The name Myrtis is of Greek origin and has a significant historical background. It was the name of an ancient Greek nymph who was transformed into a myrtle tree by the gods to protect her from the unwanted attentions of a satyr named Pan. The myrtle tree, also known as Myrtus communis, is still revered today for its fragrant leaves and white flowers.
The name Myrtis means "perfume" or "myrtle" in Greek, reflecting the sweet scent of the myrtle tree's leaves and flowers. In ancient times, myrtle was used to make perfume and was also a symbol of love, peace, and prosperity. It was often worn as a wreath by brides and grooms during wedding ceremonies.
Throughout history, many notable figures have borne the name Myrtis. One of the most famous is Saint Myrtis, a Christian martyr from the 4th century who was beheaded for her faith. Today, Myrtis is still used as a given name in some parts of Greece and Cyprus, although it is not as popular as it once was.
In literature, the name Myrtis has been used by several authors to evoke a sense of beauty, grace, or fragility. For example, it appears in works by John Keats and Lord Byron. Overall, the name Myrtis carries with it a rich history and a powerful symbolism that continues to resonate today.
The statistics provided show the annual number of births with the name Myrtis in the United States from 1882 to 1987. The data reveals a pattern of fluctuations over time, with periods of increase and decrease in the popularity of this name.
In the late 19th century, between 1882 and 1893, there were fewer than 25 births each year with the name Myrtis. However, beginning in 1894, we see a steady increase in the number of annual births with this name, reaching over 100 births per year by 1912.
The peak popularity of the name Myrtis occurred between 1912 and 1921, during which time more than 100 births were recorded each year. The highest number of births in any single year was in 1921, with a total of 216 newborns named Myrtis.
After the early 1920s, there is a noticeable decrease in the popularity of this name. By the mid-1930s, fewer than 100 births per year were recorded with the name Myrtis, and this trend continues throughout the remainder of the data provided.
In fact, from 1968 onwards, fewer than 20 births per year are reported with the name Myrtis. The most recent years for which data is available (1984 and 1987) show a total of only five births each year with this name.
Overall, the statistics demonstrate that while the name Myrtis was once quite popular in the United States, its popularity has significantly decreased over time. Despite this decline, it is still possible to find newborns named Myrtis in recent years, indicating that some parents continue to choose this name for their children.