Minard is a rare and unique given name of French origin. Its meaning and history are deeply rooted in the rich cultural heritage of France.
The name Minard is derived from the Old French word "minerval," which refers to someone who comes from the village of Menou, located in the department of Yonne in Burgundy, France. The suffix "-ard" is a common patronymic ending in French surnames, indicating that the name was originally a surname given to people who originated from or lived in Menou.
The village of Menou is named after the Roman goddess Minerva, the goddess of wisdom and strategic warfare. Therefore, it can be inferred that the name Minard may have some association with intelligence, strategy, and wisdom.
While Minard is not a well-documented name throughout history, there are some notable figures who bear this unique name. One such example is Jean-Antoine Minard (1723-1800), a French engraver and printmaker of the 18th century. He was known for his mastery of line engraving and his work was highly regarded during his time.
In contemporary times, Minard remains an uncommon given name but continues to be used in France and among French-speaking communities around the world. It is often chosen by parents who wish to give their child a distinctive and meaningful name with deep roots in French history and culture. The unique sound of the name Minard also contributes to its appeal for those seeking a name that stands out from the crowd.
In conclusion, Minard is a rare and distinctive given name of French origin, derived from the village of Menou and associated with intelligence and wisdom. With a rich cultural heritage and notable historical figures bearing the name, Minard remains an attractive choice for parents seeking a unique and meaningful name for their child.
The name Minard has seen a varied but modest level of popularity over the past century in the United States. Between 1913 and 2019, there have been a total of 79 births recorded with this name.
The highest peak in popularity occurred during the years 1916 to 1919, when the name was given to between 9 and 10 babies each year. This period marked the most prolific time for the name Minard, with a combined total of 34 births across these four years.
However, the frequency of this name has significantly decreased since then. From 1921 onwards, there were no more than 7 births recorded per year until it reached its most recent peak in 2019, with 5 births that year. This steady decline over the decades indicates a decrease in the popularity of the name Minard.
Despite this, it is important to note that while Minard may not be among the most common names today, each of the 79 individuals sharing this name have contributed to its unique legacy in American history.