Sunny is a unisex given name of American origin. It was popularized by the famous singer and actress, Marilyn Monroe, who used it as her stage name in the early years of her career. However, its popularity has since declined in recent decades.
The name Sunny does not have a specific meaning or etymology tied to it. Instead, it is believed to have been chosen by Marilyn Monroe for its cheerful and optimistic sound. It is often associated with warmth, brightness, and positivity, much like the sun itself.
There are no significant historical figures or characters in literature who bear the name Sunny. However, it has been used as a character name in various films, television shows, and books over the years. For example, there was a character named Sunny in the popular 1970s sitcom "Good Times," played by actress Janet Jackson.
Despite its lack of historical significance or deep meaning, the name Sunny is often chosen for its cheerful sound and positive associations. It is particularly popular among parents who wish to give their child a unique and memorable name with a modern feel.
The name Sunny has been a relatively uncommon choice for parents in the United States over the past century, with fewer than 5 births per year recorded between 1900 and 1970.
However, starting from the early 1970s, there was an increasing trend in the popularity of the name Sunny. Between 1972 and 1980, the number of births with this name ranged from a low of 23 in 1981 to a high of 46 in 1984.
The peak of popularity for the name Sunny occurred between 1985 and 2023. During this period, there were over 100 births with the name Sunny every year, with a significant increase since 2019. In fact, according to the latest data available, there were 189 births in 2021 and a remarkable 160 births in 2022.
Overall, from 1900 to 2023, there have been a total of 4089 babies named Sunny born in the United States. While it may not be one of the most popular names, its popularity has grown significantly over the past few decades, and it continues to be chosen by parents for their children.