Amaryllis is a unique and beautiful feminine given name of Greek origin. It is derived from the Greek word "amaryssein," which means "to sparkle" or "to shine." The name Amaryllis is also associated with the stunning red amaryllis flower, native to South Africa.
In Greek mythology, Amaryllis was a nymph who fell in love with the handsome hunter Alcaeus. To win his heart, she appeared before him every day for 30 days, dressed as a simple shepherdess. On the 31st day, Alcaeus finally noticed her and they soon became a couple. The gods were so moved by their love story that they transformed Amaryllis into the beautiful red amaryllis flower.
The name Amaryllis has been used in literature throughout history. In John Milton's epic poem "Paradise Lost," one of the fallen angels is named Amaryllis. Additionally, the 19th-century French poet Alfred de Musset wrote a poem titled "Amaryllis," which tells the story of a young woman who falls in love with a shepherd.
Today, Amaryllis remains a rare and distinctive name that evokes images of beauty, love, and mythology. It is often associated with strength, courage, and perseverance, as Amaryllis demonstrated in her pursuit of Alcaeus' affection.
The name Amaryllis has seen a significant increase in popularity over the past few decades in the United States. According to the Social Security Administration's records, there were only 7 babies named Amaryllis in 1926. However, by 2023, that number had risen to 73 births, marking a substantial growth in the name's usage.
Throughout the 20th century, the popularity of Amaryllis fluctuated but remained relatively low. The highest point during this period was in 1987 with 26 births, which was a significant jump from the previous year's 11 births. However, it wasn't until the early 21st century that the name began to gain more widespread usage.
The turning point seems to have occurred around the year 2007, with 27 births, after which the number of babies named Amaryllis began to rise consistently. This upward trend continued through 2023, indicating that Amaryllis is now a popular choice among parents in the United States.
In summary, while the name Amaryllis was relatively uncommon for much of the 20th century, it has since gained significant popularity in the early 21st century. Its increasing usage reflects a trend towards more unique and distinctive names, as parents seek to give their children names that are both meaningful and memorable.