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 L

Written by Shikha Thakur, MBA Specialty: Relationships and Baby NamesExperience: 7 years

Shikha is a writer-turned-editor at MomJunction, with over seven years of experience in the field of content. Having done a certification in Relationship Coaching, her core interest lies in writing articles that guide couples through their courtship to marriage and parenthood.

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Edited by Siddharth Kesiraju, MA, Certification in Relationship Coaching Specialty: Love, Marriage and RelationshipsExperience: 7 years

Siddharth holds a certification in Relationship Coaching and a masters degree in communication and journalism from the University of Hyderabad. He has around seven years of experience in various fields of writing and editing.

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Fact-checked by Praggya Joshi, MA, BEd Specialty: Child education & activitiesExperience: 2 years

Praggya Joshi holds a bachelor's degree in Education and a master's in Ancient Indian History from University of Delhi. She has a robust knowledge of literature, society, and ethics. Praggya has been a content writer since 2021, researching and writing on education, health and wellness, and travel.

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Last Updated on Oct 3, 2023

Illustration: MomJunction Design Team

Name	Gender	Meaning
Lamar	Boy	Of the sea; Liquid gold
Lamarcus	Boy	God of War; Mars; Male
Laiya	Unisex	Weary
Lamir	Unisex	The pool
Laiyah	Girl	Weary; Grieved
Lamarr	Boy	Of the sea; Pool
Lavar	Boy	An African American name
Lamaya	Girl	Good mother; Dame; Foster mother
Latrell	Girl	Noble; Eager
Lachelle	Boy	Who is like Yahweh

Latanya	Girl	An establisher
Lakesha	Girl	Cassia; Cinnamon
Lakisha	Girl	Cassia; Cinnamon; Joyous and lively woman
Lateisha	Girl	A feeling of happiness and joy
Latricia	Girl	Noble; Patrician
Lakeisha	Girl	Cassia; Cinnamon
Larisha	Unisex	Citadel
Ladawn	Unisex	The dawn; Lady; Ruler of the world
Latara	Girl	Elevated place
Lavon	Unisex	Yew; Lion; White

Luscious	Unisex	Light
Lashika	Unisex	Light

Infographic: Meaningful African American Baby Names with Meanings, Starting With L

If you are ready to embark on the journey to find a meaningful name for your child, check out our infographic below. It shares a list of African American Baby Names with Meanings, Starting With L that are elegant and distinct. These options are selected from diverse cultures and languages, offering you the best baby name options worldwide. Scroll through the list to find a suitable name based on your preference and liking.

African American Baby Names with Meanings, Starting With L(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.