Amber is a name of English origin that has gained popularity in recent years, particularly as a girl's name. It is derived from the Old English word "æmbri", which means "ambergris" - a waxy substance produced by the sperm whale.
The name Amber has been used for centuries, but it was not until the 20th century that it became popular as a given name. Before then, it was more commonly used as a surname. The name gained popularity in the mid-20th century and has since become a staple among English-speaking countries.
In addition to its association with ambergris, Amber also shares its meaning with the gemstone of the same name. Amber is fossilized tree resin that can contain plant and animal inclusions, making it a popular choice for jewelry due to its unique beauty.
Throughout history, Amber has been worn by many notable individuals, including Amber Heard, an American actress known for her roles in films such as "Pirates of the Caribbean" and "The Rum Diary", and Amber Rose, an American model, actress, and television personality. However, despite its popularity among celebrities, Amber remains a unisex name that can be given to both boys and girls.
In conclusion, Amber is a versatile name with a rich history and meaning behind it. Its association with the beautiful gemstone and the fascinating substance ambergris make it an appealing choice for parents looking for a unique yet meaningful name for their child.
The name Amber has seen a fluctuating trend of popularity over the years in the United States, as indicated by the statistics provided.
From the early 1960s to the late 1980s, there was a notable increase in the number of newborn girls named Amber. The lowest point during this period was in 1961 with only 5 births, while the highest was in 1988 and 1989 with 62 births each year. This decade-long span witnessed a significant surge in popularity for the name Amber.
However, starting from the early 1990s, there has been a steady decline in the number of newborn girls named Amber. The highest point during this period was in 1993 with 26 births, and it gradually decreased to as low as 5 births in 2002.
Despite the decrease in popularity over recent years, Amber remains a unique and memorable name choice for parents who appreciate its distinctive sound. In total, there have been 979 newborn girls named Amber in the United States since 1961, demonstrating that while it may not be as popular as it once was, Amber is still a recognized and cherished name among many families.