Ninon is a unique and charming feminine given name of French origin. Its roots can be traced back to the Occitan language, which was widely spoken in southern France and parts of Italy during medieval times. In this language, "nin" means "nine," and it's believed that Ninon originally referred to someone born on the ninth day of a month or perhaps someone who was the ninth child in their family.
Over time, Ninon evolved from being a name associated with birth order to become an independent given name used for girls. The most notable figure associated with this name is Ninon de l'Enclos (1620-1705), a French actress and courtesan who gained fame during the reign of Louis XIV. Known for her wit, intelligence, and beauty, she became a prominent figure in Parisian society, inspiring numerous plays, poems, and songs dedicated to her. It's possible that her popularity helped to popularize the name Ninon among the French nobility.
Today, Ninon remains a rare but captivating choice for a girl's name. It offers a unique blend of vintage charm and international appeal, as it can be found in various languages besides French, such as Italian (Ninona) and Spanish (Ninona). While its meaning has evolved over time from a numerical reference to an independent given name, Ninon continues to evoke images of elegance, sophistication, and a touch of mystery.
The statistics provided indicate that the name Ninon has had a relatively consistent presence in the United States over the past century, with a total of 21 births recorded since 1923.
Interestingly, the name appears to have experienced two periods of popularity. The first occurred during the 1950s, with five girls named Ninon born each in 1952 and 1955. This suggests that the name may have been particularly fashionable among parents during this decade.
The second period of popularity for the name Ninon came nearly two decades later, in the year 1970, when six girls were given this name. This spike in births could indicate a renewed interest in the name or perhaps a reflection of its enduring appeal over time.
Overall, while the name Ninon may not be one of the most common, it has nevertheless maintained a steady presence in the United States over the past century. With 21 recorded births, it is clear that there have been many families who have chosen to give their daughters this distinctive and unique name.