Corydon is a unique and distinctive given name of Greek origin. It is derived from the Greek word "Koridon," which means "dappled" or "speckled." In Greek mythology, Corydon was a Sicilian shepherd who was loved by the nymph Arethusa. He was known for his beautiful voice and his ability to charm all who heard him sing.
The name Corydon has a rich history in literature as well. It appears in Virgil's Eclogues, a collection of pastoral poems written in the 1st century BCE. In one of these poems, Corydon sings about his love for a boy named Alexis, making Corydon one of the earliest known characters in Western literature to express same-sex desire.
Today, Corydon is still a rare but significant name, often chosen by parents who appreciate its unique sound and historic significance. It has been used as both a given name and a surname throughout history, with notable figures bearing the name including Corydon Hammond, an American psychologist, and Corydon Mendenhall, an early settler of Utah.
Overall, Corydon is a charming and distinctive name with deep roots in Greek mythology and literature. Its meaning adds to its appeal, as "dappled" or "speckled" can evoke images of beauty, complexity, and unique character.
The given statistics show the annual number of babies named Corydon born in the United States from 1916 to 2002. Over this period of nearly ninety years, there were a total of 190 births with the name Corydon.
During the earlier decades, specifically between 1916 and 1957, the number of annual births with the name Corydon fluctuated between five to seven babies per year. However, starting from the late 1960s onwards, there was a noticeable increase in the popularity of this name.
The years 1978, 1980, and 1985 saw the highest number of Corydon births, with nine, nine, and eight babies respectively being born each year. This peak can likely be attributed to the increased visibility and popularity of unique names during this period.
Conversely, there were certain periods when the name Corydon became quite uncommon. Between 1963 and 1974, for instance, only five babies named Corydon were born per year on average. This decrease in popularity might have been influenced by changing trends in naming practices or a general shift towards more traditional or modern names.
Overall, despite its fluctuations over time, the name Corydon has remained relatively unique throughout much of the 20th century and early 21st century in the United States.