Selby is an English given name with a rich history and interesting origins. It is derived from the Old Norse personal name Sælbjórn, which was composed of the elements "sæl" meaning "sea" or "victory," and "bjorn" meaning "bear." Therefore, Selby could be translated as "victory-bringer" or "victorious bear."
The name Selby is believed to have been brought to England by Viking settlers during the late 8th and early 9th centuries. It was particularly common in the Northumbria region of northern England, which had a significant Scandinavian population at that time.
Over the centuries, Selby has evolved and taken on various forms. In some cases, it became associated with places rather than people, such as the town of Selby in North Yorkshire, England. The name can also be found in other parts of the world, including Australia and New Zealand, where it was brought by English settlers.
Today, Selby is still considered a unique and historic given name that carries the spirit of its Norse origins. It has been used by families for generations and continues to be chosen by parents who appreciate its rich history and strong meaning. While it may not be as popular as some other names, those who bear the name Selby can take pride in its ancient heritage and distinctive character.
The name Selby has seen a varied pattern of usage over the years in the United States. In the early to mid-20th century, it was relatively uncommon, with fewer than 10 births recorded annually from 1930 to 1957.
However, starting from the late 1980s, there was a notable increase in the number of babies named Selby. The year 1997 marked a significant peak with 15 births, which was more than double the previous year's count.
The trend continued into the early 2000s, with consistent numbers ranging from 9 to 13 births per year between 2002 and 2009. After a brief decline, it picked up again in recent years, with 7 or more births each year from 2012 to 2022.
In total, there have been 287 babies named Selby born in the United States since 1930, showing that while it may not be one of the most common names, it has maintained a steady presence over time.