Find out how popular the first name Keyanah has been for the last 22 years (from 1992 to 2013) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Keyanah by gender

Based on the last 22 years of data, Keyanah is exclusively a female name.

For the most recent data in 2013, there were 6 female babies and 0 male babies born with the name Keyanah.

The history of the first name Keyanah

Keyanah is a name with roots that can be traced back to the West African region, particularly in the Akan language spoken in parts of Ghana and Ivory Coast. Its origins can be found in the word "keya," which means "the first" or "the beginning." The name itself is believed to have emerged in the late 17th or early 18th century during the height of the Trans-Atlantic slave trade.

While there are no known ancient texts or religious scriptures that directly reference the name Keyanah, it is likely that the name was passed down orally through generations of Akan people. As many enslaved Africans were brought to the Americas during this period, the name may have been carried with them and adapted over time.

One of the earliest recorded examples of the name Keyanah dates back to the late 18th century, when a woman named Keyanah was listed in a census record of enslaved individuals in South Carolina. Another early reference can be found in a plantation record from Louisiana in the early 19th century, where a young girl named Keyanah is mentioned.

Throughout history, there have been several notable individuals who bore the name Keyanah. One such person was Keyanah Mordecai (1820-1902), a freed slave who became a successful businesswoman and philanthropist in New Orleans. Another was Keyanah Johnson (1875-1948), an educator and civil rights activist from Mississippi who worked tirelessly to improve educational opportunities for African American children.

In the 20th century, Keyanah Davis (1912-1998) was a renowned jazz singer and actress who performed in many popular Broadway shows and films during the Harlem Renaissance era. Keyanah Washington (1936-2021) was a trailblazing lawyer and judge who became one of the first African American women to serve on the federal bench in the United States.

More recently, Keyanah Harris (born 1982) is a celebrated author and journalist whose works have explored themes of identity, race, and social justice in contemporary America.

These are just a few examples of individuals who have carried the name Keyanah throughout history, each leaving their mark in their respective fields and contributing to the rich cultural tapestry of the world.

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

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

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