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Ama Girl

Popularity: #932 · Trend: ↗ Rising

Origin(s)

PronunciationAH-mah / ˈɑː.mə

African; Japanese

Meaning

African: 'power'; Japanese: 'second' or 'second child'

Historical & Cultural Background

The name Ama has its roots in various linguistic traditions, with significant etymological connections in African and Hebrew contexts. In the Akan language of Ghana, "Ama" means "born on Saturday," derived from the Akan naming system that assigns names based on the day of the week a child is born. This cultural practice reflects the deep significance of time and cosmology in Akan society, where names often carry meanings that relate to the circumstances of birth. In Hebrew, "Ama" (אמה) translates to "mother" or "nurse," emphasizing nurturing and familial roles, which have been pivotal in various cultural narratives across history.

Historically, the name has been associated with various figures and traditions. In the context of the Akan people, the practice of naming children according to the day of the week has been a longstanding tradition, with roots that can be traced back to pre-colonial times. The significance of names in this culture is profound, as they often reflect not only the day of birth but also the family's heritage and aspirations for the child. In Hebrew tradition, the concept of motherhood has been celebrated in various religious texts, where figures embodying maternal qualities are revered, contributing to the name's enduring resonance.

Culturally, the name Ama symbolizes strength, nurturing, and connection to heritage. It embodies the values of community and family, particularly within the Akan culture, where names serve as a bridge between the individual and their ancestral lineage. The name's association with motherhood in Hebrew further enhances its significance, as it reflects the universal themes of care and protection. While diminutive forms or variations may exist, the name Ama stands out in its simplicity and depth, representing a rich tapestry of cultural meanings that have persisted through centuries.

Trend Summary

The name Ama has seen a gradual increase in popularity in recent years, particularly among parents seeking unique names.

Similar Names

Variants

  • Amma
  • Amah

International Variants

  • Ama (African); Ama (Japanese)

Famous people named Ama

Ama Ata Aidoo is a writer and academic best known for Changes: A Love Story, Our Sister Killjoy, and The Girl Who Can.

Fictional characters named Ama

Sibling Suggestions

U.S. Historical Usage

The name Ama was first seen in the United States in 1885. Ama has ranked as high as #1347 nationally, which occurred in 2019, and has been most popular in New York, California, and Kentucky. In the past 5 years the name Ama has been trending down compared to the previous 5 years.

Popularity Over Time (National)

Top States for Ama (2023)

StateBirthsShare
CA 6
100%

Popularity Over Time (National) — Table

YearBirths
18857
18915
18935
18947
18955
18995
19017
19046
19055
19075
19105
19115
19128
19147
191510
191614
191711
191814
191912
192013
192111
192214
19235
192412
192511
19267
19279
19289
192912
193011
193110
19326
19335
19355
19375
19387
19395
19405
19455
19495
19565
19686
19705
19716
197213
197311
197412
19759
19767
197712
197810
197911
198019
19817
198313
198411
19856
198612
19875
19889
19896
199013
19917
199217
199311
199413
19957
199614
199717
199813
199916
200015
200113
200211
200316
200411
200522
200615
200714
200816
200912
201011
201110
201217
201318
201416
201513
201616
201719
201819
201925
202012
202118
202219
202321
202418