The name Foster is of English origin and has a rich history and significant meaning behind it. It is derived from the Old Norman French word "fostre" which means "nourisher" or "feeder". This word is a derivative of the Latin word "fosterare", which means to nourish or maintain.
In medieval times, foster was used as a term to describe someone who took in and cared for another person's child. This practice was common among nobles who would send their children away to be raised by other families, often with the intention of fostering political alliances or ensuring the safety of the child during times of war or unrest.
The name Foster has been used as a given name since at least the 17th century in England. It was originally given more frequently to boys than girls, but today it is considered unisex and can be given to children of either gender.
Some famous people who have borne the name Foster include the American actor and singer Foster Brooks, who was known for his comedic impressions of drunken characters, and the British writer and satirist Jonathan Swift, whose full name was Jonathan Swift Foster. The name has also been used in popular culture, such as in the television show "Bewitched" where one of the main characters is named Uncle Arthur Foster.
Overall, the name Foster carries with it a strong sense of nurturing and care, making it an appealing choice for parents looking for a unique and meaningful name for their child. Its historic roots also give it a certain timelessness and sophistication that can appeal to those seeking a classic name with a modern twist.
The name Foster has been a consistent presence in the United States over the past century, with fluctuations in its popularity from year to year. In the early years of record-keeping, the name was given to just five babies in both 1914 and 1923. The number of births remained relatively low until the late 1990s, when it began to show signs of increasing popularity.
From 1997 onwards, the annual births of children named Foster consistently increased, reaching double digits by the year 2006. This trend continued into the new millennium, with peaks in 2013 at nine births and again in 2020 at an impressive twenty-one births. The most recent data from 2022 shows that this popularity has been maintained, with twenty-five births recorded.
Over the entire period of record-keeping, a total of 251 children were named Foster in the United States. This steady growth in popularity indicates that the name Foster is well-established and continues to be chosen by parents for their newborns.