Ramatoulaye is a feminine given name of African origin, specifically from the West African country of Senegal. It is derived from two Arabic words: "Rama" which means "high", "elevated", or "lofty"; and "Toulaye" which signifies "God". Therefore, the name Ramatoulaye translates to "High God".
The name has a rich history in Senegalese culture and beyond. It is often associated with strong women of faith and resilience, many of whom have played significant roles in their communities. One notable figure was Ramatoulaye Ba, a Senegalese feminist, writer, and activist who fought for women's rights during the early 20th century.
In Muslim communities worldwide, Ramatoulaye is respected as it is believed to invoke blessings from God. It is also considered a name of high esteem, reflecting its elevated origins. Despite its deep roots in African culture and Islamic tradition, Ramatoulaye has become a globally recognized name, carried by women from diverse backgrounds.
In literature, the name Ramatoulaye gained further prominence through Mariama Bâ's novel "So Long a Letter". The protagonist of this book, also named Ramatoulaye, navigates themes of love, loss, and independence, providing an insight into the struggles faced by Senegalese women during the mid-20th century.
Today, Ramatoulaye continues to be a name that embodies strength, faith, and resilience. It serves as a testament to the enduring spirit of the women who have borne this name throughout history.
The name Ramatoulaye has been given to a total of 185 babies in the United States between the years 2001 and 2023, according to the statistics provided. The number of births with this name varied from year to year, with some years seeing more than ten births while others had fewer than six.
The peak years for the name Ramatoulaye were 2014 and 2019, with 13 and 10 births respectively. In contrast, the fewest number of births occurred in 2023, with only five babies being given this name.
Overall, these statistics demonstrate that while the name Ramatoulaye may not be one of the most popular choices for parents in the United States, it has still been chosen for a significant number of children over the past two decades. The variation in popularity from year to year also shows how trends in naming can change over time.