Goodness is a unique and uncommon given name of American origin. It is derived from the English word 'goodness', which refers to the state or quality of being good or kind-hearted. The name Goodness has been used primarily in the United States, with some occurrences also noted in other countries such as Nigeria and Ghana.
The earliest known use of the name Goodness can be traced back to the 19th century in America. However, it is not clear who the first person named Goodness was or why they were given this name. It's possible that the name originated as a translation of an African name meaning 'goodness' or 'kindness', brought over by enslaved individuals and their descendants.
Goodness has been used more frequently among African Americans, potentially due to its association with positive qualities such as kindness, generosity, and virtue. However, it is important to note that the name does not have a specific ethnic or cultural origin and can be chosen for any child regardless of their background.
In some cases, Goodness may have been used as a middle name rather than a first name, further contributing to its rarity. Despite this, there are still several notable individuals named Goodness throughout history, such as Goodness Carter (1850-1926), an African American abolitionist and suffragist.
Overall, the name Goodness is a distinctive choice that carries with it a powerful and positive meaning. It serves as a constant reminder of the importance of kindness, compassion, and goodwill towards others. While not widely used, this unique moniker offers parents an opportunity to bestow their child with a special name that holds deep significance.
The name Goodness has seen a consistent level of usage over the past decade in the United States, with an average of five births per year from 2012 to 2019 and again in 2022. There was a slight increase in popularity in 2018, with eight births recorded that year. Overall, there have been a total of 45 births with the name Goodness in the United States during this period.