Forbes is an English surname and given name that has a rich history and interesting origins. It is derived from the Middle English word "forb", which means 'north'. The name was originally a habitational name for someone who lived in the north, particularly in areas such as Yorkshire or Scotland.
The Forbes family, who are of Scottish descent, can trace their lineage back to the 12th century. They were known as a powerful and influential clan, with many members holding important positions in society. The most famous member of the Forbes clan was Sir John Forbes, who fought alongside Robert the Bruce during the Wars of Scottish Independence.
The name Forbes has also been associated with success and wealth throughout history. Many prominent businessmen and entrepreneurs have borne this name, including Malcolm Forbes, the publisher of Forbes magazine, which is a well-known source of information on finance and business.
In literature, Forbes has been used as a character's name in several works, such as "Forbes of the Fiddle" by George MacDonald, and "The Forbes Case of Boston Mountains" by Harry Stephen Keeler. This demonstrates that the name has also played a significant role in cultural history.
Overall, Forbes is a strong and distinctive name with a long and illustrious history. Its origins may be rooted in geography, but its meanings have evolved over time to encompass ideas of power, influence, and success.
The name Forbes has seen a varied number of births over the years in the United States, with fluctuations from as low as 5 to as high as 12 births in a single year.
In the early 20th century, the name Forbes saw its highest birth numbers between 1913 and 1918, with an average of about 8 births per year during this period. The peak was reached in 1915 with 11 births.
After a decline in the late 1920s and early 1930s, with fewer than 6 births each year, there was a resurgence in the mid-1940s, with 8 births in 1944 and 10 births in 1945.
The name Forbes continued to be given to an average of about 6 babies per year throughout much of the latter half of the 20th century. However, there was another notable peak in the late 1970s, with 10 births recorded in 1978.
In recent years, the number of babies named Forbes has remained relatively stable, with an average of about 6 births per year between 2015 and 2023. The most recent data shows that there were 8 births in 2023.
Overall, over the past century, a total of 229 babies have been named Forbes in the United States. This unique name continues to be chosen by parents looking for something distinctive for their children.