Amelia is a feminine given name of Latin origin that means "industrious" or "striving." It is derived from the Late Latin word "Aemilius," which was itself derived from the Latin word "aemulus," meaning "rival" or "to strive for excellence." The name Amelia has been popular throughout history, with several notable figures bearing this name.
One of the most famous historical figures named Amelia was Amelia Earhart, the renowned aviator who disappeared during her attempt to circumnavigate the globe in 1937. Earhart's daring exploits and achievements in aviation helped to popularize the name Amelia in the early to mid-20th century.
Another notable figure named Amelia was Saint Amelia of Aquila, a young Christian martyr who was executed in the 3rd century AD for her faith. She is now venerated as a saint by the Catholic Church, and her feast day is celebrated on October 5th.
In literature, the name Amelia has been used by several authors, including Henry James in his novel "The Portrait of a Lady" and Charlotte Brontë in her novel "Shirley." The name has also appeared in numerous works of art and culture throughout history.
Today, the name Amelia continues to be popular among parents, particularly in English-speaking countries. It was ranked among the top 20 most popular girls' names in the United States from 2011 to 2020, according to Social Security Administration data. Its enduring popularity can likely be attributed to its classic sound and positive associations with historical figures like Amelia Earhart.
Overall, the name Amelia is a strong and powerful choice for a girl's name, with a rich history and meaningful origins that span centuries of culture and achievement.
The name Amelia has been a consistently popular choice for parents in the United States over the past century. According to the data provided, there have been a total of 269 babies named Amelia born in the U.S. since 1921.
While the number of births fluctuated throughout the years, there were several periods where the name gained significant traction. Between 1983 and 1987, there was an average of 5.8 births per year, with a high of 8 births in 1989. This trend continued into the early 2000s, with an average of 6.8 births per year between 2004 and 2009.
Interestingly, the name Amelia experienced a resurgence in popularity in recent years. Between 2017 and 2023, there was an average of 9.6 births per year, with a high of 13 births in 2022. This indicates that the name Amelia continues to be beloved by parents today.
Overall, these statistics show that while the popularity of the name Amelia has ebbed and flowed over time, it remains a enduring favorite among American parents.