Arizona is an unusual and captivating female given name that has gained popularity in recent years. Its origins can be traced back to the American Southwest, specifically to the U.S. state of Arizona itself.
The name Arizona was officially adopted for the state on February 28, 1911, when it entered the Union as the 48th state. It is derived from the Spanish phrase "Arizonac" meaning "small spring". This phrase comes from the O'odham (Piman) words "ali ṣonak", which means "place of the young (or small) spring".
Prior to its use as a state name, Arizona was used as an English translation for the Papago Indian reservation in southern Arizona. The Papago tribe is now known as the Tohono O'odham Nation.
The choice of the name Arizona for the state can be attributed to Mrs. Clifford Moulton, who suggested it during a meeting of the Arizona State Constitutional Convention. She proposed that the name should come from the area's rich Hispanic history and the beautiful natural springs found throughout the region.
Today, Arizona is not only recognized as a state name but also as an attractive female given name that carries with it a sense of history, beauty, and uniqueness. Its meaning, "place of the small spring", adds a touch of elegance and grace to this distinctive moniker. Parents who choose the name Arizona for their daughters often appreciate its connection to nature, history, and culture, as well as its distinctiveness compared to more common names.
The number of annual births with the name Arizona has shown significant fluctuations over time. From a low of 5 births in several years such as 1977 and 1986, it peaked at 152 births in 2020. Overall, there have been a total of 3343 births named Arizona since 1880.