Dahlia is a feminine given name of Latin origin, derived from the word 'dahlia', which refers to the flower bearing the same name. The dahlia flower was named after the Swedish botanist Anders Dahl by his colleague Carl Linnaeus. The name means "Lord Byron's Flower", as Lord Byron was known for his admiration of the beautiful and exotic dahlia plant.
The dahlia flower is native to Central America, particularly Mexico, where it grows wild in various colors and forms. It was cultivated extensively by the Aztecs who used it medicinally and symbolically in their culture. The Spanish conquistadors brought the dahlia back to Europe where it gained popularity due to its stunning appearance and variety.
The name Dahlia has been popular among women for many years, particularly in Scandinavia and other European countries. It is often associated with elegance, beauty, and uniqueness, reflecting the qualities of the flower from which it derives.
In literature, the name Dahlia has been used by several authors, most notably by Charles Dickens in his novel "Bleak House". The character Mrs. Jellyby bears the full name of Sarah Phelips Jellyby, often referred to as Dahlia for short.
Today, Dahlia remains a popular choice among parents looking for a distinctive and meaningful name for their daughters. Its association with beauty and elegance continues to appeal to many, while its Latin origins give it an international feel. Despite its popularity, Dahlia is still considered somewhat rare, making it a unique option for those who wish to stand out from the crowd.
The name Dahlia has seen a varied level of popularity over the past few decades in the United States. In the early to mid-1990s, the name was given to around 5-8 babies each year. However, starting from 2004 onwards, there was a significant increase in the number of births registered with the name Dahlia.
Between 2004 and 2013, there were consistently more than 10 births per year for girls named Dahlia, with peaks reaching as high as 17 births in both 2007 and 2010. This period marked a significant rise in the popularity of the name.
After 2013, the number of annual births with the name Dahlia began to fluctuate more significantly, ranging from a low of 7 births in 2016 to a high of 17 births in 2023. Despite this variation, it is clear that Dahlia continues to be a chosen name for newborn girls in the United States.
In total, over the period from 1994 to 2023, there have been 280 babies named Dahlia born in the United States. This demonstrates a consistent, if somewhat unpredictable, popularity for the name over almost three decades.