What’s in a name? For Ambrose, it’s a rich history tied to the concept of immortality and a recent resurgence in popularity. If you’re considering baby names, Ambrose deserves a closer look. This article delves into the meaning, history, popularity trends, and alternative names related to Ambrose, providing a comprehensive overview for prospective parents.
Ambrose is a classic boy’s name with Greek origins. It derives from the word "ambrosios," meaning "immortal" or "divine." In Greek mythology, ambrosia was the food of the gods, conferring immortality upon those who consumed it. Therefore, the name Ambrose carries a powerful connotation of eternal life and divine favor. The name suggests strength, wisdom, and a connection to something greater than oneself. Historically, Saint Ambrose, a 4th-century bishop of Milan, is a prominent figure associated with the name, further cementing its historical significance and connection to intellect and religious authority.
Ambrose Name Popularity
How popular is the name Ambrose? The data provides a fascinating glimpse into its fluctuating fortunes over the past century. Let’s examine the trends:
The provided data from SSA.gov shows that Ambrose has experienced varying degrees of popularity in the United States since 1910. It was moderately common in the early 20th century, consistently ranking within the top 500 names.
- Early 20th Century (1910-1930s): Ambrose enjoyed relatively steady popularity. It peaked in the 1910s and 1920s, with rankings generally between 400 and 500. In 1917, for example, the name ranked 405 with 151 births, representing 0.0151% of total births.
- Mid 20th Century (1940s-1980s): A significant decline occurred during this period. After 1940, the name’s rank sharply dropped, with many years showing very few or even zero recorded births. This decline mirrors broader trends in naming conventions, as classic names sometimes fall out of favor for a period before experiencing a revival.
- Late 20th and Early 21st Century (1990s-2010s): The name remained relatively uncommon. While it occasionally appeared in the data, the number of births was generally low, and the rankings were often below 2000.
- Recent Resurgence (2018-2023): Ambrose has witnessed a notable comeback in recent years. Starting around 2018, the name’s popularity began to climb significantly. In 2019, it ranked 900 with 168 births (0.0124%), followed by 868 in 2020 (207 births, 0.0163%), 670 in 2021 (358 births, 0.0293%), 727 in 2022 (314 births, 0.0238%), and 799 in 2023 (266 births, 0.0206%). This upward trend indicates a growing appreciation for the name’s classic charm and unique appeal.
Detailed Popularity Data:
| Year | Rank | # Births | % Births |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1910 | 427 | 13 | 0.0037% |
| 1911 | 437 | 16 | 0.0043% |
| 1912 | 418 | 48 | 0.0095% |
| 1913 | 425 | 63 | 0.0111% |
| 1914 | 402 | 100 | 0.0143% |
| 1915 | 420 | 123 | 0.0135% |
| 1916 | 415 | 137 | 0.0142% |
| 1917 | 405 | 151 | 0.0151% |
| 1918 | 452 | 129 | 0.012% |
| 1919 | 436 | 143 | 0.0137% |
| 1920 | 417 | 162 | 0.0146% |
| 1921 | 451 | 144 | 0.0126% |
| 1922 | 490 | 120 | 0.0108% |
| 1923 | 505 | 111 | 0.0099% |
| 1924 | 513 | 111 | 0.0096% |
| 1925 | 526 | 100 | 0.0088% |
| 1926 | 508 | 106 | 0.0096% |
| 1927 | 612 | 70 | 0.0063% |
| 1928 | 566 | 79 | 0.0074% |
| 1929 | 671 | 50 | 0.0048% |
| 1930 | 627 | 60 | 0.0057% |
| … | … | … | … |
| 2018 | 1350 | 62 | 0.0045% |
| 2019 | 900 | 168 | 0.0124% |
| 2020 | 868 | 207 | 0.0163% |
| 2021 | 670 | 358 | 0.0293% |
| 2022 | 727 | 314 | 0.0238% |
| 2023 | 799 | 266 | 0.0206% |
Data via SSA.gov
The reasons for this resurgence are likely multifaceted. Parents may be drawn to the name’s unique sound, its historical significance, or its positive connotations. The trend toward vintage and classic names is also contributing to Ambrose’s renewed appeal.
Names Like Ambrose
If you’re drawn to Ambrose but seeking alternatives, consider these options:
Diminutives of Ambrose:
- Amsden: "From Ambrose’s valley" (English). A unique and nature-inspired option.
Variants of Ambrose:
- Am: "Immortal; to carry; borne by God" (Hebrew). A short and powerful choice.
- Ambie: "Immortal" (Greek). A sweet and endearing variant.
- Ambroeus, Ambroggio, Ambrogio, Ambroise, Ambros, Ambrosi, Ambrosio, Ambrosios, Ambrosius, Ambrossij, Ambroz, Ambrus, Amby: All variations of the name with the same meaning, "immortal" (Greek). These offer subtle differences in sound and spelling.
- Brose: "Immortal" (Greek). A less common, more modern-sounding variant.
- Emrys: "Immortal" (Welsh). A distinct and mystical alternative with Welsh roots.
Names That Sound Like Ambrose:
- Umbro: "Shade" (French). A similar-sounding name with a different meaning and origin.
Similar Names:
- Merlin: "Sea fortress" (Welsh). A legendary name with a strong and magical feel.
Choosing a name is a deeply personal decision. The information provided here is intended to help you explore the rich history and current popularity of Ambrose, as well as consider alternative options that may resonate with your preferences. Good luck with your naming journey!