Find out how popular the first name Arantxa has been for the last 33 years (from 1991 to 2023) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Arantxa by gender

Based on the last 33 years of data, Arantxa is exclusively a female name.

For the most recent data in 2023, there were 14 female babies and 0 male babies born with the name Arantxa.

The history of the first name Arantxa

The name Arantxa has its roots in the Basque language and culture of the Basque Country, a region straddling the border between Spain and France. It is a diminutive form of the name Arantzazu, which is derived from the Basque words "arantza," meaning "thorn," and "zu," meaning "you."

Arantxa is believed to have been used as a name since medieval times, with some historical records suggesting its usage as early as the 12th century. It was particularly popular among the Basque people, who have a rich cultural heritage and a strong sense of identity tied to their language and traditions.

One of the earliest recorded instances of the name Arantxa can be found in a 14th-century manuscript from the Basque region, where it is mentioned as the name of a woman from a prominent local family. However, the name does not seem to have gained widespread popularity until much later, possibly due to its association with religious and cultural significance.

The name Arantxa is closely linked to the Sanctuary of Arantzazu, a renowned Franciscan monastery and pilgrimage site located in the Basque region of Spain. The monastery has been a center of religious devotion and cultural significance for the Basque people since its founding in the 15th century, and the name Arantxa is believed to have gained popularity as a result of this association.

Throughout history, several notable individuals have borne the name Arantxa, including Arantxa Sánchez Vicario (born 1971), a Spanish professional tennis player who won multiple Grand Slam titles and achieved a career-high ranking of No. 1 in the world. Another famous Arantxa was Arantxa Rus (born 1990), a Dutch professional tennis player who has represented the Netherlands in various international tournaments.

In the realm of literature, Arantxa Urretabizkaia (born 1947) is a renowned Basque writer and poet, known for her contributions to the preservation and promotion of the Basque language and culture. Additionally, Arantxa Quintanilla (born 1955) is a Spanish actress and dancer who has appeared in numerous films and television shows, showcasing her versatility and talent on the stage and screen.

Beyond these notable figures, the name Arantxa has continued to be a popular choice among Basque families and those with connections to the region, serving as a testament to the enduring cultural and linguistic heritage of the Basque people.

Data source

The first name data used on this page comes from the Social Security Administration (SSA). They've been collecting data on baby names since 1880.

The history and meaning of the name Arantxa was researched and written by our team of onomatology and genealogy experts.

If you have a correction or suggestion to improve the history of Arantxa, please contact us.

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