Etta is a unique and distinctive given name of English origin. It is derived from the Old German name Auda, which means "noble" or "wealthy". The name Etta has been used throughout history, with one notable figure being Etta Place, an outlaw and companion of the notorious Sundance Kid during the American Wild West era.
The name Etta gained popularity in the late 19th to early 20th centuries, particularly among American families. It is believed that its rise in usage can be attributed to the influence of popular culture, such as the aforementioned Etta Place and other characters with this name appearing in literature and media during that time period.
Today, Etta remains a uncommon yet memorable given name for girls, often favored by parents seeking a name that combines vintage charm with uniqueness. Despite its Old German roots, Etta has become widely recognized across various cultures due to its widespread use in popular culture over the years.
The name "Etta" has a fascinating history of usage in the United States, as evidenced by the available statistical data. In the year 1915, there were 7 newborn girls named Etta, marking the beginning of this name's presence in the American baby naming landscape.
Over the next decade, the popularity of the name Etta remained relatively consistent. In 1925 and again in 1926, 5 babies each year were given the name Etta. This demonstrates a steady level of interest in the name during this period.
However, there was a notable increase in the usage of the name Etta in 1935, with 6 newborn girls being named Etta that year. This could suggest that the name experienced a brief surge in popularity during this time.
In total, over these five years from 1915 to 1935, there were 23 babies named Etta born in the United States. While not extremely common, the consistent usage of the name Etta throughout this period indicates that it was a recognizable and chosen option for parents during this era.
It's always interesting to see how the popularity of names ebbs and flows over time, and these statistics provide a snapshot into the history of the name Etta in the United States.