Chasity is a unique and distinctive female given name of English origin. It is derived from the Middle English word 'chaste', which means pure or innocent. The name Chasity has been used as a virtue name, meaning that it was chosen to represent a specific quality or trait that the parents desired for their child.
The use of virtue names became popular during the Middle Ages in England and other parts of Europe. Parents would often choose names with positive meanings to bestow upon their children, such as Hope, Faith, Charity, and Chaste (which later evolved into Chasity). These names were believed to have a powerful influence on the child's character and future.
The name Chasity is not particularly common, but it has been used in various parts of the world since the Middle Ages. It was most popular in the United States during the late 1970s and early 1980s, according to Social Security records. Today, it remains a uncommon and unique choice for parents looking for a distinctive name with a meaningful origin.
Overall, Chasity is a beautiful and meaningful name with a rich history behind it. Its English origins and virtue-based meaning make it a timeless choice for parents who want their daughter's name to have a deep and significant meaning.
The name Chasity has seen a significant rise and fall in popularity over the past five decades in the United States. The name first appeared on record in 1970 with 18 births, marking its debut as a given name.
In the early 1970s, Chasity experienced a steady increase in popularity. By 1974, the number of births had quadrupled from its initial year, reaching 617 births that year. The trend continued, with a peak of 935 births in 1976.
However, the late 1970s and early 1980s saw a decline in the name's popularity. Despite this downturn, Chasity maintained a consistent presence, with an average of around 700-800 births per year from 1978 to 1986.
The mid-1980s marked another period of growth for the name Chasity. Between 1987 and 1992, the number of births increased annually, peaking at 755 births in 1991. This decade-long period saw a relatively stable popularity for the name.
However, from the late 1990s onwards, there has been a consistent decline in the number of babies named Chasity. By 2003, the total number of births had dropped to 351, and it continued to decrease through 2014, with only 137 births recorded that year.
The early 2000s also marked a significant change in the popularity trends for Chasity. The name began to appear more frequently among African American communities, which may contribute to its enduring presence despite the overall decline in popularity.
In recent years, there has been a slight resurgence in the number of babies named Chasity. After hitting a low of 63 births in 2020, the number increased to 70 births in 2021 and 47 births in 2022. As of 2023, there have been 61 recorded births with the name Chasity.
Overall, the popularity of the name Chasity has undergone several fluctuations over the past five decades. While it once peaked at nearly a thousand births per year, its popularity has since declined significantly. However, even amidst these changes, the name continues to be given to babies annually, indicating its enduring presence in American naming culture.