Lateef is a beautiful and unique name of African origin, specifically from the Yoruba culture of Nigeria and other West African countries. It is traditionally given to boys.
The meaning of Lateef is "the patient one" or "the gentle one." This name is derived from the Yoruba words "la" which means "to be patient," and "teef" which translates to "patience." Therefore, the name Lateef reflects the virtues of patience and gentleness.
The history behind this name dates back centuries in West African tradition. In Yoruba culture, names often hold significant meaning and are believed to shape the character of the child who bears them. Thus, naming a child Lateef was considered auspicious as it was hoped that they would grow up embodying the qualities implied by their name.
Notably, the name Lateef gained international recognition through its association with prominent figures like Lateef Jakande, a former Governor of Lagos State in Nigeria known for his political achievements and contributions to Nigerian journalism. However, despite these notable figures, Lateef remains relatively rare on the global stage compared to other African names.
In conclusion, the name Lateef carries profound significance rooted deeply within West African tradition. Its meaning encapsulates virtues that are universally appreciated – patience and gentleness – making it a distinctive choice for parents seeking a meaningful and unique name for their child.
The name Lateef has seen varying levels of popularity over the years in the United States, with a total of 891 babies given this name since 1967.
In the early years, there were only a handful of births each year. From 1967 to 1972, the number of babies named Lateef ranged from just 5 to 26 per year. However, starting in 1973, there was a significant increase in popularity, with over 30 births recorded annually until 1984.
The peak year for the name Lateef was 1977, with an impressive 47 babies being given this name. This marked a substantial rise from the previous year's total of 30 births and set a new high that would not be reached again.
After 1985, the popularity of the name Lateef began to decline steadily. There were still some years with notable numbers of births, such as 27 in 1998 and 22 in 1992, but overall, the totals decreased significantly over time.
In recent years, from 2004 onwards, there have been fewer than 20 births each year for babies named Lateef. The most recent data available, from 2022, shows that there were only 6 recorded births with this name.
Despite the fluctuations in popularity, it is clear that the name Lateef has had a unique history in the United States over the past several decades. Its peak popularity in the late 1970s and early 1980s highlights its significance during those years, while its recent decline suggests that it may now be considered less common. Nevertheless, with over eight hundred babies having been named Lateef since 1967, this name continues to hold a place in American naming trends.