Vanity Name: Complete Etymology, Meaning & Popularity Analysis
Summary
The name 'Vanity' has its roots in the Latin word 'vanitas', meaning emptiness or futility. It evolved through several languages, including Old French and Middle English, to its modern form. The term primarily refers to excessive pride in one's appearance or achievements. Although it does not have a biblical background, it has been widely used in literature and moral discussions. The concept has a negative connotation in modern times, reflecting on superficial traits. Notable figures associated with the name include the singer Vanity and the cultural magazine Vanity Fair.
Etymology & Cultural Background of "Vanity"
Pronunciation
/ˈvænɪti/
Origin
Latin
Etymology
The term 'vanity' derives from the Latin word 'vanitas', which means 'emptiness' or 'futility'. It is historically associated with the concept of vanity as a form of pride or excessive belief in one's appearance or worth.
Meaning
excessive pride in or admiration of one's own appearance or achievements
Language Evolution
Latin: vanitas, Old French: vanité, Middle English: vanite, Modern English: vanity
Historical Usage
The term gained popularity in the English language during the late Middle Ages, often associated with moral and religious themes, particularly in literature and sermons.
Variants & Derivatives
Vanita, Vanity Fair
Modern Popularity & Image
In contemporary usage, 'vanity' often carries a negative connotation, suggesting superficiality and a lack of depth in character. It is commonly referenced in discussions about self-image and materialism.
Famous People
Vanity (Denise Katrina Matthews), Canadian singer and actress, Vanity Fair (the magazine, which explores various cultural topics)
📊 Vanity Name Trend Analysis
Girl Name Trend
Recent 3-Year Analysis
Explore More Vanity Name Visualizations
✨ Vanity Name Meaning & Significance
Popularity Trend
Less Common name with 116 peak births in 1988
Geographic Spread
Popular across 17 US states, with strongest presence in Texas
Historical Span
Data spanning 145 years from 1880 to 2024, showing long-term trends
Generational Impact
Influenced 3 different American generations with varying popularity
🔊 Same Pronunciation Names for "Vanity" - Complete Guide (1 Names)
Discover the ultimate list of homophone names and same pronunciation names that sound identical to "Vanity". These names share the same pronunciation but may have different spellings, offering alternative options for parents seeking similar-sounding names. Whether you're looking for American or British pronunciation variations, this comprehensive guide includes 1 carefully curated names that maintain the same phonetic sound.
Why explore same pronunciation names? Many parents search for homophone names to find alternative spellings that might be more unique or culturally significant. This ultimate list covers both American and British pronunciation patterns, ensuring you find the perfect variation of "Vanity" that fits your preferences.
Historical Birth Statistics for the Name "Vanity"
Note: Years with identical rankings may represent different numbers of births. Data is sourced from Social Security card applications for births in the United States.
Yearly Ranking History of "Vanity"
"Vanity" Popularity Across American Generations
| Generation | Gender | Rank | Total Names |
|---|---|---|---|
| Millennials (Gen Y) (1981-1996) | Girl | 2055th of 27321 | 957 |
| Generation Z (Gen Z or Zoomers) (1997-2012) | Girl | 3960th of 35406 | 567 |
| Generation Alpha (2013-2024) | Girl | 4967th of 30306 | 321 |
Regional Popularity of "Vanity" by Generation for Male Names
| TOP(%) | MidWest | Northeast | South | West |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| G.I. Generation (1901-1927) |
- | - | - | - |
| Silent Generation (1928-1945) |
- | - | - | - |
| Baby Boomers (1946-1964) |
- | - | - | - |
| Generation X (Gen X) (1965-1980) |
- | - | - | - |
| Millennials (Gen Y) (1981-1996) |
- | - | - | - |
| Generation Z (Gen Z or Zoomers) (1997-2012) |
- | - | - | - |
| Generation Alpha (2013-2024) |
- | - | - | - |
Regional Popularity of "Vanity" by Generation for Female Names
| TOP(%) | MidWest | Northeast | South | West |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| G.I. Generation (1901-1927) |
- | - | - | - |
| Silent Generation (1928-1945) |
- | - | - | - |
| Baby Boomers (1946-1964) |
- | - | - | - |
| Generation X (Gen X) (1965-1980) |
- | - | - | - |
| Millennials (Gen Y) (1981-1996) |
53.51% 1972nd/3685 |
43.51% 1947th/4475 |
31.32% 1627th/5194 |
37.52% 2370th/6317 |
| Generation Z (Gen Z or Zoomers) (1997-2012) |
100.00% 4582nd/4582 |
100.00% 5164th/5164 |
40.19% 2939th/7313 |
36.41% 2717th/7463 |
| Generation Alpha (2013-2024) |
- | - |
59.79% 4079th/6822 |
57.27% 3594th/6276 |
State-by-State Popularity of "Vanity"
This map shows the relative popularity of "Vanity" across states, calculated by dividing the number of births with this name in each state by the total births in that state. This methodology provides a standardized measure of popularity regardless of state population size.
Comprehensive Regional & Generational Popularity Trends of "Vanity" in the United States
The name Vanity is most popular in Texas, USA across all generations. It ranks highest as a Girl name among the Millennials (Gen Y) generation in the South region. Recent 3-year trends show this Girl name is maintaining steady popularity, while the 25-year trend indicates it has been relatively stable. From 2020-2022, Vanity has been stalled for female in MidWest, stalled for female in Northeast, stalled for female in South, stalled for female in West. The long-term 25-year analysis reveals it has been stalled for female in MidWest, stalled for female in Northeast, stalled for female in South, stalled for female in West. Across generations, 'Vanity' has shown interesting popularity patterns: Among the Millennials (Gen Y) (1981-1996), it ranked 2055th out of 27321 names. Among the Generation Z (Gen Z or Zoomers) (1997-2012), it ranked 3960th out of 35406 names. Among the Generation Alpha (2013-2024), it ranked 4967th out of 30306 names. Discover how the name 'Vanity' has evolved through American history with our comprehensive regional and generational analysis.