Amanda

Amanda is a female given name of Latin origin. It derives from amandus, the gerundive form of amare, meaning “to love,” and is commonly interpreted as “worthy of love” or “lovable.” The form Amanda is the feminine form of the adjective and has been adopted into many languages, where it remains widely used.

The name has a long history in English-speaking and other European cultures, becoming especially popular in the 19th and 20th centuries. In the United States, Amanda rose to prominence in the mid-to-late 20th century and has remained a recognizable name in the 21st century, though its usage has fluctuated in different regions over time. It is used in many languages and cultures, often without changed spelling.

Notable people named Amanda include American actress Amanda Bynes (born 1986), American actress Amanda Seyfried (born 1985), American musician Amanda Palmer (born 1976), American actress Amanda Peet (born 1972), and American poet Amanda Gorman (born 1998). Amanda Knox, an American author and advocate, is also widely known for her case and subsequent writings.

In fiction, the name Amanda appears for several characters, including Amanda Waller, a government operative in DC Comics, and Amanda Grayson, Spock’s human mother in the Star Trek franchise. The name’s broad usage across real and fictional contexts reflects its enduring appeal as a classic, name with Latin roots.