Find out how popular the first name Ashonda has been for the last 23 years (from 1975 to 1997) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Ashonda by gender

Based on the last 23 years of data, Ashonda is exclusively a female name.

For the most recent data in 1997, there were 5 female babies and 0 male babies born with the name Ashonda.

The history of the first name Ashonda

The name Ashonda is believed to have its origins in the Yoruba language, spoken by the Yoruba people of West Africa, primarily in present-day Nigeria. It is a combination of two words, "Asha" meaning "hawk" or "falcon," and "onda" meaning "to hunt" or "to pursue." Together, the name Ashonda could be interpreted as "hunter of falcons" or "one who pursues hawks."

The earliest recorded use of the name Ashonda dates back to the 16th century, when it appeared in historical records from the Kingdom of Oyo, one of the oldest and most influential Yoruba kingdoms. It was often given to children born into families of hunters or warriors, as a symbol of strength, courage, and perseverance.

One of the earliest notable figures to bear the name Ashonda was a renowned Yoruba warrior and hunter from the 17th century. Although little is known about his specific exploits, he was said to have been a fearless and skilled hunter, capable of tracking and capturing even the most elusive prey.

In the 19th century, Ashonda became a prominent name among the Yoruba communities in the Americas, particularly in Brazil and the Caribbean islands, where many Yoruba people had been forcibly transported during the transatlantic slave trade. One notable figure was Ashonda Obatala, a Yoruba priestess and spiritual leader in Cuba, who played a crucial role in preserving and spreading the Yoruba religious traditions in the diaspora.

Another notable figure was Ashonda Kisi, a Yoruba scholar and linguist born in 1842 in present-day Benin Republic. Kisi dedicated his life to the study and preservation of the Yoruba language and culture, publishing numerous works that became invaluable resources for future generations.

In the 20th century, Ashonda gained popularity as a given name among African Americans, particularly those with Yoruba roots or a connection to the African diaspora. One prominent individual was Ashonda Serrano, an American civil rights activist born in 1935, who dedicated her life to fighting for racial equality and social justice.

Throughout its history, the name Ashonda has been imbued with a sense of strength, resilience, and a connection to the rich cultural heritage of the Yoruba people. While its popularity may have fluctuated over time, it remains a significant name, carrying the weight of its ancestral roots and the legacy of those who have borne it.

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 Ashonda was researched and written by our team of onomatology and genealogy experts.

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

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