Amaya is a unique and captivating name of Spanish origin. It is derived from the Basque word "amaia," which means "surrounded by a halo of light" or "one who is loved." This enchanting name has been gaining popularity in recent years, both as a given name and a surname.
The name Amaya has a rich history that dates back centuries. In Spanish literature, it is associated with the character Amaya, the heroine of the novel "Amaya, la hija de la poza" (Amaya, daughter of the pool) by Pío Baroja. This novel, published in 1906, tells the story of a young woman who embodies strength, courage, and resilience in the face of adversity.
Additionally, Amaya is also the name of several places in Spain. There are towns called Amaya in the provinces of Burgos and Vizcaya, as well as a municipality named Amaya in the Basque Country. These locations serve as reminders of the deep roots that this name has within Spanish culture and heritage.
In terms of its popularity, Amaya has been steadily growing in usage worldwide. In Spain, it has consistently appeared among the top 100 names for girls since the early 2000s. It also gained traction internationally, particularly in English-speaking countries such as the United States and the United Kingdom, where it entered the ranks of popular baby names in recent years.
In conclusion, Amaya is a beautiful and meaningful name with a rich history that spans centuries and continents. Its captivating origin story and association with strength and love make it an attractive choice for parents seeking a unique yet significant name for their child.
It appears that the name Amaya has seen a significant increase in popularity over time, with a notable spike occurring around the late 1990s and early 2000s. From just 5 births per year in the 70s to peaking at over 2200 births in 2018, this name has become quite popular within the past few decades. However, it seems that its popularity may have started declining slightly since 2019, with a total of approximately 39,950 births recorded between 1972 and 2023.