The name Wilson carries a sense of history and familiarity. But how popular is the name Wilson today, and what other names resonate with its classic appeal? Let’s delve into the fascinating world of Wilson, exploring its popularity trends and uncovering similar names that might capture your heart.
Wilson Name Popularity: A Historical Perspective
The popularity of Wilson has fluctuated significantly over the past century. Analyzing data from the Social Security Administration (SSA), we can observe its journey through time.
The provided table reveals a detailed year-by-year breakdown of the name’s rank, the number of births, and the percentage of births attributed to the name Wilson. Examining this data reveals interesting trends:
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Early 20th Century Peak: Wilson enjoyed a significant surge in popularity during the early 1900s, particularly from 1910 to 1920. The name reached ranks as high as 122nd in 1918 with 1,367 births, representing 0.1274% of total births. This peak coincides with the presidency of Woodrow Wilson (1913-1921), suggesting a potential influence of this prominent figure on naming trends.
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Mid-Century Decline: Following its initial peak, Wilson experienced a gradual decline in popularity throughout the mid-20th century. By the 1970s, its rank had fallen to the 500s, and the number of births decreased considerably. This shift reflects broader changes in naming preferences as newer, more contemporary names gained traction.
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Late 20th Century Fluctuations and Early 21st Century Trends: The latter part of the 20th century saw some fluctuations. In recent years, while not reaching its former glory, Wilson maintains a presence and has seen modest gains in popularity in recent years. In 2023 it ranked 667, with 365 births and 0.0282% of total births. This suggests that Wilson is still a choice for parents seeking a classic and enduring name for their son.
Geographical Distribution: A Closer Look
While the data provides a national overview, it also offers insights into regional variations. For instance, the chart indicates the name’s prevalence in the District of Columbia (DC) over the years. Though limited, the DC data shows when the name was more prevalent in the region. Such granular data helps to paint a more complete picture of Wilson’s appeal across different geographical areas.
Names Like Wilson: Exploring Alternatives
If you’re drawn to the charm of Wilson but seek alternatives, several names share a similar sound or meaning:
- Willson: A variant spelling of Wilson, offering a subtle twist. It is of German origin, meaning "Will helmet, protection; son of William".
- Allson: An English name meaning "Son of the noble," Allson offers a regal alternative.
- Ellson: Another English name, Ellson means "Son of Ellis" and is similar in sound.
- Elson: Of English origin, meaning "Son of Ellis; Elli’s town."
- William: William is a classic German name meaning "A willing protector," William is a strong and timeless choice.
Sibling Names: What Goes Well With Wilson?
Considering sibling names can also spark inspiration. According to data, parents who choose Wilson for their son sometimes opt for Harrison for a sibling. Harrison, also of English origin, means "Son of Harry."
Conclusion: The Enduring Appeal of Wilson
Wilson is a name steeped in history, with a fluctuating yet enduring presence in naming trends. Its association with a prominent president and its classic sound contribute to its timeless appeal. Whether you’re drawn to its historical significance, its geographical variations, or its resemblance to other appealing names, Wilson remains a solid choice for parents seeking a name with character and depth. The name Wilson continues to resonate with those seeking a name that is both familiar and distinctive.