The name Amande is of French origin and means "almond" in English. It comes from the Latin word 'amanda', which was derived from the ancient Greek word for almond, 'amygdala'. The almond tree is known for its sweet-smelling flowers and nutritious nuts, making it a symbol of beauty, love, and fertility in many cultures throughout history.
The name Amande has been used since the Middle Ages in France. It was often given to girls born around harvest time or during the celebration of the Feast of Saint Amande, who was a French bishop revered as a saint by the Catholic Church. However, it's important to note that there is no direct connection between the name Amande and Saint Amande.
In literature, the name Amande has appeared in various works, such as Victor Hugo's "Les Misérables," where one of the characters is named Amande Mahoudeau. This helped popularize the name further during the 19th century.
Today, Amande remains a unique and elegant choice for parents looking for a distinctive name for their daughter. Despite its French origins, it can be found in many countries around the world, particularly those with French influences or where there is an appreciation for classic yet uncommon names.
The name Amande has seen a relatively steady presence in the United States over the past few decades, with a total of 19 babies given this name between 1980 and 1987. While there were only 5 births each in 1980 and 1981, the number of Amande births increased to 9 in 1987, indicating a slight rise in popularity during this time period. Despite these fluctuations, the name Amande remains somewhat uncommon compared to more popular names, offering a unique choice for parents looking for an distinctive moniker for their child.