The name Tanieka is of African origin, derived from the Swahili language. In Swahili, "Tani" means "nine" and "ka" is a suffix that indicates belonging or association. Therefore, Tanieka can be interpreted as meaning "belonging to nine." However, it's important to note that this translation is not universally accepted, and the true origin and meaning of the name Tanieka may vary depending on the source.
The name Tanieka gained popularity in the United States during the 1970s and 1980s, particularly within African American communities. It was often given to children as a unique and distinctive alternative to more common names. Despite its African roots, Tanieka is not a traditional Swahili name, but rather one that has evolved over time through cultural exchange and adoption.
Throughout history, there are no notable historical figures or mythological characters with the name Tanieka. As such, its history is primarily tied to its usage in modern times as a given name for children. Today, Tanieka remains a unique and uncommon name, with relatively few people sharing it worldwide.
The name Tanieka has been used consistently but not excessively in the United States between 1975 and 1996, with a total of 146 babies born during this period. The popularity of the name peaked in 1979 with 13 births, while the lowest number of births recorded was 5, which occurred twice (in 1986 and 1983). Despite some variation in the number of annual births, the name Tanieka has maintained a steady presence in the United States during this time period.