Magali is a unique and charming feminine given name of Occitan origin. It was initially popularized in the southern regions of France but has since gained recognition worldwide.
The name Magali comes from the Occitan word "magal," which means "big" or "large." However, it's essential to note that contrary to its literal translation, the name Magali is not meant to denote size or physical attributes. Instead, it was traditionally given to express wishes for a large and prosperous family.
The history of Magali dates back to medieval times when Occitan was widely spoken in southern France. The name gained prominence through popular songs and poems written in the Occitan language, known as "cansos" and "sirventes." These literary works often depicted themes of love, chivalry, and everyday life, and they helped propagate the use of Magali as a given name.
One notable figure associated with the name Magali is the heroine from Frédéric Mistral's epic poem "Mirèio," published in 1859. The story revolves around the tragic love affair between the protagonist Mirèio and her beloved Vincent, with Magali serving as Mirèio's younger sister who also falls in love. This classic work of literature has significantly contributed to the popularization of the name Magali in France.
Today, Magali remains a unique and captivating feminine given name, carrying with it the rich history and cultural heritage of southern France. Although it may not be as widely used internationally as some other names, those who bear this beautiful name are often appreciated for their individuality and connection to a vibrant cultural tradition.
The name Magali has been given to babies born in the United States since at least 1950, with a total of 3,494 such births recorded over the years. The statistics show that the popularity of the name varied significantly throughout this period.
In the early years, from 1950 to 1970, Magali was relatively uncommon, with fewer than 20 births per year on average. However, there were some peaks in popularity during these decades: for example, 30 babies were named Magali in 1979.
The 1980s saw a significant increase in the number of newborn girls receiving this name. The highest figure was reached in 1986, with 47 births. This trend continued into the early 1990s, with over 100 babies named Magali each year between 1990 and 1993.
However, from around 1995 onwards, there was a steady decline in the popularity of the name Magali in the United States. By the end of the century, fewer than 100 births were recorded per year. This downward trend continued into the new millennium, with less than 80 babies named Magali annually from 2000 onwards.
The most recent data shows that the popularity of the name Magali has continued to decline in recent years. In 2021 and 2022, only 19 and 24 births were recorded respectively. This suggests that while Magali remains a unique and distinctive name, it is now much less common than it was during its peak popularity decades ago.
Overall, these statistics provide an interesting overview of the changing trends in baby naming in the United States over several decades. The name Magali, like many others, has experienced periods of both popularity and decline, reflecting broader shifts in cultural preferences and influences.