The name Jamala is of African origin, derived from the Swahili language. In Swahili, "Jama" means "sweet" or "beautiful", and "la" signifies "peace". Therefore, the name Jamala combines these two meanings to represent beauty and peace.
The name Jamala has a rich history in Africa, particularly among the Swahili-speaking communities. It was often given to girls born during times of peace and prosperity, as it was believed that the name would bring good fortune and harmony to the child's life. The name has also been popularized by notable figures such as Jamala.fr, a Canadian singer-songwriter who gained international recognition after winning Eurovision Song Contest in 2016 with her powerful ballad "1944".
In modern times, Jamala continues to be a popular name among African communities and beyond. It is often seen as a symbol of beauty, grace, and serenity. The name has also been embraced by people of diverse backgrounds who appreciate its unique sound and meaning.
Overall, the name Jamala carries a profound sense of heritage, culture, and harmony that continues to resonate with people around the world.
The name Jamala has been a relatively uncommon choice for newborns in the United States over the past five decades, with only 103 recorded births between 1972 and 2001. The name first appeared on the birth records in 1972, with just five girls receiving this unique moniker that year. The following year saw an increase to seven births, but it dropped back down to six in 1974 before rising again to ten births in 1975.
The years 1976 and 1977 both saw eight Jamalas born each year, followed by five more in 1978. However, there was a significant peak in popularity for the name in 1979, with twelve newborn girls named Jamala that year – the highest number recorded during this period.
After this spike, the number of Jamala births began to fluctuate once again: six girls were named Jamala both in 1981 and 1983, followed by another six in 1985. The years 1987 and 1991 saw five Jamalas each, while there was one final peak of nine births recorded in 1988.
Despite these ups and downs throughout the decades, it's clear that the name Jamala has remained quite rare among newborns in the United States. With only a total of 103 births over nearly three decades, parents who choose this distinctive name for their daughters are likely opting for something truly unique and memorable.