Name of the Week: Anjali

November 26

Introducing: Name of the Week!

Each Sunday, in replacement of the usual Name of the Day newsletter, we will be featuring a Name of the Week chosen by you!

The Name of the Week will be selected through the “name of the day” thread over on the forums, where you can share a name you are feeling inspired by or loving a little extra that day. One name nominated on the thread each week — determined by what names are getting the most likes — will be featured in this weekly series.

This week’s feature is Anjali — nominated by @smileymiley

Anjali

— “uhn-juh-lee” —

The name Anjali is Sanskrit in origin — an ancient language that arose in South Asia, which would sculpt many of the Indian languages spoken today. Sanskrit is also the sacred language of Hinduism, as well as having significance in other Asian religions like Buddhism and Jainism.

Anjali means “gift”, but culturally has significance as well. Historically, the word “Anjali” has been used to mean an offering, as well as being said as a sign of respect or as a greeting.

Anjali has been a popular girl’s name in India — so much so that it has popped up on the US charts (between 2000 and 2005) from its popularity amongst Indian parents in America. Last year, 88 baby girls were named Anjali in the US.

In English, the name also coincidentally resembles the word “angel”, adding a ethereal touch in line with names like Angelina and Evangeline.