Abbott is an English surname and given name with a unique history and meaning. It originates from the Middle English word 'abot', which was used to refer to an abbot, or the head of an abbacy or monastery. This term comes from the Old French word 'abbé', derived from the Latin word 'abbas', meaning 'father'.
The name Abbott is believed to have been brought to England by the Normans during their invasion in 1066. It was often given as a surname to individuals who were born or lived near an abbey, or had some connection to the church. Over time, Abbott has also been used as a given name for boys.
In terms of its meaning and symbolism, Abbott does not have any specific traits or qualities associated with it. However, like many names derived from religious titles or positions, Abbott may evoke a sense of wisdom, leadership, and devotion to one's community.
Based on the provided statistics, the name Abbott has seen a significant increase in popularity over time in the United States. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the number of babies named Abbott ranged from 5 to 21 per year. However, starting around the mid-20th century, there was a notable decrease in the usage of this name, with fewer than 10 Abbott births recorded annually between 1946 and 1998.
Interestingly, since the late 1990s, there has been a resurgence in the popularity of the name Abbott. Between 1999 and 2023, the number of babies named Abbott each year ranged from 5 to 59, with several years seeing more than 40 Abbott births. This recent trend suggests that Abbott has become an increasingly popular choice for parents in the United States once again.
In total, based on the provided statistics, there have been 1,238 babies named Abbott born in the United States since 1880.