Roxanne is a unique and captivating female name of Hebrew origin. Its meaning is derived from the Hebrew word "rox" which means "dawn". The name Roxanne is often associated with light, radiance, and the beauty of the morning sun.
The name Roxanne first gained popularity in the English-speaking world through the character Roxane in the play "Cyrano de Bergerac" by Edmond Rostand. In the story, Roxane is a beautiful and intelligent woman who falls in love with Cyrano's words but ultimately marries another man due to societal pressures. This tragic love story has contributed to the name Roxanne being linked with romance, passion, and unrequited love.
Throughout history, there have been several notable figures named Roxanne. One of the most famous is Roxanne Pulitzer, an American socialite and philanthropist known for her extravagant lifestyle and high-profile divorce in the 1980s. Another notable figure is Roxane Gay, a Haitian-American writer, professor, and cultural critic who has gained widespread acclaim for her powerful essays on gender, race, and identity.
Overall, the name Roxanne carries with it a rich history and meaning that is rooted in Hebrew culture and literature. It is a name that evokes images of light, beauty, and passion, making it a popular choice among parents looking for a unique and meaningful name for their daughter.
Statistics on the given name Roxanne in the United States reveal an interesting pattern over time. Between 1956 and 1988, there were a total of 55 babies named Roxanne born in the U.S., with the number of births varying annually.
The earliest year recorded is 1956, with five girls named Roxanne coming into the world that year. This figure remained consistent until 1970, when another five little girls were welcomed, suggesting a possible resurgence or renewed popularity of the name during this period.
In the following decade, the number of newborns named Roxanne fluctuated between five and eight births per year, with peaks in 1983 (5 births) and 1987 (a notable high of 11 births). This latter figure represents nearly double the average annual births for this name over the given period.
By contrast, 1988 saw a slight decrease, with eight babies named Roxanne born that year. Overall, these statistics demonstrate the varying popularity of the name Roxanne throughout these two decades in the United States.