What Does the Name Ashanti Mean?
The name Ashanti is of African origin and has a variety of meanings. It is most commonly used as a female given name, but can also be used as a surname or middle name. The name is derived from the Akan people of Ghana, who are known for their rich culture and vibrant music. The literal meaning of the name Ashanti is “war-like” or “warrior”, but it can also mean “beautiful” or “peaceful” depending on the context.
Origin and History
The Akan people are an ethnic group located in Ghana, Ivory Coast, and other parts of West Africa. They have a long history that dates back to the 15th century when they were part of the powerful Ashanti Empire. The Ashanti Empire was one of the largest empires in West Africa at its peak and was known for its strong military power and wealth. The Akan people adopted the name Ashanti to honor their ancestors who fought bravely during this time.
The name Ashanti has been popularized in recent years due to its use by celebrities such as singer/songwriter Ashanti Douglas and actress/model Ashanti Brown. It has also been used as a character name in books, movies, and television shows such as Disney’s The Lion King II: Simba’s Pride.
Popularity
The name Ashanti is not particularly common in the United States, but it does appear on the Social Security Administration’s list of top 1000 baby names for girls. In 2019, it ranked at number 890 with a total of 545 babies given the name that year. It is more popular in other countries such as Ghana where it ranks among the top 10 most popular names.
Variations
There are several variations of the name Ashanti including Asante, Asantewa, Asanteya, and Asanty. These variations may be used interchangeably depending on regional dialects or personal preference.
