Meaning, origin, history
Bishop is a name of English origin that has been used for centuries, with its roots tracing back to the medieval period. It is derived from the Old English word 'bisceop', which means 'bishop'. In the Middle Ages, this term was used to refer to the highest rank of clergy in the Christian Church.
The name Bishop gained popularity during the Victorian era, when many parents began using it as a given name rather than just a title. Today, Bishop is still primarily used as a male name, although there are some instances where it has been used for females as well.
One interesting aspect of the name Bishop is its association with royalty. For example, Bishop William of Durham was a close advisor to King Henry II in the 12th century, and there have been several other notable bishops throughout history who played significant roles in political and religious affairs.
Overall, while Bishop may not be as common a given name today compared to some other options out there, it remains a strong and distinctive choice with a rich historical background.
In numbers
Popularity of the name Bishop since 1880
Total births
6,631
Total since 1880
Peak year
2021
221 births
in 2023
172
Recent births (5 years)
5-year trend
+30%
↗
vs previous 5 years