Tamika Girl
Name Meaning & Origin Pronunciation: tah-MEE-kah /tæˈmiːkə/
Origin: Japanese; African American
Meaning: Japanese: child of the people; African American: a modern name
Historical & Cultural Background
The name Tamika is believed to have originated from the Japanese name "Tamika" (たみか), which can be composed of various kanji characters, each carrying different meanings. The name is often interpreted as meaning "child of the people" or "beautiful child," depending on the characters used.
The name's journey into English-speaking contexts is less direct than many Western names, as it is primarily rooted in Japanese culture and language, which began to gain recognition in the West during the 19th century, particularly through increased cultural exchange and immigration. Historically, the name Tamika gained prominence in the United States during the mid-20th century, coinciding with the civil rights movement and a broader appreciation for African American culture.
It is often associated with the African American community, where it was embraced as a unique and culturally resonant name. The name's usage was notably popularized in the latter half of the 20th century, particularly through various forms of media and literature that highlighted diverse cultural identities.
Culturally, Tamika carries connotations of strength and beauty, reflecting the values and aspirations of those who bear the name. It is often celebrated in artistic expressions, including music and literature, where it symbolizes resilience and identity.
The name's phonetic appeal and melodic quality contribute to its enduring resonance, making it a favored choice among parents seeking a name that embodies cultural significance and personal meaning. While diminutive forms are not as commonly noted, variations like "Tammy" may arise in informal contexts, reflecting affectionate or familial ties.
Famous people named Tamika
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U.S. Historical Usage
The name Tamika was first seen in the United States in 1951. Tamika has ranked as high as #245 nationally, which occurred in 1975, and has been most popular in New York, Pennsylvania, Illinois, Michigan, and Georgia. In the past 5 years the name Tamika has been trending down compared to the previous 5 years.
Popularity Over Time (National)
Top States for Tamika (2007)
| State | Births | Share |
|---|---|---|
| FL | 5 |
Popularity Over Time (National) — Table
| Year | Births |
|---|---|
| 1951 | 5 |
| 1959 | 5 |
| 1963 | 28 |
| 1964 | 30 |
| 1965 | 16 |
| 1966 | 20 |
| 1967 | 36 |
| 1968 | 182 |
| 1969 | 174 |
| 1970 | 259 |
| 1971 | 401 |
| 1972 | 627 |
| 1973 | 808 |
| 1974 | 1,040 |
| 1975 | 2,159 |
| 1976 | 1,866 |
| 1977 | 1,695 |
| 1978 | 1,637 |
| 1979 | 1,413 |
| 1980 | 1,279 |
| 1981 | 1,187 |
| 1982 | 1,056 |
| 1983 | 922 |
| 1984 | 833 |
| 1985 | 704 |
| 1986 | 558 |
| 1987 | 545 |
| 1988 | 491 |
| 1989 | 381 |
| 1990 | 405 |
| 1991 | 325 |
| 1992 | 259 |
| 1993 | 220 |
| 1994 | 161 |
| 1995 | 147 |
| 1996 | 115 |
| 1997 | 107 |
| 1998 | 100 |
| 1999 | 75 |
| 2000 | 68 |
| 2001 | 51 |
| 2002 | 53 |
| 2003 | 39 |
| 2004 | 35 |
| 2005 | 32 |
| 2006 | 25 |
| 2007 | 29 |
| 2008 | 19 |
| 2009 | 21 |
| 2010 | 20 |
| 2011 | 10 |
| 2012 | 11 |
| 2013 | 9 |
| 2014 | 5 |
| 2015 | 10 |
| 2016 | 6 |
| 2017 | 8 |
| 2018 | 7 |
| 2019 | 9 |
| 2020 | 11 |
| 2021 | 5 |
| 2022 | 5 |