (New Benue Congo) naming system. Using the Onset-Rhyme theory, an analysis of syllable segments of Ibibio personal names is carried out. It is observed that the name under study “Eno-Abasi Essien Urua” has a CV(V)C syllable structure, and is classified under gratitude, supreme and place of birth categories of Ibibio names. While the second and last names belong to the place of birth category of Ibibio names, the first and last names possess inherent low tones altered during pronunciation, mainly due to compounding effect on the first name and sociolinguistic effect on the last name.