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Amanda

Girl name · 7,290 babies recorded · 1974–2025

Amanda: 7,290 babies born in Scotland since 1974, given to girls, peaking at 502 births in 1974.

From Latin *amanda*, meaning “worthy of love” or “beloved,” Amanda first appeared in the 17th century as a poetic invention by playwright Sir Richard Steele. It gained widespread popularity in the 20th century, particularly in English-speaking countries. Notable bearers include actress Amanda Seyfried, known for *Mean Girls* and *Les Misérables*, and poet Amanda Gorman, whose inaugural recital captivated the world in 2021. While the name has few direct place connections, its root shares a sense of affection with the Italian town Amandola. The familiar short form Mandy enjoyed its own heyday in the 1970s and 1980s, and the name appears in literature, including John Updike’s novel *The Witches of Eastwick*.