Ross is a name of Scottish origin and it has several possible meanings depending on the source. According to some sources, Ross means "headland" or "promontory," while others suggest that it means "from Ross." The name Ross is derived from the Gaelic word "Ros," which refers to a promontory or headland.
The surname Ross is believed to have originated from several places in Scotland, including Ross-shire, a historic county in the Scottish Highlands. The most notable of these places is the town of Ross-on-Wye in Herefordshire, England, which was once known as "Ross" before the addition of "on-Wye."
The name Ross has been used throughout history by various notable figures. One of the earliest recorded instances of the name Ross is from the 13th century, when it was borne by a Scottish clan chief named Alexander Ross. The clan Ross was one of the most powerful and influential clans in the Scottish Highlands during the Middle Ages.
In modern times, the name Ross has been used by many notable individuals, including the American actor and filmmaker Ross Kemp, who is best known for his role as "Dizzy Gillespie" on the television series "The Bill." Other famous bearers of the name Ross include the Australian cricketer Ian Ross and the American musician Ross Robinson.
Overall, the name Ross has a rich history that dates back centuries. With its Scottish origins and varied meanings, it is a name with a strong sense of identity and heritage. Whether used as a given name or surname, Ross remains a popular choice among parents and individuals alike.
The name Ross has been a relatively uncommon choice for parents in the United States over the past century, with fluctuations in its popularity over time.
In the early 20th century, there were several years where only five or six babies were given the name Ross. The highest number of births recorded during this period was thirteen in 1919.
The name's popularity seemed to decline throughout much of the mid-20th century, with fewer than ten births recorded each year between 1957 and 1983.
However, there was a notable resurgence in the late 1980s and early 1990s. Between 1984 and 1990, there were eleven years where more than ten babies were named Ross. The highest number of births during this period was sixteen in 1986.
Since then, the name Ross has continued to be chosen with moderate frequency. There were six births recorded in both 2003 and 2004, eight in 2015, six in 2017, seven in 2021, and five in 2023.
In total, over the years from 1891 to 2023, there were 422 babies named Ross in the United States. While it may not be one of the most popular names, its consistent presence over time indicates that many families have chosen this name for their children throughout history.