Shirletha is a unique and exotic name of African American origin. It is believed to have been created by the author Zora Neale Hurston in her novel "Their Eyes Were Watching God" (1937). The protagonist of the novel, Janie Crawford, has an aunt named Shirelle, which is thought to be the inspiration for the name Shirletha.
The meaning and history of the name Shirletha are not well-documented. It does not appear in any traditional baby naming guides or historical records. However, it is clear that Hurston created the name as part of her storytelling, possibly drawing from African American cultural influences.
In recent years, Shirletha has gained some popularity among parents looking for distinctive and meaningful names for their daughters. Despite its lack of established history and meaning, the name Shirletha carries a certain charm and uniqueness that sets it apart from more traditional names. Its rarity also makes it an attractive option for parents seeking a truly original name for their child.
In conclusion, while Shirletha does not have a clear-cut origin or meaning, its creation by Zora Neale Hurston gives it a literary pedigree that adds to its appeal. As a unique and exotic name with African American roots, Shirletha offers an interesting and distinctive option for parents looking to name their daughters something special.
The name Shirletha is quite rare, with only five recorded births in the United States in the year 1967.