Fitzroy is a unique and distinguished given name of Irish origin. The name is derived from the Norman-French word 'fils' meaning 'son', combined with the English word 'roi' meaning 'king'. Thus, Fitzroy translates to 'son of the king'.
The name has a rich history dating back to the Middle Ages when it was used as an affix or prefix in the surnames of illegitimate sons of kings. One of the most notable figures bearing this name is Charles FitzRoy, 1st Duke of Cleveland, who was an illegitimate son of King Charles II of England.
Despite its historical significance and royal connections, Fitzroy has never been a popular given name. Its uniqueness makes it stand out among other names, giving those who bear it a distinctive identity. In recent times, the name has gained some traction in popular culture, appearing in television shows and literature, which may contribute to its growing recognition.
In conclusion, Fitzroy is an uncommon yet regal name with Irish roots and royal connections. Its unique origin and history make it a fascinating choice for parents seeking an unusual yet meaningful name for their child.
The name Fitzroy has been given to babies born in the United States over the past several decades, with a noticeable trend of increasing popularity during certain periods.
In the late 1960s and early 1970s, there was an average of about 5 births per year with this name. However, beginning in the late 1980s, there was a significant increase in the number of babies named Fitzroy each year. In 1988, there were 11 births, which rose to 15 births in 1989 and 10 births in 1990.
The popularity of the name Fitzroy continued to fluctuate throughout the 1990s, with a high of 9 births in 1995 and a low of 5 births in both 2000 and 2001. There was another spike in popularity during the late 2010s, with 5 births in 2017 and another 5 births in 2019.
In recent years, the name Fitzroy has continued to be given to newborns at a consistent rate of about 5-6 births per year. Overall, since 1964, there have been a total of 184 babies named Fitzroy born in the United States.
It is interesting to note that while the popularity of this name has varied over time, it has consistently remained relatively rare compared to other names given to babies in the U.S.