Lloyd is a name of Welsh origin, meaning "gray" or "grey." It was traditionally given to boys born with gray hair or eyes. The name has been in use for centuries and was popular among the Welsh nobility during the Middle Ages.
The earliest known record of the name Lloyd is from Wales in the 13th century, where it was used as a personal name. Over time, the name spread beyond Wales and became more widely used throughout Britain and Ireland.
In literature, one of the most notable figures named Lloyd is the character Dr. Lloyd in Charles Dickens' novel "David Copperfield." The name has also been used by several prominent historical figures, including Sir Thomas Lloyd, who served as Lord Mayor of London in the 17th century.
Today, Lloyd remains a popular boys' name in English-speaking countries around the world. It is often given to babies born with gray hair or eyes, but can be chosen simply for its unique sound and meaning. The name has a strong and powerful image, suggesting someone who is reliable, steady, and steadfast. Overall, Lloyd is a name with a rich history and a timeless appeal.
The statistics provided show the annual number of births with the name Lloyd in the United States from 1903 to 1987. Over this period of nearly nine decades, there were a total of 998 babies named Lloyd.
The name's popularity fluctuated significantly over time. The highest peak occurred in 1925 and 1930, with 31 births each year. This suggests that during these years, the name Lloyd was particularly favored by parents.
However, it is important to note that there were some years when the name was quite rare. For instance, between 1945 and 1952, there were only seven births each year on average. The lowest point was in 1960, with just five babies named Lloyd.
Despite these fluctuations, the name Lloyd has maintained a consistent presence in the United States over the course of a century. It is interesting to observe how trends in naming have evolved during this time period.