Afra is a unique and captivating feminine given name of Latin origin. It is derived from the Latin word "afra," which means "genteel" or "delicate." This name was used in ancient Rome to refer to women who were considered refined, elegant, and graceful.
The name Afra has a rich history dating back to ancient times. Saint Afra was an early Christian martyr who was executed around the year 304 AD during the Roman Empire's persecution of Christians. Despite her young age, she refused to renounce her faith and endured torture before being beheaded. Her courage and steadfastness in the face of adversity have made her a revered figure among Christians, and her name has been used as an inspiration for generations.
In some cases, Afra may also be associated with African culture or origins due to its similarity to words like "Africa" or "African." However, it is important to note that the primary origin of this name remains Latin.
Today, Afra continues to be a distinctive and intriguing choice for parents seeking a meaningful and uncommon name for their daughters. Its elegant roots and historical significance make it an attractive option for those looking for a name with depth and character. While not widespread in popularity, Afra's unique sound and compelling backstory make it a memorable and fitting choice for any young woman bearing the name.
The name Afra has seen varying popularity over the years in the United States, with a total of 189 births recorded between 1979 and 2023. The name first appeared in the records in 1979, with five babies given the name that year. It then fluctuated in popularity, with several years seeing fewer than ten births each.
However, there were a few notable spikes in popularity. In 2006, there were fourteen Afras born, marking the highest number of births for this name in any single year during the period tracked. This peak was followed by another high point in 2023, with thirteen babies named Afra.
Despite these peaks, the name's overall trend has been relatively stable. There have been more years with fewer than ten births (46) compared to those with ten or more births (17). The most common number of Afra births per year is eight, which occurred nine times between 1992 and 2023.
This data suggests that while the name Afra has not become a widespread phenomenon in the United States, it has maintained a consistent level of popularity over time. Parents who choose this name may be drawn to its uniqueness and may appreciate knowing they are part of a smaller community of parents who have also chosen this distinctive name for their children.