What is the origin of the name Amara?

The name Amara is of ancient origin, dating back to the Greek and Latin languages. In Greek, "Amara" translates to "bitter" or "beloved", while in Latin it means "love" or "universe". However, the modern usage of this name has roots in various cultures and regions, including Africa where it is a popular name among several ethnic groups, often associated with "eternity" or "grace". The spelling can vary slightly depending on the region (e.g., Amaira, Amirah), but the meaning and origins generally remain consistent.

Learn more about the origin of the name Amara

The meaning, etymology, and origin of the name Amara

The name Amara originates from the Latin language, where it means "eternal" or "immortal." However, its usage and meaning have evolved across various cultures over time. In ancient Rome, Amara was a feminine given name. In Greek mythology, Amara was an epithet of Persephone, the goddess of the underworld, symbolizing death and rebirth, as she spent part of the year in the underworld and part above ground. The name gained popularity in the United States in the late 19th century but saw a resurgence in the early 21st century due to its meaningful connotations. It is now commonly used in English-speaking countries, particularly in the U.S., as a unisex name, with more frequent usage for girls than boys. Amara is associated with strength, perseverance, and timelessness, making it an appealing choice for parents seeking a name with deep historical roots and positive meanings.

Character traits associated with the name Amara

Amara, a name of African origin, is often associated with a vibrant and dynamic personality. The name Amara is said to mean "grace" or "beauty" in various African languages, which can reflect a deep sense of poise, elegance, and charm within the individual bearing this name. People named Amara are frequently characterized by their strong sense of self and resilience. They are known for their ability to maintain grace under pressure, demonstrating maturity beyond their years. Additionally, Amaras are often highly intelligent and insightful individuals, with a keen understanding of the world around them. Their curiosity and intelligence enable them to excel in various fields, from academia to the arts. Overall, Amara represents a name of strength, beauty, and wisdom, symbolizing the potential for greatness within those who carry it.

Popularity of the name Amara

The given name Amara has gained notable prominence in recent years across various cultures, particularly in the United States and Canada. According to the Social Security Administration, it entered the top 1000 most popular female names in the U.S. in 2002 and has consistently remained within that bracket since then. The name, which means "grace" or "lovely" in several African languages, has resonated with parents who seek unique yet meaningful names for their children. Its increasing popularity can also be attributed to its use in popular media, such as books, movies, and television shows, where strong, independent female characters bearing the name have been portrayed. Overall, Amara is a name that embodies both elegance and strength, making it a favorite choice for many parents around the world.

Famous people with the name Amara

Amara is a name that has been associated with several notable figures across various fields. In music, Amara La Negra (real name: Azucena Tió Mulata) is an Afro-Latina singer and actress from Miami, Florida, best known for her role on the VH1 reality series "Love & Hip Hop: Miami." In academia, Amara Graps (born 1986) is a renowned Estonian historian and political scientist who specializes in the history of East Central Europe. Amara D. Eversley (born 1970), an American lawyer, serves as the Dean and MillsAP Professor of Law at Seattle University School of Law. In the tech industry, Amara's Law, coined by computer scientist and futurist Amara L. Graps (not to be confused with Amara Graps), states that "we tend to overestimate technology in the short run and underestimate it in the long run." Lastly, Amara T. Enyonam Agbebuniwe, a Canadian actress, is known for her roles on "Reign" and "The Expanse," among other productions. Each of these individuals has made significant contributions to their respective fields, demonstrating the versatility and impact that those named Amara can have in various walks of life.

Variations of the name Amara

The name Amara has roots across various cultures and possesses several alternative spellings. These variants include Amaira, Amahri, Amahra, Amairaa, Amahre, A'Mariah, Amarah, Amari, Amaree, Amarie, Amarina, Amarys, Aimaré, and Imaré. It is a name of Greek origin that means "eternal", but it has been adopted and adapted in many languages, leading to these diverse spellings. Each variation carries a unique charm and reflects the creativity and individuality of the bearer.
NomOrigine Team
About the author :

NomOrigine Team

Passionate about genealogy, name history, and linguistics, we have been analyzing the origins of names for over 3 years. Our content is based on verified historical, etymological, and statistical data.

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