Crawford is a unique and distinctive male given name of Scottish origin. It is derived from the Scottish surname "Crawford," which was originally an occupational name for a cartwright or wagon maker. The name is believed to have originated in the county of Ayrshire, Scotland.
The meaning of Crawford is associated with the elements that make up the name. "Craw" is thought to come from the Gaelic word "creag," which means "rock." While "ford" comes from the Old English word "ford," meaning "shallow place where a river can be crossed on foot." Therefore, the name Crawford could be interpreted as meaning "ford by the rocky area."
The history of the name Crawford can be traced back to the medieval period in Scotland. It was originally a surname and one of the most numerous and widely spread surnames in Scotland. Over time, it has evolved into a given name, particularly in English-speaking countries.
Some notable individuals with the name Crawford include American actor Mark Crawford, Canadian politician Arthur Meighen Crawford, and Australian rules footballer Nathan Crawford. However, despite its unique sound and Scottish heritage, Crawford remains relatively rare as a given name compared to more popular names like John or Michael.
In conclusion, Crawford is an unusual and interesting male given name with Scottish origins. Its meaning is derived from the elements that make up the name, relating to rocks and fordable places. With a rich history and notable bearers, Crawford is a name that stands out among other given names while still maintaining its connection to its Scottish roots.
The name Crawford has been present in the United States for over a century, with its popularity fluctuating over time. Between 1880 and 2023, there have been a total of 4,588 births registered with the first name Crawford.
During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the number of babies named Crawford was relatively low but steady. The earliest record shows 8 births in 1880, reaching a peak of 84 births in 1917 before declining again. Throughout the 1920s and 1930s, there were consistently around 30-60 births each year.
After World War II, the popularity of the name Crawford began to decline significantly. Between 1945 and 1970, fewer than 20 babies were named Crawford each year on average. The lowest point was reached in 1972 with only 14 births.
However, since the late 1970s, there has been a resurgence of popularity for the name Crawford. In 1984, there were 21 births, marking the start of an upward trend that has continued to this day. The most recent data shows that in 2022, there were 63 babies named Crawford, indicating that this historic name is still being chosen by parents today.
Overall, while the popularity of the name Crawford has waxed and waned over time, it remains a enduring choice among American parents, with a total of over four thousand individuals sharing this distinctive name.