Amanda is a female given name of Latin origin, derived from the Latin word "Amatus," which means "beloved" or "worthy of love." The name Amanda has been in use for centuries and has been popularized by various literary works.
The earliest recorded instance of the name Amanda can be found in a 14th-century French poem titled "Le Roman de la Rose." In this poem, Amanda is portrayed as a goddess of charity. Later on, the name gained prominence through Alexander Pope's satirical poem "The Rape of the Lock," published in 1712, where it was given to one of the characters.
In more recent times, the name Amanda has become quite popular, especially in English-speaking countries such as the United States, Canada, and Australia. According to data from the Social Security Administration, Amanda peaked at number three on the list of most popular girl names in the United States during the 1980s.
Overall, the name Amanda carries a positive connotation due to its meaning and has been associated with various notable figures throughout history. However, it is essential to note that the popularity and perception of names can vary greatly depending on cultural, geographical, and historical contexts.
The name Amanda has seen a varied pattern of popularity over the past few decades in the United States. Between 1975 and 1984, there was a significant increase in the number of babies named Amanda each year, with a jump from 25 births in 1980 to 35 births in 1985. However, after reaching its peak popularity during this period, the frequency of the name decreased significantly in the following years.
From 1985 onwards, there was a steady decline in the number of babies named Amanda each year until it reached its lowest point with only 6 births recorded in both 1994 and 1996. This downward trend continued into the late 1990s, with just 7 babies named Amanda in 1997.
Despite these fluctuations, Amanda remains a popular name overall. Over the span of 23 years from 1975 to 1997, there were a total of 369 babies named Amanda born in the United States. This consistent presence demonstrates that while its popularity may ebb and flow over time, Amanda continues to be a beloved choice among parents for their daughters' names.