Mikal is a unique and distinctive name of African origin, specifically from the Ewe people of Ghana and Togo. It is believed to mean "God is merciful" in this language.
The name Mikal has been popular among the Ewe people for centuries and has since gained recognition beyond its origins. It is often heard in other parts of Africa and even globally, particularly within communities with African diaspora connections.
Historically, the name Mikal has been carried by notable individuals, contributing to its popularity and recognition. One such figure is Mikal Sheriff, a Liberian footballer who played for the national team during the 1970s and 1980s. This has likely helped to spread awareness of the name beyond its traditional bounds.
In terms of pronunciation, Mikal is typically pronounced as "mee-KAHL," with the emphasis on the second syllable. However, it can vary depending on cultural and regional influences.
Overall, Mikal is a strong, meaningful name that carries a rich history while also offering opportunities for personal interpretation and association. Its African roots provide a unique cultural context, making it an appealing choice for parents looking for something distinctive yet significant for their child.
Based on the statistics provided, we can observe several trends regarding the popularity of the name Mikal in the United States over time.
From 1943 to around 1976, the number of births with the name Mikal remained relatively low and fluctuating, ranging from 5 to 26 births per year. However, there was a significant increase starting in 1976, reaching its peak in 1993 with 158 births.
This period between 1976 and 1993 can be considered the most popular era for the name Mikal in the United States. After this peak, there was a steady decline in popularity, with fewer than 100 births per year from 1994 onwards.
In recent years, the number of births with the name Mikal has stabilized around an average of about 25 births per year, with fluctuations between 21 and 31 births annually. This indicates that while it may not be as popular as it once was, the name Mikal continues to be chosen for babies born in the United States.
In total, based on the data provided, there have been 3281 births with the name Mikal in the United States since records began until 2023.