Lamar is a name of African American origin, derived from the African word "Lamara," which means "peaceful." It has been used as a given name in English-speaking countries for several decades now, but it was not until recently that it gained widespread popularity.
The name Lamar first appeared in the United States during the early 20th century. However, its usage remained relatively low until the late 1980s and early 1990s when it began to trend among African American families. Today, Lamar is considered a popular and beloved given name for boys.
In literature, music, and entertainment, there are several notable individuals named Lamar who have made significant contributions to their respective fields. Some of these include poet laureate Robert Hayden, rapper Kendrick Lamar, and actor Lamman Rucker.
Despite its African roots, Lamar has become increasingly popular among parents of various ethnic backgrounds due to its unique sound and positive meaning. Whether chosen for its historical significance or simply because it sounds appealing, Lamar is a name that stands out as both powerful and peaceful.
The name Lamar has seen a notable evolution in popularity over the years in the United States. Between 1911 and 2023, there have been a total of 1,247 babies named Lamar.
During the early to mid-20th century, the number of births with the name Lamar fluctuated, ranging from as low as 5 births per year in several years (such as 1911, 1913, 1914, and others) to a peak of 18 births in 1922. This period saw an average of around 7-8 births per year.
Starting from the late 1940s and throughout the 1950s and 1960s, there was a significant increase in the popularity of the name Lamar. The number of annual births peaked at 16 births in both 1968 and 1969. This trend continued into the early 1970s with around 9-12 births per year.
The 1980s marked another significant rise in popularity for the name Lamar, reaching a peak of 18 births in 1984. However, this was followed by a decline in the late 1980s and early 1990s, with numbers dropping to as low as 5 births in 2004.
Interestingly, since around 2006, there has been another resurgence in the popularity of the name Lamar. The number of annual births has increased steadily, reaching a peak of 60 births in 2015 and remaining above 30 births per year until recently. In 2022, there were 20 births with the name Lamar, indicating that it continues to be a popular choice among parents.
Overall, while the popularity of the name Lamar has fluctuated over the years, it remains a enduring choice for many families in the United States.