Maguire is a unique and distinctive given name of Irish origin. It is derived from the Irish surname Ó Mag Aonghusa, which is composed of the elements "Ó" meaning 'descendant', 'Mag' meaning 'plain or field', and 'Aonghus' which means 'one choice'. Therefore, Maguire translates to 'son of Magnus'. The name Magnus itself comes from the Latin word 'magnus' meaning 'great'.
The surname Maguire is believed to have originated in County Fermanagh, Ireland, where it was borne by a sept of the Cenél Eoghan, one of the major early Irish dynasties. Over time, the name spread beyond its origins and can now be found among families all around the world.
The given name Maguire, while still relatively rare, has gained some popularity in recent years, particularly in English-speaking countries like the United States, Canada, Australia, and the United Kingdom. It is often used as a middle name or given to children with the intention of giving them a unique and memorable moniker.
In terms of its meaning and history, Maguire carries a strong sense of heritage and family pride. As a descendant name, it suggests a connection to the past and a deep-rooted lineage. The association with 'greatness' further lends an air of strength and dignity to the name. However, it is important to note that names are personal choices and their meanings can evolve over time based on individual experiences and perceptions.
Overall, Maguire is a distinctive given name with a rich history and meaningful origin. It stands out as a unique choice for parents seeking a name that is both memorable and significant.
The name Maguire has seen a varied trend in popularity over the years in the United States. Between 1997 and 2023, there were a total of 577 babies born with the first name Maguire.
The peak year for the name was 2000, with 54 births. This was a significant increase from the previous year, 1999, which had only 27 births. However, the popularity of the name began to decline after this peak. In 2008, there were only 21 births, and this downward trend continued until 2014, with only 9 births recorded that year.
Despite the decrease in popularity, Maguire remains a relatively uncommon name. Between 2015 and 2023, there were between 5 to 12 births per year, indicating that while it's not a highly popular choice, some parents still opt for this unique name for their children.
In recent years, the number of births with the name Maguire has fluctuated slightly. After reaching a low of 5 births in 2021, the number increased to 9 in 2022 and then decreased again to 7 in 2023. This suggests that while the name may not be as popular as it once was, it is still being chosen by some families.
Overall, the statistics show that Maguire has had a somewhat inconsistent popularity over the past two-and-a-half decades in the United States. While it experienced a brief period of high popularity at the turn of the century, its usage has since declined and stabilized at a lower level. Nevertheless, the name remains an uncommon yet distinctive choice for parents seeking something unique for their child's first name.