Everything about the name AWA

Meaning, origin, history

Awa is a unique and captivating name with African origins. It has a rich history and beautiful meaning that adds to its allure.

The name Awa is derived from the West African language Wolof, which is predominantly spoken in Senegal. In Wolof culture, names often hold significant meanings, and Awa is no exception. It translates to "born on a Thursday" in English. This connection to the day of the week gives the name an earthy and natural charm.

The name Awa has been popularized by several notable figures throughout history. One prominent figure associated with this name is Awa Sangho, a renowned Senegalese singer and guitarist who was known for her powerful voice and captivating performances. Her music often reflected the cultural heritage of Senegal, and she played a significant role in promoting African music on an international stage.

Another famous bearer of the name Awa is Awa Thiam, a celebrated Senegalese poetess whose works were instrumental in the Negritude movement. This literary movement, which emerged in the 1930s, aimed to promote the culture and values of Black Africa. Thiam's poetry was deeply rooted in African tradition and heritage, further emphasizing the cultural significance of the name Awa.

In addition to its historical and cultural importance, the name Awa also has a lovely sound that makes it appealing to many people around the world. Its unique pronunciation (/ˈɑːwə/) adds to its charm, making it stand out among other names. The name's short form, Aw, is equally enchanting and often used as a nickname.

In conclusion, the name Awa is a fascinating choice with deep roots in African culture and history. Its meaning, derived from Wolof tradition, gives it an earthy and natural charm that sets it apart. Throughout history, notable figures like Awa Sangho and Awa Thiam have contributed to the name's popularity and cultural significance. Its unique pronunciation adds further appeal, making Awa a captivating choice for parents looking for a distinctive and meaningful name for their child.

Popularity of the name AWA since 1880

Birth evolution

Popularity analysis

Based on the statistics provided, the name Awa has seen a significant increase in popularity over the past three decades in the United States. Between 1992 and 2023, there were a total of 818 babies named Awa.

The number of births each year has fluctuated, with some years showing a significant jump in popularity. For instance, between 1997 and 1998, the number of babies named Awa nearly doubled, from 8 to 15 births. This trend continued into the late 1990s and early 2000s, with the highest number of births in a single year being 44 in 2005.

However, there have also been years where the popularity of the name Awa has decreased. For example, between 2011 and 2012, there was a significant drop in the number of babies named Awa, from 19 births to 37 births. Similarly, there was a decrease from 44 births in 2010 to 22 births in 2009.

Despite these fluctuations, the overall trend shows that the name Awa has become more popular over time. From 1992 to 1996, there were fewer than 50 babies named Awa each year. However, from 1998 onwards, this number has consistently stayed above 20 births per year, with several years even exceeding 30 births.

In recent years, the popularity of the name Awa has remained relatively stable, with between 27 and 32 births each year from 2017 to 2023. This suggests that while the name may not be as trendy as some others, it is still a popular choice among parents in the United States.