Cayenne is a unique and captivating female given name that originates from the French colonial city of Cayenne in French Guiana, South America. The city itself is named after the Cayenne pepper plant, which was cultivated in the region by the French settlers.
The meaning behind the name Cayenne is associated with the spicy and fiery nature of the Cayenne pepper. It symbolizes warmth, passion, and intensity, much like the vibrant color and bold flavor of the pepper itself. In French culture, the name Cayenne has a certain exoticism and allure due to its connection to the tropical climate and rich history of French Guiana.
Historically, the name Cayenne first gained prominence during the French colonial era when the city was established in the 17th century. As trade routes expanded and European powers competed for control over the region's resources, Cayenne became a significant hub for commerce and cultural exchange between Europe and South America.
Over time, the name Cayenne has evolved from its geographical roots to become a distinct given name used by families around the world. While it is not as commonly used as some other French-inspired names like Claire or Sophie, those who choose Cayenne often appreciate its unique etymology and powerful imagery associated with the Cayenne pepper.
Today, individuals named Cayenne may still bear the fiery spirit of their namesake, but their character traits are purely a matter of personal personality rather than any inherent qualities tied to the name itself. Despite its relatively uncommon usage, Cayenne remains an intriguing and distinctive choice for parents seeking a unique and meaningful name for their daughter.
The statistics provided show the annual number of births with the name Cayenne in the United States from 1978 to 2020. Over this period, there were a total of 404 babies named Cayenne.
The popularity of the name Cayenne has varied over time. The earliest recorded year for the name is 1978, with only five births that year. However, by 1993, the number of births had increased to thirteen, indicating an increase in popularity during this period.
From 1996 onwards, there was a significant rise in the number of babies named Cayenne. The highest number of births recorded in any single year was twenty-five in 2012. This trend continued until around 2008-2009 when the popularity began to decline gradually.
Despite the fluctuations in popularity over time, the name Cayenne has consistently remained a choice for parents in the United States since the late 1970s.