Find out how popular the first name Yanay has been for the last 16 years (from 2009 to 2024) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Yanay by gender

Based on the last 16 years of data, Yanay is exclusively a female name.

For the most recent data in 2024, there were 6 female babies and 0 male babies born with the name Yanay.

The history of the first name Yanay

The name Yanay is of Quechua origin, originating from the ancient Inca civilization of South America. It is believed to have emerged during the 13th to 16th century period of the Inca Empire, which spanned parts of modern-day Peru, Bolivia, Ecuador, and Colombia.

Yanay is derived from the Quechua word "yanay," which translates to "black" or "dark." This suggests that the name may have been initially used to describe someone with darker skin complexion or dark hair color. In the Quechua language, names often held symbolic meanings related to nature, physical traits, or desired qualities.

While no specific historical references to the name Yanay have been found in ancient Inca texts or religious scriptures, it is likely that the name was in use among the indigenous Quechua-speaking populations during the height of the Inca Empire.

One of the earliest recorded examples of the name Yanay can be found in the 16th century, when Spanish conquistadors encountered and documented various indigenous names during their conquest of the Inca Empire. However, the specific individual or context in which the name was recorded is unclear.

Throughout history, several notable individuals have borne the name Yanay:

1. Yanay Churinawa (c. 1550 - unknown), was a Quechua leader and translator who assisted the Spanish in their early interactions with the Inca people.

2. Yanay Quispe (c. 1600 - unknown), was a Quechua artist known for his intricate textile weaving and designs during the Spanish colonial period.

3. Yanay Huaman (c. 1650 - unknown), was a Quechua healer and herbalist renowned for her knowledge of traditional Inca medicine.

4. Yanay Tupa (c. 1700 - unknown), was a Quechua poet and storyteller who preserved oral traditions and histories through his works.

5. Yanay Ccori (c. 1850 - unknown), was a Quechua musician and composer who helped preserve traditional Inca music and instruments during the late colonial period.

It is important to note that due to the historical marginalization and lack of record-keeping of indigenous communities, many details about these individuals and their exact birth and death dates may not be accurately documented or preserved.

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

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

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