Riggins is an uncommon but distinctive given name of Irish origin. It is derived from the Irish surname "Ó Righinn," which means "descendant of Rigin." Rigin was a personal name in early Ireland, and it is believed to have been derived from the Old Celtic word "rix," meaning "king" or "chieftain."
The name Riggins first appeared as a given name in the United States during the mid-20th century. It has since gained some popularity as a unique alternative to more traditional names like Riggs and Regan. However, it remains relatively rare, with only a small number of people bearing this name worldwide.
In literature and popular culture, one notable character named Riggins is Coach Eric Taylor from the hit television series "Friday Night Lights." Played by actor Kyle Chandler, Coach Taylor is the head coach of the Dillon High School football team in Texas. His character's name has likely contributed to the increased visibility of the name Riggins in recent years.
Overall, Riggins is a compelling and unusual given name with a rich Irish heritage and a fascinating historical background. Its unique sound and meaning make it an attractive choice for parents seeking a distinctive name for their child.
The name Riggins has seen a significant increase in popularity over the past decade and a half in the United States. In 2007, there were only 6 recorded births with the name Riggins, but by 2023, that number had risen to an impressive 126 births. This represents a nearly twentyfold increase in just sixteen years.
From 2008 to 2022, the annual birth count for the name Riggins fluctuated between 5 and 90, showing steady growth over time. However, it's worth noting that there was a significant spike in 2021 with 90 births, which is more than double the number of births recorded in any other year since 2007.
In total, from 2007 to 2023, there have been 791 recorded births with the name Riggins in the United States. This shows that while it may not be one of the most popular names, it is certainly a name that has gained traction and continues to be chosen by parents for their children.