Keshawn Unisex
Name Meaning & Origin Pronunciation: keh-SHAWN /kɛˈʃɔːn/
Origin: American; African American
Meaning: Derived from the name 'Keshawn', which is a modern blend of names.
Historical & Cultural Background
The name Keshawn is believed to be a modern American invention, likely derived from a combination of the name "Keshawn" and the suffix "-awn," which is often used in African American naming traditions. The root "Kesh" may be linked to the Hebrew name "Kesh,” which means "to be black" or "dark," though the exact etymology remains somewhat unclear.
The name is part of a broader trend in the late 20th century where names were created or adapted to reflect cultural identity and personal significance, particularly within African American communities. Historically, the name Keshawn does not have ancient roots like many traditional names; however, it reflects a contemporary movement towards unique and meaningful names that resonate with personal or cultural heritage.
The emergence of such names can be traced back to the civil rights movement of the 1960s and 1970s, where there was a resurgence of interest in African heritage and identity, leading to the creation of distinctive names that celebrate cultural roots. This period saw a flourishing of creativity in naming practices, with many parents choosing names that were not only unique but also carried personal significance.
Culturally, names like Keshawn symbolize a departure from conventional naming practices and an embrace of individuality and cultural pride. The use of phonetic spellings and unique combinations in names reflects a broader trend in African American culture, where names often carry deep meanings and stories.
While Keshawn itself may not have historical figures or saints associated with it, it embodies the spirit of modern naming practices that prioritize personal and cultural expression. The name may also have diminutive forms or variations, but these are less documented in historical texts.
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U.S. Historical Usage
The name Keshawn was first seen in the United States in 1973. Keshawn has ranked as high as #917 nationally, which occurred in 2000, and has been most popular in Florida, Illinois, Texas, Georgia, and North Carolina. In the past 5 years the name Keshawn has been trending down compared to the previous 5 years.
Popularity Over Time (National)
Top States for Keshawn (2024)
| State | Births | Share |
|---|---|---|
| FL | 6 | |
| MS | 5 | |
| SC | 5 |
Popularity Over Time (National) — Table
| Year | Births |
|---|---|
| 1973 | 6 |
| 1975 | 5 |
| 1976 | 13 |
| 1977 | 7 |
| 1978 | 12 |
| 1979 | 13 |
| 1980 | 9 |
| 1981 | 16 |
| 1982 | 12 |
| 1983 | 10 |
| 1984 | 18 |
| 1985 | 8 |
| 1986 | 21 |
| 1987 | 12 |
| 1988 | 31 |
| 1989 | 30 |
| 1990 | 45 |
| 1991 | 51 |
| 1992 | 55 |
| 1993 | 71 |
| 1994 | 88 |
| 1995 | 114 |
| 1996 | 224 |
| 1997 | 248 |
| 1998 | 262 |
| 1999 | 319 |
| 2000 | 380 |
| 2001 | 368 |
| 2002 | 301 |
| 2003 | 350 |
| 2004 | 332 |
| 2005 | 275 |
| 2006 | 247 |
| 2007 | 259 |
| 2008 | 243 |
| 2009 | 238 |
| 2010 | 196 |
| 2011 | 131 |
| 2012 | 126 |
| 2013 | 116 |
| 2014 | 79 |
| 2015 | 83 |
| 2016 | 79 |
| 2017 | 73 |
| 2018 | 57 |
| 2019 | 66 |
| 2020 | 72 |
| 2021 | 67 |
| 2022 | 40 |
| 2023 | 52 |
| 2024 | 58 |