Choosing a name for your baby is a significant decision. It’s a gift that will accompany them throughout their life, shaping their identity and making a statement about their heritage and potential. If you’re drawn to names that evoke beauty, strength, and a touch of the divine, then Amaris might be the perfect choice. This article delves into the meaning, popularity, and variations of the name Amaris, providing you with everything you need to know about this unique and captivating name.
(Image of the name Amaris)
Unveiling the Meaning of Amaris
The name Amaris carries a rich and layered meaning. Primarily, it is understood to mean "promised by God." This beautiful interpretation originates from the Hebrew language, embedding the name with a sense of divine blessing and favor. In some interpretations, it is also linked to the word "immortal" or "eternal," suggesting a timeless quality and enduring spirit. The name resonates with parents seeking a name that signifies faith, hope, and a bright future for their child.
Beyond its literal translation, Amaris also evokes qualities of grace, elegance, and inner strength. The melodic sound of the name lends itself to a gentle and kind persona, while its association with divinity implies a sense of purpose and resilience.
Amaris Name Popularity: A Historical Perspective
How popular is the name Amaris? While not a mainstream choice, Amaris has experienced a gradual rise in popularity over the years. Examining historical data reveals its journey from relative obscurity to a more recognized and cherished name.
The Social Security Administration (SSA) provides data on name popularity in the United States. As the provided data demonstrates, Amaris was virtually unheard of in the early 20th century. Between 1910 and 1970, the name did not appear in the SSA records, indicating that it was not given to a significant number of newborns during that time.
The name began to surface in the 1970s, with sporadic appearances in the records. For instance, in 1971, it ranked 2,617 with only 5 births recorded. There were inconsistent years after 1971 where Amaris was not ranked at all. However, its usage gradually increased in the late 1980s and 1990s, reflecting a growing appreciation for unique and meaningful names.
The 21st century has witnessed a more consistent presence of Amaris in the SSA rankings. While it hasn’t reached the top 100, it consistently appears in the top 1000, indicating a steady and growing popularity. In 2023, Amaris was ranked 905 with 245 births, representing 0.0189% of total births. This places it within a range of names that are distinctive yet familiar, appealing to parents who seek a balance between originality and recognition.
(Table of Amaris Name Popularity from SSA.gov)
| Year | Rank | # Births | % Births |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1910-1970 | — | 0 | 0% |
| 1971 | 2,617 | 5 | 0.0003% |
| 1972-1975 | — | 0 | 0% |
| 1976 | 2,863 | 5 | 0.0004% |
| 1977 | — | 0 | 0% |
| 1978 | 2,113 | 12 | 0.0009% |
| 1979 | 2,442 | 8 | 0.0006% |
| 1980 | 2,303 | 11 | 0.0008% |
| 1981 | 2,177 | 14 | 0.001% |
| 1982 | 2,424 | 10 | 0.0007% |
| 1983 | 1,904 | 18 | 0.0012% |
| 1984 | 3,094 | 5 | 0.0003% |
| 1985 | 2,150 | 15 | 0.001% |
| 1986 | 1,632 | 31 | 0.0021% |
| 1987 | 1,291 | 58 | 0.0038% |
| 1988 | 1,296 | 61 | 0.0039% |
| 1989 | 1,195 | 83 | 0.0051% |
| 1990 | 1,441 | 61 | 0.0037% |
| 1991 | 1,267 | 84 | 0.0052% |
| 1992 | 1,221 | 95 | 0.006% |
| 1993 | 1,184 | 96 | 0.0062% |
| 1994 | 1,129 | 109 | 0.0071% |
| 1995 | 1,331 | 74 | 0.0049% |
| 1996 | 1,161 | 103 | 0.0069% |
| 1997 | 1,054 | 127 | 0.0086% |
| 1998 | 1,233 | 94 | 0.0063% |
| 1999 | 1,257 | 95 | 0.0063% |
| 2000 | 1,147 | 123 | 0.0081% |
| 2001 | 1,159 | 124 | 0.0082% |
| 2002 | 1,032 | 157 | 0.0105% |
| 2003 | 982 | 183 | 0.012% |
| 2004 | 812 | 256 | 0.0168% |
| 2005 | 1,002 | 190 | 0.0124% |
| 2006 | 906 | 242 | 0.0155% |
| 2007 | 957 | 225 | 0.0143% |
| 2008 | 945 | 230 | 0.0149% |
| 2009 | 1,008 | 199 | 0.0133% |
| 2010 | 951 | 208 | 0.0144% |
| 2011 | 987 | 195 | 0.0137% |
| 2012 | 1,056 | 172 | 0.0121% |
| 2013 | 963 | 195 | 0.0137% |
| 2014 | 983 | 195 | 0.0134% |
| 2015 | 744 | 314 | 0.0216% |
| 2016 | 698 | 342 | 0.0237% |
| 2017 | 789 | 272 | 0.0195% |
| 2018 | 829 | 249 | 0.0181% |
| 2019 | 757 | 286 | 0.0211% |
| 2020 | 902 | 236 | 0.0185% |
| 2021 | 954 | 204 | 0.0167% |
| 2022 | 921 | 247 | 0.0187% |
| 2023 | 905 | 245 | 0.0189% |
Data via SSA.gov
Exploring Variations of Amaris
If you’re captivated by the essence of Amaris but seek a slightly different twist, several variations offer similar beauty and meaning:
- Amariah: This variation also carries the meaning "promised by God" and is deeply rooted in Hebrew tradition. It provides a slightly more formal and pronounced alternative. Amariah is a gender-neutral name, but is most often used as a boy’s name.
- Amarissa: Sharing the same Hebrew origin and meaning as Amaris, Amarissa adds a touch of elegance with its extended suffix.
- Amarit: Another Hebrew variation that retains the core meaning of "promised by God" but offers a shorter and more concise option.
These variations allow you to personalize the name while maintaining its profound significance and inherent charm.
(Table of Name Variations)
| Name | Meaning | Origin |
|---|---|---|
| Amariah | Promised by God | Hebrew |
| Amarissa | Promised by God | Hebrew |
| Amarit | Promised by God | Hebrew |
Names Like Amaris: Expanding Your Options
If you appreciate the sound and meaning of Amaris, you might also be drawn to other names that share similar qualities:
- Amaryllis: A Greek name referring to a beautiful flower, symbolizing radiance and beauty.
- Seraphina: A Hebrew name meaning "fiery ones," often associated with angels and a sense of the divine.
- Evangeline: A Greek name meaning "bearer of good news," evoking joy and optimism.
- Thea: A Greek name meaning "goddess," short, sweet, and powerful.
- Aurora: Latin for "dawn," representing new beginnings and radiant beauty.
These names offer a range of styles and origins while maintaining a connection to the themes of beauty, grace, and spirituality that resonate with Amaris.
Conclusion: Embracing the Beauty of Amaris
In conclusion, Amaris is a name that embodies beauty, grace, and a touch of the divine. Its Hebrew origin and meaning of "promised by God" imbue it with a sense of blessing and purpose. While its popularity has been steadily growing, it remains a distinctive and cherished choice for parents seeking a name that is both meaningful and unique. Whether you choose Amaris itself or one of its charming variations, this name is sure to be a gift that your daughter will treasure for a lifetime. The name Amaris is truly a beautiful choice.