Major is a unique and distinctive given name of English origin. It is derived from the military rank "major," which itself comes from the Latin word "maior," meaning "greater" or "larger." Therefore, the name Major literally translates to "the larger one."
The use of Major as a given name is believed to have started in the 19th century, with its popularity peaked in the United States during the early 20th century. It was often used as a middle name among families with military backgrounds or those who wished to honor their military heritage.
Major has been borne by several notable individuals throughout history. One of the most famous is Major Taylor, an American track cyclist who won the world championship in 1899 and set numerous records during his career. Another prominent figure is Major General James B. Garfield, a Union Army officer during the American Civil War and the father of U.S. President James A. Garfield.
Today, Major continues to be used as a given name, although it remains relatively uncommon compared to more traditional names like John or William. However, its unique military origins and historical significance make it an appealing choice for parents looking for a distinctive name for their child. Despite its martial roots, Major is not exclusively reserved for boys – it can also be used as a girl's name, with notable examples including actresses Major Dodge and Major Garrett.
In conclusion, Major is a rare and intriguing given name with English origins that translates to "the larger one." With historical figures such as Major Taylor and Major General James B. Garfield, this name carries a strong and proud heritage. Although it may not be as commonly used as other names, Major's unique military roots make it an appealing choice for parents seeking a distinctive name for their child.
Based on the provided statistics, the name Major has seen a significant increase in popularity over time in the United States. Between 1880 and 1931, the number of births with the name Major fluctuated between 28 and 150, with an average of around 75 births per year during this period.
However, starting from 1932, there was a noticeable decrease in the popularity of the name Major. Between 1932 and 1960, the number of births with the name Major ranged between 57 and 134, with an average of around 85 births per year during this period.
Interestingly, after reaching its lowest point in 1960 with only 71 births, the popularity of the name Major began to rise again. Between 1961 and 2023, the number of births with the name Major fluctuated between 46 and 576, with an average of around 286 births per year during this period.
The most significant increase in popularity occurred after the year 2000. Between 2001 and 2023, the number of births with the name Major ranged between 55 and 948, with an average of around 477 births per year during this period.
In conclusion, while the name Major has seen periods of decreased popularity, it has experienced a significant resurgence in recent years. As of 2023, Major is one of the more popular names for newborns in the United States, with over 500 births recorded that year alone.