Savannah is a captivating name of African American origin, derived from the vast grasslands known as savannas found in South Africa. It is not surprising that this name has gained significant popularity over time due to its unique sound and exotic origins.
The meaning behind Savannah is deeply rooted in the natural world, translating to "flat tropical grassland" or "treeless plain". This interpretation evokes images of wide-open spaces, freedom, and untamed wilderness. The name also carries a certain sense of serenity and tranquility associated with the peaceful expanse of these landscapes.
The history of Savannah as a given name is relatively recent compared to many others. It first appeared on record in 1927, bestowed upon a female character named Sally Savannah in the novel "The Venus Bush" by W.A. Swanberg. However, it wasn't until much later that Savannah began to be used as an actual baby name.
In recent decades, Savannah has experienced a surge in popularity. According to data from Social Security records, its usage peaked between 1990 and 2000, during which time it consistently ranked among the top 500 most popular girl's names in the United States. Today, Savannah remains a beloved choice for parents seeking an uncommon yet meaningful name for their daughters.
While there are no specific festivals or traditions tied directly to the name Savannah, those who bear this name often feel connected to its natural origins and the spirit of adventure it embodies. Whether they've visited the scenic city of Savannah, Georgia (which shares its name), or simply appreciate the beauty of untouched landscapes, these individuals carry a unique sense of pride and identity tied to their distinctive moniker.
The name Savannah has had a varied history of popularity in the United States over the past century. In 1911, there were only 5 babies named Savannah, but it appears that this name was not particularly popular during this time period.
However, things started to change in the late 1980s and early 1990s. From 1983 to 1996, the number of births with the name Savannah fluctuated between 5 and 10 each year, showing a gradual increase in popularity.
The turn of the century brought about a significant rise in the popularity of the name Savannah. In the year 2000, there were 12 babies named Savannah, which was the highest number recorded since the 1980s. This high level of popularity continued for several years, with at least 6 births each year from 2001 to 2004.
In 2004, there was a notable spike in the popularity of the name Savannah, with a total of 36 babies being born with this name. This marked the beginning of a period of sustained high popularity for the name.
From 2005 to 2018, the number of births with the name Savannah ranged from 5 to 12 each year, indicating that it remained relatively popular during this time. The most recent data available shows that in 2021, there were another 10 babies named Savannah, suggesting that this name continues to be a favorite among parents in the United States.
In total, over the course of these years, there have been 222 births with the name Savannah recorded in the United States. This demonstrates that while it may not have always been a popular choice, the name Savannah has undoubtedly become more common and widely used over time.