Shavaughn is a unique and captivating female given name of African American origin. It was coined by the renowned American poet and playwright, Langston Hughes, who used it as the title character in his play "Shawanee," written in the late 1920s.
The name Shavaughn is believed to have been derived from two Native American names: Shawnee, a tribe of Algonquian-speaking people who originally lived in present-day Ohio and West Virginia; and Shane, an Irish surname meaning "God is gracious." The combination of these two names creates a powerful and evocative moniker that has gained popularity among parents seeking distinctive and meaningful names for their daughters.
Historically, the name Shavaughn was popularized through Langston Hughes' work. In his play "Shawanee," the character Shavaughn embodies strength, resilience, and intelligence, traits that have become associated with bearers of this unique name. Although there is no specific meaning or translation for Shavaughn, its Native American roots suggest a connection to nature, heritage, and pride.
Today, Shavaughn remains a rare and distinctive given name, often chosen by parents who appreciate its unique history and cultural significance. It has not been widely popularized through celebrity usage or popular culture, allowing those who bear the name to maintain a sense of individuality and uniqueness.
In conclusion, Shavaughn is an intriguing female given name with African American origins that draws inspiration from Native American names and cultures. Its connection to Langston Hughes' work adds depth and literary significance to this captivating moniker, making it a powerful choice for parents seeking distinctive and meaningful names for their daughters.
Based on the statistics provided, the name Shavaughn experienced a period of popularity during the late 1970s to early 1980s in the United States. The peak years for this name were between 1978 and 1982, with an average of 13 births per year during this time frame.
Interestingly, there was a slight dip in popularity in 1984 and 1985, with only 8 and 9 births respectively. However, the name's popularity picked up again between 1987 and 1990, with an average of 10 births per year.
It is worth noting that there were no reported births with the name Shavaughn in the United States from 1994 to 2002. However, there was a single birth recorded in 2003.
Overall, based on these statistics, it appears that the name Shavaughn was relatively uncommon in the United States, with only a total of 174 births recorded over this 26-year period. Despite its fluctuating popularity, the name Shavaughn remains unique and distinctive.