Broadus is a rare and distinctive given name of American origin. It is derived from the Scottish surname Brodie, which is believed to have originated from an old personal name meaning "broad" or "wide," possibly referring to someone with a broad or wide build.
The name Broadus first gained prominence in the United States during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. It was often given as a tribute to prominent figures bearing the surname Brodie, such as American politician and newspaper editor John Palmer Brodie (1836-1917).
Despite its Scottish origins, Broadus has been predominantly used in the United States. Its unique sound and spelling make it an uncommon choice for a first name, but it is occasionally found among families with Scottish or Irish ancestry.
In literature, one notable bearer of the name is Broadus Mitchell (1856-1924), an American poet and literary critic who was known for his critical works on the works of Henry James. However, it is important to note that references to individuals named Broadus are rare due to the name's uncommon usage.
In conclusion, Broadus is a unique and distinctive given name of Scottish origin that has gained some prominence in the United States. Its meaning is derived from its association with the surname Brodie, which means "broad" or "wide." While it is not a common choice for a first name, it may appeal to those looking for an uncommon yet meaningful name with historical roots.
Based on the statistical data provided regarding the name Broadus in the United States from 1900 to 2013, it is evident that this name has had varied popularity over time. The earliest year recorded with more than five births was 1914, with a total of 18 babies named Broadus born that year. This number peaked in 1923 and 1924, with 32 births each year.
However, the popularity of the name started to decline steadily after reaching its peak. Between 1930 and 1959, the number of annual births with the name Broadus ranged between six and 16, showing a general decrease in popularity over time. This trend continued into the latter half of the century, with only five or fewer babies named Broadus born each year from 1960 onwards, except for occasional spikes in 1971 (11 births), 1980 and 1982 (both six births), and 1987 (seven births).
In total, over the span of 114 years, there were a combined 905 babies named Broadus born in the United States. While this name may not have been as popular in recent decades, it has certainly left its mark on American naming trends during the early to mid-20th century.