Find out how popular the first name Sparkle has been for the last 48 years (from 1976 to 2023) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Sparkle by gender

Based on the last 48 years of data, Sparkle is exclusively a female name.

For the most recent data in 2023, there were 5 female babies and 0 male babies born with the name Sparkle.

The history of the first name Sparkle

The given name Sparkle is a relatively modern invention, originating in the English language during the 20th century. It is derived from the English word "sparkle," which means to emit small flashes of light or to shine brilliantly. The name was likely inspired by the sparkling or twinkling appearance of lights or gemstones, reflecting the desire for a child to possess a bright, shining personality.

While the name Sparkle itself does not have a long historical record, it can be seen as part of a broader trend in English-speaking cultures to choose unique, descriptive, or whimsical names for children. This trend gained popularity in the latter half of the 20th century, as parents sought to express their individuality and creativity through their children's names.

One of the earliest recorded uses of the name Sparkle was in the 1976 American film "Sparkle," which tells the story of a young singer and her journey to fame in the 1950s. The film's protagonist, played by Irene Cara, was named Sparkle, likely chosen to evoke her star quality and talent.

Another early example of the name Sparkle can be found in the character of Sparkle Plenty, a fictional character from the comic strip "Dick Tracy" created by Chester Gould in the 1940s. Sparkle Plenty was a famous singer and entertainer, once again playing into the idea of a sparkling or shining personality.

Throughout the latter half of the 20th century, the name Sparkle gained popularity as a given name for girls, particularly in the United States. Notable individuals who bore the name Sparkle include:

1. Sparkle Rai (born 1979), an American actress and model.
2. Sparkle Soares (born 1983), an American professional wrestler.
3. Sparkle Williams (born 1979), an American gospel singer and songwriter.
4. Sparkle Moore (born 1986), an American singer and reality TV personality.
5. Sparkle Holmes (born 1969), an American actress and author.

While not a name with deep historical roots, Sparkle has carved out a unique place in modern naming traditions, reflecting the creativity and individuality of parents in recent decades. Its connection to light, brilliance, and shining personalities has made it a distinctive and memorable choice for those seeking a name that captures a sense of vibrancy and radiance.

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

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

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