Agata is a feminine given name of Polish origin, derived from the Greek name "Αγαθή" (Agathê), which means "good," "pure," or "noble." The name Agata is associated with the Greek goddess Hestia, who was considered the personification of hearth and home.
In Poland, Agata has been a popular name for centuries. It was particularly prevalent during the Middle Ages, when it was often given to girls born around the Feast of Saint Agatha on February 5th. However, it is essential to note that the name's popularity is not solely tied to this saint or her feast day.
The name Agata has gained international recognition in recent years due to notable individuals bearing this name. For instance, Agata Mróz, a Polish actress known for her roles in both theater and film, and Agata Tyszkiewicz, a prominent Polish journalist and television personality, have contributed to the name's growing popularity.
Agata is not just a name with historical roots but also one that has been embraced across cultures and generations. Its timeless appeal lies in its simple yet elegant sound and its positive connotation of goodness and purity. Despite its Greek origins, Agata has become deeply ingrained in Polish culture and is now recognized worldwide as a beautiful and meaningful feminine name.
The name Agata has seen a varied trend in popularity over the years in the United States. From 1920 to 2023, there have been a total of 435 births registered with the name Agata.
Looking at the annual statistics, we can observe that the name's popularity has fluctuated significantly. The name was given to 7 babies in 1920, and it remained relatively uncommon throughout much of the mid-20th century, with only a handful of births each year from 1927 to 1985.
However, there was a notable increase in popularity during the late 1980s and early 1990s, with the number of annual births ranging between 8 and 13 from 1986 to 1994. This trend continued into the new millennium, with over 10 births each year from 2000 to 2005.
After a slight dip in popularity during the mid-2000s, the name Agata experienced another surge in recent years. From 2013 onwards, there have been more than 9 births each year, with peaks of 16 births in both 2016 and 2023.
This data suggests that while Agata may not be one of the most popular names in the United States, it has maintained a steady presence and has seen periods of increased popularity over time. It is interesting to note how trends in naming can change over generations, reflecting societal shifts and cultural influences.