Kandra is a unique and exotic name of African origin, specifically from the Maasai tribe in Kenya and Tanzania. It is not as widely known or used outside of these regions, making it quite distinctive.
The meaning behind the name Kandra is somewhat unclear, as it is not one of the more commonly recorded Maasai names and its origins are difficult to trace precisely due to the oral tradition of naming practices among this tribe. However, some sources suggest that Kandra may be associated with the Maasai word "kande," which means "to stretch out" or "to extend." This could imply a metaphorical meaning related to reaching out, expanding one's horizons, or embracing new experiences.
Historically, the Maasai people have used names that reflect their culture and way of life. They are semi-nomadic herders who live in close harmony with nature, and their naming practices often draw from elements of their environment and traditions. It is possible that Kandra was given to a child born during a time when the family was embarking on a new journey or facing significant change, as such events could be represented by the concept of stretching out or extending.
In terms of history, there are no famous historical figures with the name Kandra, likely due to its relative rarity. However, this does not diminish the significance of the name within Maasai culture and heritage.
Today, Kandra remains a unique choice for parents looking for an uncommon yet meaningful name for their child. While it may be unfamiliar to some, its African origins and potential meanings make it a compelling option for those seeking something different from traditional Western names.
The given statistics track the annual number of births with the name Kandra in the United States from 1947 to 2013. During this period, there was a significant increase in the popularity of the name, reaching its peak between 1977 and 1984.
In 1947, only five babies were named Kandra, but by 1984, that number had risen to 60 births in a single year. This marked an impressive 12x increase in popularity over the course of three decades. However, after reaching its zenith in the mid-1980s, the name's popularity began to decline.
From 1985 onwards, the annual number of Kandra births consistently fell, with notable exceptions in 1986 and 1987 when it surpassed 50 births each year. By the early 2000s, fewer than ten babies were being named Kandra annually.
Throughout the entire period from 1947 to 2013, a total of 1,340 babies were named Kandra in the United States. This demonstrates that while the name may not have been extremely common during this time, it was still chosen for a significant number of newborns over several decades.
In conclusion, these statistics illustrate the fluctuations in popularity of the name Kandra over time in the United States, with a notable peak in the mid-1980s and a steady decline thereafter.