How have African American baby naming trends changed over time?

Many African Americans adopted Biblical and European names like John, Mary, and David. But, with the rise of African American movements, like the Civil Rights Movement, the naming trends started shifting towards names inspired by leaders like Rosa and Martin. They also started giving names that celebrated African heritage, such as Quianna and Cleavon.

Can African American baby names be influenced by popular culture?

Yes. Many African American names are influenced by popular culture, including those from music, movies, television, and sports. Some examples include Zendaya, Keisha, LeBron, and Serena.

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22 African American Baby Names with Meanings, Starting With A

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Last Updated on Oct 3, 2023

Illustration: MomJunction Design Team

Name	Gender	Meaning
Akeem	Boy	Wise
Amarion	Boy	Flourishing; To live long; Wished-for child; Sea of bitterness
Alaysia	Girl	Nobility; Noble kind
Alea	Girl	High; Lofty; Sublime
Alayla	Girl	Night
Antwon	Boy	Worthy of praise
Aleeah	Girl	Sublime; High; Exalted
Alaisha	Unisex	Nobleness; Nobility
Anijah	Unisex	God answers
Aamari	Unisex	One who lives a long life; One who builds

Aerial	Unisex	Lion of God; In the air
Ahmani	Unisex	Peace; Wishes
Aleisha	Girl	Exalted; Noble
Adante	Unisex	Enduring; Master
Adanya	Unisex	Eldest daughter of the father
Ajanae	Girl	One who is persistent or persevering
Aaniya	Girl	God has answered me; Favor; Grace; Lofty
Akeisha	Girl	Cassia; Cinnamon
Amary	Unisex	One who lives a long life; One who builds
Arlandria	Unisex	Manly; Masculine; From Arlington or Alexandria

Afternoon	Girl	One who is creative, a risk taker, practical, an art lover, and likes challenges
Amare	Unisex	Long-lived; To live long

Infographic: Exquisite African American Baby Names with Meanings, Starting With A

African American Baby Names with Meanings, Starting With A blend diverse traditions with rich history and cultural influences. Whether you seek a classic name or one infused with contemporary flair, our infographic below has several options that fit most preferences. Explore them to find a perfect name for your precious child. If you find our infographic useful, share it with your fellow parents to introduce them to the world of African American Baby Names with Meanings, Starting With A.

African American Baby Names with Meanings, Starting With A(infographic)

Look Up For Many More Names

Do you have a name in mind and want to know more about it? Or want to find names belonging to a particular origin, religion, or having a specific meaning? Use our search tool below to explore more baby names with different combinations.