The name Norman evokes a sense of history and strength. But how popular is the name Norman today, and what lies behind its enduring appeal? Let’s delve into the world of this classic moniker.
Norman is of German origin, specifically from the words "north" and "man," essentially meaning "Northman" or "Viking." This powerful etymology links the name to the hardy Norsemen who explored and settled vast territories centuries ago. The name carries a sense of adventure, resilience, and a connection to the sea.
Norman Name Popularity: A Historical Perspective
Looking at the Social Security Administration (SSA) data, we can see a clear trend in Norman’s popularity over the past century.
| Year | Rank | # Births | % Births |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1910 | 62 | 534 | 0.1517% |
| 1915 | 50 | 3,258 | 0.3586% |
| 1920 | 47 | 4,100 | 0.3687% |
| 1925 | 41 | 4,965 | 0.4393% |
| 1930 | 40 | 5,295 | 0.5069% |
| 1935 | 38 | 5,039 | 0.5185% |
| 1940 | 48 | 4,575 | 0.4304% |
| 1945 | 65 | 3,721 | 0.3051% |
| 1950 | 90 | 3,637 | 0.2259% |
| 1955 | 102 | 3,410 | 0.1854% |
| 1960 | 132 | 2,690 | 0.142% |
| 1965 | 134 | 2,297 | 0.1405% |
| 1970 | 180 | 1,517 | 0.0953% |
| 1975 | 244 | 819 | 0.0637% |
| 1980 | 285 | 694 | 0.0475% |
| 1985 | 337 | 526 | 0.0347% |
| 1990 | 472 | 395 | 0.0238% |
| 1995 | 641 | 215 | 0.0143% |
| 2000 | 691 | 204 | 0.0134% |
| 2005 | 907 | 146 | 0.0095% |
| 2010 | 1,183 | 91 | 0.0063% |
| 2015 | 1,168 | 93 | 0.0064% |
| 2020 | 1,271 | 92 | 0.0072% |
| 2023 | 1,346 | 91 | 0.007% |
As you can see, Norman enjoyed peak popularity in the early to mid-20th century, reaching its highest ranks in the 1920s, 1930s and 1940s. After World War II, its popularity gradually declined. While it’s no longer a top name, it maintains a presence, suggesting a timeless quality.
Geographical Distribution
While the data provided for the District of Columbia is interesting, it represents a very specific and small area. To get a comprehensive understanding of Norman’s geographical popularity, one would need to analyze data across various states and regions of the US, as well as internationally. However, it does show that the name has been used in the District of Columbia.
Names Like Norman
If you appreciate the qualities of the name Norman, here are some other names that share similar characteristics or origins:
- Norm: A short, strong diminutive of Norman.
- Normand: A direct variant of Norman.
- Normando: A Spanish/Italian version of Norman.
- Normen: Another variant of Norman.
- Normie: A more casual diminutive.
- Other Names: Consider names with similar Germanic origins or strong, classic sounds like Bernard, Harold, or Raymond.
Diminutives and Variations
The name Norman offers several options for nicknames and variations:
- Norm
- Normie
- Normand
- Normando
- Normen
The Enduring Appeal of Norman
Despite its decline in popularity from its mid-century peak, Norman remains a solid and respectable name. Its strong meaning, historical associations, and classic sound contribute to its enduring appeal. For parents seeking a name that is both traditional and distinctive, Norman offers a compelling choice.