Thankful Names

Hello, readers!

This week the United States celebrates Thanksgiving; though it's hard not to be cynical about it, taking time to be thankful for what we have and who we spend our lives with is a worthy tradition. So, in this year of trials and tribulations, let's look at the good people and parts of our life that make us truly happy.

Here are some names from around the world that mean "thankful."

Thankful

Alright, so this name may be a bit on the nose. Thankful was actually a not-uncommon name in Puritan communities, where virtue names flourished (Emily Dickinson had multiple Thankful's in her family). Today, it may not work as seamlessly, but check out some related options below. 

Shakir

Also spelled Shaqir, this Arabic name was first recorded in the US in 1971. It's highest rate of usage was in 1993 - around the same time Shakira started getting popular in the states. The Colombian singer definitely had an impact on this name, so the male form may feel more unique and less iconic. 

Jadon

Though origin stories differ, some sites list this mega-popular name as coming from the Hebrew word for "thankful." Jadon and it's dozen spellings have dominated the top 1000 for awhile, replacing John, Jason, and Justin. What will the next J---n name be? (Jefferson has my vote!)

Zendaya

This Disney Channel star single-handedly brought her lovely Z-name to the top 1000 - it debuted in 2014, and now ranks at #801 and rising. Zendaya means "to give thanks" in the Shona language (spoken in regions of south-central Africa). Another name from this origin? Tendai. 

Zikomo

Only recorded in the United States once - five babies in 1978 - this name from Malawi's Yao language is another zippy choice with personality and promise. Being that it's so rare, it may raise a few eyebrows - but families with a Yao background may find Zikomo inspiring. 

Merci

Rising in popularity for the past few years, Merci is a creative spelling of virtue name Mercy - but it's also French for "thank you." It's a fun twist on multiple names, from mid-century Marcy to pretty Marisol to the aforementioned Mercy, and may work well for a quirky individual. 

Tell me what you're thankful for in the comments!