Meaning, origin, history
Tiwanda is a unique and uncommon female given name of African American origin. It is believed to have been created by the author and poet Alice Walker in her novel "The Color Purple", which was published in 1982.
In the novel, Tiwanda is one of the main characters and is portrayed as a young girl who is strong-willed and independent. Her name has been interpreted by some as meaning "beautiful dawn" or "morning star" in African languages such as Swahili or Yoruba, although there is no concrete evidence to support this claim.
The origin of the name Tiwanda is unclear, but it is possible that Walker created it to reflect the character's unique personality and background. The novel explores themes of racism, sexism, and abuse, and Tiwanda's story is one of resilience and empowerment in the face of adversity.
Despite its literary origins, Tiwanda has not become a widely popular name in the United States or elsewhere. According to data from the Social Security Administration, only a handful of babies have been named Tiwanda each year since the novel was published.
Nevertheless, for those who are drawn to its unique sound and meaning, Tiwanda remains an attractive and distinctive choice for a baby girl's name. It is a name that celebrates individuality, strength, and empowerment, making it a fitting tribute to Alice Walker's powerful literary legacy.
In numbers
Popularity of the name Tiwanda since 1880
Total births
177
Total since 1880
Peak year
1974
15 births
in 1982
8
Recent births (5 years)
5-year trend
0%
→
vs previous 5 years