Naledi is a name of African origin, specifically from the Setswana language spoken in Botswana and some regions of South Africa. It is derived from the Setswana word "naledi," which means "star." The name has gained popularity both within Africa and internationally due to its unique sound and positive connotation.
The meaning of Naledi as "star" is a symbol of light, guidance, and brilliance. In many cultures, stars are seen as powerful symbols that connect us to the universe and represent hope, dreams, and aspirations. Thus, naming a child Naledi could be interpreted as wishing them a life full of radiance, success, and inspiration.
Historically, the name Naledi is believed to have been used in Botswanan and South African communities for generations. However, it gained significant international recognition after being chosen by actress and activist Angelina Jolie and her husband Brad Pitt for their daughter born in 2008. The couple named their daughter Shiloh Nouvel Jolie-Pitt Naledi Okvist Jolie-Pitt, with Naledi being one of the middle names.
Today, Naledi is increasingly chosen by parents who appreciate its unique sound and positive meaning. It has also been embraced by individuals who wish to honor African culture and heritage or simply admire its musical quality. Despite its growing popularity, it remains relatively uncommon outside Africa, making it an appealing choice for those seeking a distinctive name for their child.
In conclusion, Naledi is a captivating name of African origin that carries a positive and meaningful association with stars. Its historical roots in Botswanan and South African communities, along with its international recognition through celebrity parents, have contributed to its growing popularity as a unique and inspiring choice for a child's name.
The name Naledi has had a varying popularity in the United States over the past decade. In 2010, there were 7 babies named Naledi. This number dropped to 5 in 2015 but then rose again to 6 in 2017. The year 2019 saw a significant increase with 11 babies being given the name Naledi. However, the popularity of the name fluctuated once more with only 5 births recorded in 2020. In recent years, there has been another rise in its popularity with 7 births in 2022 and 9 births in 2023.
Over this period, a total of 50 babies have been named Naledi in the United States. Despite some fluctuations in its popularity, it is clear that Naledi remains a unique and distinctive name choice for parents looking for something less common. It will be interesting to see how its popularity continues to evolve in the coming years.