Ashanti is a beautiful and unique name of African origin, particularly from the Ashanti people of Ghana. It's derived from the word "Nshrina," which translates to mean "king" or "ruler." This regal moniker has been passed down through generations among the Ashanti people, who have a rich history and culture.
The Ashanti Empire was established in the 17th century and was renowned for its powerful warriors, skilled artisans, and sophisticated society. The name Ashanti itself is intertwined with this empire's legacy and reflects the strength, power, and nobility associated with it.
In the context of the Western world, Ashanti gained prominence as a girl's name in the late 1980s and early 1990s due to its unique sound and regal connotations. It has since become a popular choice for parents seeking distinctive yet meaningful names for their daughters.
While Ashanti may not be widely known outside of Africa, those who are familiar with it often recognize its royal roots and the powerful history behind it. This name is perfect for parents who wish to give their child a unique identity that also carries significant cultural and historical weight.
The statistics regarding the name Ashanti in the United States from 1970 to 2019 show a fluctuating trend over time. The name first appeared with 14 births in 1970 and reached its peak popularity with 40 births in 1979. Throughout the 1980s, the number of newborn girls named Ashanti decreased significantly, with only 7 births recorded in 1985.
The name's popularity picked up again in the early 1990s, with a total of 23 births in 1992. This trend continued through the mid-1990s, with the highest number of Ashanti births occurring between 1993 and 1995, totaling 104 births over these three years alone.
However, from 1997 onwards, the popularity of the name Ashanti began to decline steadily. By 2003, there were only 6 newborn girls named Ashanti in the United States. This low popularity persisted until recent years, with an average of around 5 births per year between 2011 and 2019.
In total, from 1970 to 2019, there have been 767 baby girls named Ashanti born in the United States. Despite its fluctuating popularity over time, the name Ashanti remains a unique and notable choice for parents looking for a distinct name for their daughter.