Buster is a unisex given name of American origin, derived from the word 'bust', which means to break or destroy something forcefully. However, when used as a given name, Buster does not carry this negative connotation.
The name Buster gained popularity in the early 20th century due to its use by several notable figures. The most famous bearer of the name is American actor and comedian Buster Keaton (1895-1966), who was known for his slapstick comedy films. Keaton's real name was Joseph Frank Keaton, but he was given the nickname 'Buster' by actress and producer Fannie Ward, who thought it would be a good stage name. Keaton liked the name so much that he used it professionally throughout his career.
Another famous bearer of the name is American baseball player Buster Posey (born 1987), who played as catcher for the San Francisco Giants from 2009 to 2021. Posey's real name is Gerald Dempsey Posey III, but he was given the nickname 'Buster' by his mother when he was a baby.
The name Buster has also been used in popular culture beyond its famous bearers. It is the title of several films, songs, and books, including the 1989 film 'Buster', which tells the story of the Great Train Robbery of 1963 from the perspective of one of the robbers.
In recent years, Buster has seen a resurgence in popularity as a given name. While it is still more commonly used for boys, it has also been given to girls, particularly in English-speaking countries such as the United States and the United Kingdom. Despite its origins, the name Buster does not have any specific meanings or associations beyond its sound and its famous bearers. It is often chosen by parents simply because they like the way it sounds or because they are fans of one of the famous people who have borne the name.
In conclusion, Buster is a unique and memorable given name of American origin that has been popularized by several notable figures throughout history. While it does not have any specific meanings or associations beyond its sound, its use in popular culture has contributed to its enduring popularity as a given name.
The name Buster experienced a brief moment of popularity in the United States during its debut year, with a total of five births recorded in 1918. Despite this initial start, the name has not gained widespread use since then, remaining relatively uncommon throughout the years.