Origin
Aminata is of African origin, particularly from West African languages such as Mandinka, where it is a feminine given name meaning 'trustworthy' or 'faithful'. The name has historical mentions in oral histories and literature across West Africa, and it gained some recognition through its use in French and African diasporic communities globally. In Australian contexts, it is a relatively uncommon but culturally significant name among African immigrant communities and those of African descent.
Meaning
Literal translation: 'trustworthy' or 'faithful'. In Australian English contexts, it culturally connotes qualities of reliability, loyalty, and integrity, often appreciated in community and family settings.
Pronunciation
/ˌæmɪˈnɑːtɑː/ (Australian English pronunciation with stress on the third syllable). It is pronounced as ah-mee-NAH-tah, with a soft emphasis on the second syllable.
Variants & Nicknames
Variants
- Aminata (original spelling)
- Amnata (less common variation)
- Amineeta (phonetic variant)
Nicknames
- Ami
- Nata
- Mina
Name Days
- Not widely observed in traditional Christian calendars, but some Christian communities may celebrate Saint Aminata's day on 15 August (commemoration of Saint Amata, a Christian martyr) depending on denominational calendars.
- For Māori and Aboriginal communities, no specific date aligns with the name, but cultural celebrations such as Matariki or Indigenous Languages Week can be occasions to honour names and their significance.
- Name days are not a prominent tradition for this name in Australia, but personal or community celebrations focusing on cultural heritage are relevant.
Name Pairings
Names that pair well with aminata:
- Amara and Aminata
- Amie and Aminata
- Grace and Aminata
Fun Facts
- Aminata gained global recognition through the character Aminata Diallo in the novel 'The Book of Night Women' by Marlon James, which has been influential in literary circles.
- The name is used by a few prominent African-Australian women in arts and advocacy, helping to promote cultural diversity awareness in Australia.
- There are no major Australian public figures with the name, but its phonetic resonance makes it popular in diaspora communities.
Personality Traits
Common traits associated with the name aminata:
- Loyal
- Trustworthy
- Resilient
- Culturally proud
Aesthetic Qualities
The name has an elegant and rhythmic quality, with soft vowel sounds and a balanced syllabic structure, suitable for both formal and informal contexts in Australian English.
Geographical Distribution
More commonly found in major urban centres with diverse populations, such as Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane, where immigrant communities from Africa and West Asia are concentrated.
Numerological Significance
Calculated as name number 7, associated with introspection, spiritual awareness, and analytical thinking. Considered auspicious for personal growth and success.
Astrological Connections
No specific astrological associations, but the number 7 resonates with a quest for knowledge and inner wisdom according to numerology principles, aligning with personal development astrology.
Historical Context
While not historically prominent in Australian history, the name has gained recognition through multicultural and diaspora influences. It is associated with cultural resilience and the celebration of African heritage in Australia.
Linguistic Adaptability
The name adapts well across languages, maintaining pronunciation while being transcribed into Latin alphabets. Its African roots may lead to variations in spelling and pronunciation within different dialects.
Famous People Named aminata
- Aminata Diallo (Fictional Character) - Literature
- Aminata Soumare (Activist) - Community Leader in Melbourne
- Aminata Kamara (Young Athlete) - Representing Australia in athletics
Popularity in Australia
| Year | Count |
|---|---|
| 2024 | 1 |
| 2016 | 1 |
| 2015 | 1 |