Ashante

Meaning of Ashante

Ashante is a warm, unisex name of Swahili origin that literally sings “thankful” or “praise,” carrying a spirited energy wherever it goes. In its native Swahili it’s pronounced ah-SHAHN-teh, in French ah-SHAWN-tay, and in English uh-SHAN-tee, so it feels right at home from Timbuktu to Toronto. Though it never dominated baby charts, Ashante enjoyed a steady presence in the U.S. from the late ’70s through the ’90s—peaking around the early ’80s—so it’s familiar without ever feeling overused. Picking Ashante is like choosing a vibrant melody that bridges cultures and generations; it offers the perfect blend of soulful depth and easygoing charm for parents who want their child to stand out with a name that celebrates gratitude and global flair.