Lima is a unique and intriguing name of Peruvian origin. It is derived from the Quechua word "RIMAQ," which means "speaker" or "orator." In Peru, Lima is primarily used as a masculine given name, but it can also be used as a surname.
The city of Lima, the capital of Peru, was named after the Limaq people who inhabited the region before Spanish colonization. The name Lima gained international recognition due to this association with the city and has since become popular beyond Peru's borders.
Historically, the name Lima has been carried by notable individuals throughout history. One famous bearer of the name is Francisco Pizarro, a Spanish conquistador who founded the city of Lima in 1535. Another notable figure is Ciro Alegría, a Peruvian novelist and politician who was known for his works that explored the social and political issues of Peru.
Despite its masculine association in Peru, Lima has gained popularity as a unisex name in other parts of the world. It has been used by parents looking for unique, meaningful names with international appeal. The name Lima is often associated with exoticism, sophistication, and culture due to its connection to the vibrant city of Lima and Peru's rich history.
In terms of popularity, Lima is not among the most common names worldwide, which contributes to its uniqueness. According to data from the Social Security Administration in the United States, Lima has been given to fewer than five boys each year since 1990, making it a rare find even within Peruvian communities.
Overall, the name Lima offers an appealing blend of uniqueness, cultural significance, and historical importance. Its meaning as "speaker" or "orator" adds depth to the name, suggesting eloquence and wisdom. Parents who choose this name for their child may be drawn to its international appeal, rich history, and distinctive sound.
Based on the statistics provided, the name Lima has been given to a total of 171 babies born in the United States over a span of more than a century, from 1897 to 2023.
The name's popularity has fluctuated over time. In the early 1900s, there were periods where the name was given to more than five babies per year, reaching a peak of eight births in 1917 and 1927. However, from the 1930s to the late 20th century, the name's usage declined significantly, with fewer than five babies being named Lima each year.
In recent years, however, there has been a resurgence in the use of the name Lima. From 2009 onwards, the number of babies named Lima has remained consistently above five per year, with peaks of eight births in 2014 and seven births in both 2017 and 2021.
This trend suggests that the name Lima is currently enjoying a renewed popularity among parents in the United States. As of 2023, the name continues to be given to babies at a steady rate, with five births recorded so far this year.