Xenia is a unique and beautiful name of Greek origin. It means "hospitality" or "stranger's friend," which reflects the ancient Greek concept of providing warmth and kindness to strangers. The name Xenia comes from the Greek goddess Xenius, who was believed to protect travelers and guests.
The name has a long history dating back to ancient Greece, where it was used as an epithet for gods and goddesses, as well as ordinary people who embodied hospitality. In medieval Europe, Xenia became associated with Christian saints who were known for their generosity towards strangers.
Today, Xenia is not a particularly common name, but its unique sound and meaning continue to make it appealing to parents seeking distinctive names for their daughters. It's also a popular choice among those interested in Greek mythology or culture. While the name may be lesser-known than some others, its rich history and meaningful origin make it a wonderful option for those looking for something special.
The name Xenia has been used consistently for births in the United States over the past century, with some fluctuations in popularity.
From the late 19th to mid-20th century, the number of babies named Xenia ranged from 5 to 16 per year. The most notable spikes occurred in the early 1970s, with 25 births in 1974 and 33 births in 1978.
In recent years, there has been a significant increase in the number of babies named Xenia. From 2011 onwards, the number of births has consistently exceeded 50 per year, reaching a peak of 75 in both 2022 and 2023.
Overall, since 1894, there have been a total of 2,831 babies named Xenia born in the United States. This demonstrates that while the name may not have been extremely popular at all times, it has maintained a steady presence in American naming trends over time.