Meaning, origin, history
Paige is a feminine given name of English origin. It is derived from the Middle English word "page," which originally referred to a young servant or attendant in a noble household. Over time, the term evolved to specifically refer to a boy who was training to become a knight.
Despite its original masculine connotation, Paige has been used as a feminine given name for centuries. The earliest known usage of Paige as a girl's name dates back to the 13th century in England. In the late Middle Ages and early modern period, it was not uncommon for girls to be named after occupations or titles, such as Joan (for a tailor) or Margaret (for a pearl). Therefore, naming a girl Paige would have been seen as appropriate during this time.
The name Paige gained popularity in the United States during the mid-20th century. According to data from the Social Security Administration, it first appeared in the top 1000 names for girls in the U.S. in 1947 and reached its peak popularity in the late 1980s and early 1990s, when it was consistently ranked among the top 250 names for girls.
Today, Paige continues to be a popular choice for parents naming their daughters. Its simple and timeless sound makes it appealing to many, while its unique spelling sets it apart from other names with similar pronunciations such as Paige or Peggy.
In terms of meaning, there is no specific definition associated with the name Paige. However, its historical connection to the concept of servitude or attendance may suggest qualities such as loyalty, devotion, or humility. Ultimately, however, the meaning of a name is largely determined by individual interpretation and association.
In numbers
Popularity of the name Paige since 1880
Total births
1,335
Total since 1880
Peak year
1992
31 births
in 2017
5
Recent births (5 years)
5-year trend
-100%
↘
vs previous 5 years