Ebonie is a unique and elegant female given name of African American origin. It is derived from the Latin word "ebonus", which means dark or black. In the context of names, Ebonie is often associated with the color black, suggesting darkness, elegance, and sophistication.
The use of the name Ebonie gained popularity in the United States during the early to mid-20th century, as part of the wider trend towards giving African American children distinct and powerful names. This movement was influenced by the Civil Rights Movement and the desire for self-determination and pride in one's heritage.
Throughout history, there have been several notable figures named Ebonie. One such figure is Ebonie Smith, a prominent jazz singer who rose to fame in the 1950s. Another notable figure is Ebonie Butler, an Olympic medalist in track and field who competed for the United States in the late 20th century.
Today, Ebonie remains a distinctive and powerful name choice for parents seeking a unique and meaningful name for their daughter. It carries with it a sense of elegance, sophistication, and pride in one's heritage. Despite its African American origins, the name has been embraced by people from diverse backgrounds who appreciate its beauty and meaning.
The name Ebonie has seen a varied trend in popularity over the years in the United States, as reflected by the birth statistics provided. The peak of its popularity was reached between 1982 and 1987, during which time there were consistently high numbers of births for girls named Ebonie.
In 1982, a total of 146 babies were born with the name Ebonie, marking the highest number on record. This trend continued into 1983 and 1984, with 140 and 141 births respectively. However, starting from 1985, there was a gradual decline in the popularity of the name, with the number of annual births decreasing to around 120 by 1988.
The late 1980s and early 1990s saw a further decrease in the usage of the name Ebonie. Between 1989 and 1993, there were consistently fewer than 100 births each year for girls named Ebonie. This trend continued into the late 1990s and early 2000s, with the number of annual births typically ranging between 20 to 50.
In recent years, the name Ebonie has become even less popular in the United States. Between 2007 and 2013, there were fewer than 20 births each year for girls named Ebonie. In 2011 and 2013, only 8 and 7 babies respectively were born with this name.
Overall, while the name Ebonie was popular during a specific period in the United States, its usage has significantly declined over time. As of recent years, it is no longer one of the most common names chosen for newborn girls in the country.