Samantha is a feminine given name of Latin origin. It is derived from the Latin word "Samuel," which means "name of God." The name Samantha was first used as a female form of Samuel in the late 19th century. It became popular in the mid-20th century and has remained a popular choice for girls ever since.
The name Samantha has been associated with several notable figures throughout history. For example, Samantha Fox is a British model and singer, while Samantha Power is an American diplomat and political scientist who served as the United States Ambassador to the United Nations from 2013 to 2017. These individuals have helped to further popularize the name Samantha and contribute to its enduring appeal.
In literature and media, Samantha has been used as a character name in several works, including "Samantha: An American Girl of Today" by Lisa Westberg Peters, and the sitcom "I Dream of Jeannie," in which the main character is named Samantha. These depictions have also helped to solidify the name's place in popular culture.
Overall, Samantha is a classic feminine given name with a strong Latin root and a rich history of notable bearers. Its timeless meaning and enduring popularity make it an attractive choice for parents seeking a name that combines tradition and modernity.
Between 1965 and 2007, the name Samantha was given to a total of 262 babies born in the United States. The popularity of this name varied over time, with some years seeing more than twice as many births as others.
The year 1987 marked a significant turning point for Samantha's popularity, with 24 births - more than double any previous year since 1970. This trend continued into the next two years, reaching its peak in 1988 with 31 births.
However, after 1989, the popularity of the name Samantha began to decline. By 1995, there were only six births recorded that year, and this number remained relatively low for several years afterward. The most recent data available shows that in 2007, there were just five babies named Samantha born in the United States.
Despite its fluctuations in popularity over time, Samantha has remained a reasonably common name throughout its history in America. Its total of 262 births across four decades reflects its enduring appeal as a parent's choice for their baby girl.