Altair is a unique and captivating name of Arabic origin. It is derived from the word "al-ta'ir," which translates to "the flying one." This name has been popularized by various cultural influences, notably in literature and astronomy.
In literature, Altair is most famously associated with the novel "The Count of Monte Cristo" by Alexandre Dumas. In this story, Altair is the name of a slave who eventually becomes a respected and wealthy man, changing his name to Sinbad the Sailor. This character has contributed significantly to the popularity of the name Altair in Western cultures.
In astronomy, Altair is also notable as the brightest star in the constellation Aquila, which is Latin for "eagle." This star system is part of a group known as the Summer Triangle, visible from both hemispheres during the summer months. The name Altair has been adopted by this star due to its association with flight and swiftness, reflecting its position as one of the brighter stars in the night sky.
Throughout history, Altair has been used as a given name for individuals, particularly in Arabic-speaking countries. It has also gained popularity in other parts of the world due to its unique sound and cultural significance. Today, Altair is recognized as an uncommon yet distinctive name that carries a rich history and meaningful origin.
The name Altair has seen a varied trend of popularity over the past fifteen years in the United States, with the number of babies named Altair ranging from a low of five to a high of eighteen per year.
From 2008 to 2017, there were twelve years where more than ten babies were named Altair each year. The peak year was 2014, with eighteen newborns sharing this unique name. However, in the most recent years available (2019-2023), the popularity of Altair has dipped slightly, with only five to eight births recorded annually.
Overall, over the fifteen-year period from 2008 to 2023, a total of 160 babies have been named Altair in the United States. Despite some fluctuation in its popularity, this name remains relatively uncommon, potentially making it a distinctive choice for parents seeking something different for their child's name.