Anitra is a unique and exotic name of African origin. It is derived from the Swahili word "anita," which means "she has come." This name was popularized by the poem "Anitra's Dance" written by Norwegian playwright Henrik Ibsen, which tells the story of a young woman who dances with soldiers during World War II. Despite its African roots, Anitra is not widely used in Africa and is more commonly found in Scandinavian countries, particularly Denmark and Norway. It is considered an uncommon but charming name that carries a strong cultural significance.
The name Anitra has seen a significant trend over the years in terms of its popularity among newborns in the United States. Between 1923 and 2013, there were a total of 4,379 babies named Anitra.
The name's peak popularity was between 1957 and 1963, with 26 births in 1957, 48 births in 1958, and reaching its zenith in 1963 with a total of 66 births. This period marked the highest point for Anitra's popularity.
However, from the late 1960s onwards, there was a steady decline in the number of newborn girls named Anitra. By 1987, the annual birth count dropped below 50 and continued to decrease over time.
The most recent data shows that between 2000 and 2013, the name Anitra experienced a further decline in popularity, with an average of fewer than 10 births per year. Despite this decrease, it is still considered a unique and distinctive name, carrying a certain vintage charm for those who appreciate uncommon names.
In conclusion, while the name Anitra has seen fluctuations in its popularity over the years, it remains a distinct choice that carries historical significance due to its long presence in the United States.