Shaniqua is a unique and captivating feminine given name that originates from the African continent, specifically from the Swahili culture. It is derived from the Swahili word "shanzi," which means "beautiful." The name Shaniqua is often associated with elegance, grace, and charm.
The history of the name Shaniqua can be traced back to ancient Africa, where it was used among various tribes and communities as a way to honor and celebrate beauty. Over time, the name gained popularity in other parts of the world, particularly in countries with significant African diaspora populations such as the United States, the Caribbean, and Europe.
Shaniqua is often found in cultures that value tradition and family heritage. It is commonly passed down through generations, serving as a symbol of pride and connection to one's roots. In some cases, parents may choose the name Shaniqua for their daughters as a way to pay homage to their African ancestry or to celebrate the beauty and strength of African women.
In addition to its meaning and origins, the name Shaniqua is also notable for its phonetic sound. It consists of two syllables, with the first syllable pronounced as "shan" and the second syllable pronounced as "ee-qua." This unique pronunciation makes the name memorable and distinctive.
Overall, Shaniqua is a powerful and meaningful feminine given name that carries a rich history and cultural significance. Whether used to honor one's African heritage or simply as an expression of admiration for beauty, this name remains a captivating choice for parents seeking a unique and special name for their daughter.
The statistics you've provided illustrate the popularity of the name Shaniqua in the United States over several decades. The name first appeared in the top 1000 baby names list in 1971 with 15 births, indicating that it was beginning to gain traction among parents.
Over the next few years, the number of babies named Shaniqua remained relatively low, fluctuating between 13 and 49 births per year from 1972 to 1978. However, in 1979, there were 69 births with the name Shaniqua, marking a significant increase in popularity.
The 1980s saw a steady rise in the number of babies named Shaniqua. In fact, it was during this decade that the name reached its peak popularity, with over 800 births per year between 1985 and 1991. The highest number of births occurred in 1990, with an impressive 842 girls being given the name Shaniqua.
However, like many other names that experience a surge in popularity, Shaniqua's popularity began to decline in the mid-1990s. Between 1993 and 2006, there were fewer than 100 births per year with the name Shaniqua each year, indicating that it had fallen out of favor among parents.
By 2007, only five babies were named Shaniqua, and this trend continued for several years. In fact, between 2005 and 2010, there were fewer than ten births per year with the name Shaniqua each year, demonstrating that it had become quite rare.
Overall, these statistics show how the popularity of the name Shaniqua in the United States has fluctuated over time. While it once enjoyed considerable popularity during the late 1980s and early 1990s, its use has since declined significantly. Nonetheless, even today, there may still be some parents who choose to give their daughters this distinctive name.