The name Sahara is of Arabic origin and it means "desert". It is derived from the Arabic word "Ṣaḥrāʾ" which refers to the vast desert region that covers much of North Africa. The Sahara desert is known for its harsh, dry climate and beautiful sand dunes.
The name Sahara has been used as a given name for girls in various cultures around the world, particularly in the Middle East, Africa, and some Western countries. It gained popularity in the United States during the late 20th century, with its peak usage being in the mid-1990s.
Historically, the Sahara desert has played an important role in shaping African history and culture. It has been a barrier between different civilizations but also a route for trade and cultural exchange through camel caravans that traversed its sands. The name Sahara may have gained popularity due to this rich historical context, as well as its association with the beauty and mystery of the desert landscape.
Today, the name Sahara continues to be used around the world, perhaps appealing to parents who wish to give their daughters a unique and meaningful name with deep roots in history and culture. Despite its original meaning relating to dryness and desolation, people named Sahara often bring warmth and vibrancy into the lives of those around them.
The name Sahara experiences significant growth in popularity from the late 1980s onwards, with a notable spike in births starting in 2005. The name first exceeds 100 births per year in 1999 and has remained popular ever since, with over 100 births annually every year since then except for 2013 and 2014. However, there was a decrease in popularity after the peak in 2006-2008, with births consistently below 200 per year until 2017. The name's popularity has stabilized in recent years, with around 120 to 150 births annually since 2017.