The name Marijuana is of Spanish origin and is derived from the plant species Cannabis sativa L., more commonly known as hemp or marijuana. The term "marijuana" was first used in print in the early 19th century, with the earliest known appearance being in a medical text published in 1854.
The name Marijuana is thought to have originated from the Spanish words "Maria" and "Juana," with "Maria" being a common female name in Spain at that time, and "Juana" being an abbreviation of "Juanita," meaning "little John." The two names were combined to create a nickname for the plant species, possibly as a way to differentiate it from other plants with similar names.
Despite its controversial association with recreational drug use today, the plant species Cannabis sativa L. has been cultivated and used for a wide variety of purposes throughout history, including paper production, clothing manufacture, medicine, and ritualistic practices. It is believed that marijuana was first smoked recreationally as early as 2737 BCE in ancient China.
While Marijuana may not be one of the most common names, it is still a unique and distinctive name choice for those who wish to honor the plant's historical significance or simply appreciate its unconventional sound.
Statistics on the given name Marijuana in the United States show a consistent but low number of births over time. In 1972, there were 5 babies named Marijuana born that year alone. Since then, the total number of births with this name has remained relatively stable, with only 5 occurrences nationwide. Despite its rarity, the name Marijuana continues to appear on birth certificates each year in small numbers, contributing to its ongoing statistical presence in the United States' naming landscape.