Verna is a unique and uncommon female given name of Latin origin. It means "fresh" or "springlike," which suggests a sense of renewal, growth, and vitality. The name Verna is derived from the Latin word "vernus," which refers to the season of spring.
The name Verna has a rich history that dates back to ancient Rome. In Roman mythology, Verna was the goddess of spring. She was associated with the blooming flowers, green grass, and warm weather that accompanied the arrival of spring. As a result, the name Verna became popular among Romans during the Classical period.
Over time, the name Verna spread beyond the borders of ancient Rome and gained popularity in other parts of Europe. In some cultures, it was used as a given name for girls, while in others, it was used as a surname. Today, Verna is still considered an unusual but beautiful name that carries with it a sense of freshness and renewal.
Despite its rarity, the name Verna has been carried by several notable individuals throughout history. For example, Verna Bloom is an American actress known for her role in the film "American Graffiti," while Verna Hills was a Canadian suffragette who fought for women's right to vote in the early 20th century.
In conclusion, Verna is a charming and distinctive female given name with a rich history dating back to ancient Rome. Its meaning of freshness and renewal makes it an appealing choice for parents looking for a unique but meaningful name for their daughter. Although it may be less commonly heard than some other names, those who bear the name Verna are sure to stand out in a crowd thanks to its beautiful origin story and unique sound.
Verna is a unique and historically significant name in the United States. The data provided shows the annual number of births with the name Verna from 1880 to 2023.
The graph illustrates a trend where Verna was quite popular during the late 19th century, peaking between 1885 (with 108 births) and 1916 (with 1713 births). This can be attributed to the name's popularity among the older generations at that time. However, it is important to note that popularity fluctuates over time.
In the early 20th century, Verna's popularity began to decline but remained consistent until the late 1960s. During this period, between 187 and 359 births were recorded annually. After the 1970s, Verna became quite rare, with fewer than 100 births per year from 1972 onwards.
Despite its decline in popularity over time, Verna has remained a relevant name choice for parents in the United States. In recent years, there have been between 16 and 38 births annually. This demonstrates that even when a name is not particularly popular, it still contributes to the rich tapestry of naming traditions in any given country.
Overall, this statistical data provides valuable insights into the changing trends of baby naming in America over the past century and a half. It highlights how historical events, cultural shifts, and personal preferences can shape the popularity of names like Verna over time.