Espen is a Norwegian masculine given name derived from the Old Norse word "Aspen", which means "spear". It is believed to have been introduced by settlers from Norway who brought it with them when they settled in Iceland during the Viking Age.
The name Espen has been popular among Norwegians for many centuries and is still a widely used given name today. In fact, according to Statistics Norway, Espen was one of the most common male names in Norway throughout much of the 20th century.
While the meaning behind the name Espen is quite literal, it's important to note that there are no specific historical figures associated with this name. However, given its long-standing popularity and connection to Viking history, many people associate Espen with strength, courage, and leadership.
Overall, Espen is a strong and distinctive Scandinavian name that has stood the test of time, remaining popular among Norwegian families for generations.
Based on the statistics provided, the name Espen has seen a consistent increase in popularity over time in the United States. Starting with only five births in 1995, the number of babies named Espen has steadily risen to reach its peak in recent years.
Between 2015 and 2021, the number of births with the name Espen ranged from a low of 23 in 2022 to a high of 37 in 2015. This indicates that while the name has gained some traction, it is still relatively rare compared to more popular names.
When looking at the total number of births over this period, we can see that Espen was given to a total of 656 babies born between 1995 and 2023. This represents a significant increase from the earliest years recorded, demonstrating that the name has gained some popularity over time.
Overall, while Espen may not be one of the most common names in the United States, its consistent presence over several decades suggests that it is still a name that parents choose for their children. As with any name, popularity can vary greatly depending on region and personal preference, but these statistics offer a general overview of Espen's usage as a baby name in the U.S.