Choosing a name for your baby is a significant decision, and Harriet is a classic choice with a rich history and charming appeal. This article delves into the popularity of the name Harriet, exploring its origins, meaning, and how it has resonated across generations.
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Harriet Name Popularity
How popular is the name Harriet? Let’s explore its journey through the years, analyzing its ranking and frequency of use.
The data from the Social Security Administration (SSA) reveals fascinating trends. Harriet experienced a surge in popularity in the early 20th century. From 1910 to the 1940s, Harriet consistently ranked within the top 200 names for girls in the United States. Its peak popularity occurred in the late 1910s and early 1920s, a period where it was a fairly common choice.
Historical Trends:
| Year | Rank | # Births | % Births |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1910 | 132 | 588 | 0.167% |
| 1911 | 115 | 763 | 0.2049% |
| 1912 | 112 | 1,018 | 0.2019% |
| 1913 | 126 | 1,016 | 0.1792% |
| 1914 | 111 | 1,440 | 0.2066% |
| 1915 | 112 | 1,828 | 0.2012% |
| 1916 | 106 | 2,054 | 0.2126% |
| 1917 | 104 | 2,182 | 0.2181% |
| 1918 | 107 | 2,322 | 0.2164% |
| 1919 | 109 | 2,161 | 0.2064% |
| 1920 | 110 | 2,352 | 0.2115% |
| 1921 | 114 | 2,370 | 0.207% |
| 1922 | 117 | 2,228 | 0.2% |
| 1923 | 122 | 2,184 | 0.195% |
| 1924 | 128 | 2,172 | 0.187% |
| 1925 | 131 | 2,054 | 0.1817% |
| 1926 | 133 | 1,959 | 0.1781% |
| 1927 | 132 | 1,948 | 0.176% |
| 1928 | 133 | 1,771 | 0.1655% |
| 1929 | 134 | 1,691 | 0.1633% |
| 1930 | 138 | 1,587 | 0.1519% |
| 1931 | 142 | 1,402 | 0.142% |
| 1932 | 148 | 1,331 | 0.1347% |
| 1933 | 151 | 1,217 | 0.1306% |
| 1934 | 156 | 1,249 | 0.1292% |
| 1935 | 154 | 1,277 | 0.1314% |
| 1936 | 153 | 1,313 | 0.1363% |
| 1937 | 154 | 1,404 | 0.1425% |
| 1938 | 158 | 1,361 | 0.1329% |
| 1939 | 154 | 1,373 | 0.135% |
| 1940 | 156 | 1,345 | 0.1265% |
| 1941 | 158 | 1,373 | 0.122% |
| 1942 | 161 | 1,416 | 0.1121% |
| 1943 | 166 | 1,417 | 0.1085% |
| 1944 | 170 | 1,231 | 0.0993% |
| 1945 | 176 | 1,143 | 0.0937% |
| 1946 | 188 | 1,284 | 0.087% |
| 1947 | 203 | 1,303 | 0.0781% |
| 1948 | 219 | 1,092 | 0.0684% |
| 1949 | 223 | 1,077 | 0.067% |
| 1950 | 247 | 900 | 0.0559% |
| 1951 | 254 | 892 | 0.0526% |
| 1952 | 271 | 837 | 0.048% |
| 1953 | 294 | 758 | 0.0428% |
| 1954 | 316 | 681 | 0.0373% |
| 1955 | 326 | 658 | 0.0358% |
| 1956 | 365 | 540 | 0.0286% |
| 1957 | 382 | 518 | 0.0269% |
| 1958 | 410 | 472 | 0.025% |
| 1959 | 415 | 479 | 0.0252% |
| 1960 | 453 | 425 | 0.0224% |
| 1961 | 460 | 413 | 0.0219% |
| 1962 | 490 | 341 | 0.0186% |
| 1963 | 513 | 313 | 0.0174% |
| 1964 | 602 | 229 | 0.013% |
| 1965 | 568 | 238 | 0.0146% |
| 1966 | 654 | 169 | 0.0108% |
| 1967 | 632 | 181 | 0.0119% |
| 1968 | 819 | 105 | 0.007% |
| 1969 | 838 | 101 | 0.0066% |
| 1970 | 799 | 126 | 0.0079% |
| 1971 | 1,089 | 61 | 0.0041% |
| 1972 | 1,114 | 54 | 0.004% |
| 1973 | 1,620 | 20 | 0.0015% |
| 1974 | 1,097 | 59 | 0.0045% |
| 1975 | 1,554 | 26 | 0.002% |
| 1976 | 1,555 | 25 | 0.0019% |
| 1977 | 1,436 | 35 | 0.0026% |
| 1978 | 2,209 | 10 | 0.0007% |
| 1979 | 2,381 | 9 | 0.0006% |
| 1980 | 1,887 | 20 | 0.0014% |
| 1981 | 1,943 | 18 | 0.0012% |
| 1982 | 2,228 | 13 | 0.0009% |
| 1983 | 2,202 | 12 | 0.0008% |
| 1984 | 2,803 | 6 | 0.0004% |
| 1985 | 3,045 | 5 | 0.0003% |
| 1986 | 3,453 | 5 | 0.0003% |
| 1987 | 3,231 | 5 | 0.0003% |
| 1988 | — | 0 | 0% |
| 1989 | 3,751 | 5 | 0.0003% |
| 1990 | 2,847 | 11 | 0.0007% |
| 1991 | 3,981 | 5 | 0.0003% |
| 1992 | 3,200 | 7 | 0.0004% |
| 1993 | 3,674 | 5 | 0.0003% |
| 1994 | 3,424 | 6 | 0.0004% |
| 1995 | 3,169 | 7 | 0.0005% |
| 1996 | 3,650 | 5 | 0.0003% |
| 1997 | 2,851 | 10 | 0.0007% |
| 1998 | 2,995 | 9 | 0.0006% |
| 1999 | 2,817 | 11 | 0.0007% |
| 2000 | 3,882 | 5 | 0.0003% |
| 2001 | — | 0 | 0% |
| 2002 | 3,092 | 9 | 0.0006% |
| 2003 | — | 0 | 0% |
| 2004 | — | 0 | 0% |
| 2005 | 3,387 | 7 | 0.0005% |
| 2006 | 3,117 | 11 | 0.0007% |
| 2007 | 2,458 | 24 | 0.0015% |
| 2008 | 3,709 | 5 | 0.0003% |
| 2009 | 2,433 | 23 | 0.0015% |
| 2010 | 2,904 | 12 | 0.0008% |
| 2011 | 2,122 | 31 | 0.0022% |
| 2012 | 2,172 | 29 | 0.002% |
| 2013 | 1,461 | 80 | 0.0056% |
| 2014 | 1,444 | 81 | 0.0056% |
| 2015 | 1,218 | 126 | 0.0087% |
| 2016 | 1,214 | 123 | 0.0085% |
| 2017 | 1,040 | 166 | 0.0119% |
| 2018 | 970 | 187 | 0.0136% |
| 2019 | 916 | 202 | 0.0149% |
| 2020 | 1,100 | 164 | 0.0129% |
| 2021 | 1,011 | 183 | 0.015% |
| 2022 | 1,201 | 147 | 0.0111% |
| 2023 | 1,144 | 161 | 0.0124% |
After the 1950s, Harriet experienced a decline in usage, reaching its lowest point in the late 20th century. However, the name has seen a resurgence in recent years, indicating a renewed appreciation for its vintage charm. As of 2023, Harriet ranks at 1,144 with 161 births, showing a promising upward trend. This suggests that Harriet is making a comeback as parents seek out classic and sophisticated names.
Meaning and Origin
Harriet is a feminine diminutive of Henry, derived from the Old French name Henri. Its meaning is "home ruler" or "power of the home," signifying strength and domesticity. This strong, yet gentle, meaning contributes to the name’s enduring appeal.
Cultural Significance
The name Harriet is associated with several notable figures throughout history. One of the most famous is Harriet Tubman, an abolitionist and conductor on the Underground Railroad, symbolizing courage and resilience.
Names Like Harriet
If you’re drawn to the name Harriet but want to explore similar options, consider these alternatives:
Diminutives of Harriet:
- Hattie: A sweet and charming diminutive, also meaning "home ruler."
Variants of Harriet:
- Halle: German origin, meaning "home ruler".
- Hallie: Scandinavian origin, a variant spelling of Hally.
- Hariette: German origin, meaning "home ruler".
- Harrie: German origin, meaning "home ruler".
- Harriett: German origin, meaning "home ruler".
- Harrietta: German origin, meaning "home ruler".
- Harriot: German origin, meaning "home ruler".
- Harriott: German origin, meaning "home ruler".
- Harriotte: German origin, meaning "home ruler".
- Hatsee: German origin, meaning "home ruler".
- Hatsey: German origin, meaning "home ruler".
- Hatsie: German origin, meaning "home ruler".
- Hatsy: German origin, meaning "home ruler".
- Hatty: A familiar and endearing short form.
Names That Sound Like Harriet:
- Herta: English origin, meaning "earth."
- Hertha: English origin, meaning "earth."
Conclusion
Harriet is a name with a rich past, a meaningful origin, and a promising future. Its vintage charm, strong meaning, and association with inspiring figures make it a timeless choice for parents seeking a classic and sophisticated name for their daughter. While its popularity has fluctuated over the years, its recent resurgence suggests that Harriet is ready to reclaim its place as a beloved and enduring name.