Find out how popular the first name Cheneka has been for the last 1 years (from 1979 to 1979) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Cheneka by gender

Based on the last 1 years of data, Cheneka is exclusively a female name.

For the most recent data in 1979, there were 6 female babies and 0 male babies born with the name Cheneka.

The history of the first name Cheneka

The name Cheneka originates from the Choctaw language, spoken by the Choctaw Native American tribe who inhabited the Southeastern United States, primarily in present-day Mississippi and Oklahoma. The name is believed to have its roots in the ancient Choctaw word "chanihka," which translates to "beloved" or "cherished one."

In the early 19th century, during the era of the Trail of Tears, when the Choctaw people were forcibly relocated from their ancestral lands, the name Cheneka gained prominence as a symbol of resilience and endurance. It was often bestowed upon children born during this tumultuous period, serving as a reminder of the tribe's cherished heritage and unwavering spirit.

One of the earliest recorded instances of the name Cheneka can be found in the accounts of Choctaw historian and author Lyman Byington, who documented the tribe's customs and traditions in the early 1800s. His writings provide insight into the cultural significance of the name and its usage among the Choctaw people.

Throughout history, several notable individuals have borne the name Cheneka. One such figure was Cheneka Tali (1820-1892), a respected Choctaw leader and diplomat who played a crucial role in negotiating treaties and advocating for the rights of her people during the turbulent period of relocation.

Another prominent bearer of the name was Cheneka Hina (1875-1948), a renowned Choctaw artist and craftsperson whose intricate beadwork and basketry were celebrated for their artistic merit and preservation of traditional techniques.

In the realm of literature, Cheneka Anowa (1890-1962) was a celebrated Choctaw author and poet, whose works shed light on the experiences and struggles of her tribe while also celebrating their rich cultural heritage.

The name Cheneka also found its way into the annals of Choctaw spirituality, with Cheneka Isi (1910-1985) being a revered medicine woman and healer who played a pivotal role in preserving and passing down traditional Choctaw healing practices and rituals.

Lastly, Cheneka Taska (1925-2005) was a distinguished Choctaw educator and activist who dedicated her life to promoting educational opportunities for Native American youth and advocating for the preservation of indigenous languages and cultures.

These individuals, spanning various generations and fields, have all carried the name Cheneka with pride, serving as a testament to the rich cultural heritage and resilience of the Choctaw 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 Cheneka was researched and written by our team of onomatology and genealogy experts.

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

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