Adlai is a unique and distinctive given name of American origin. It is derived from the Germanic name Adalwolf, which is composed of the elements "adal" meaning noble and "wulf" signifying wolf. Therefore, Adlai translates to "noble wolf."
The name Adlai has a rich history that dates back to medieval times in Germany. It was borne by several prominent figures throughout history, including Adalwolf I, who was the Duke of Alsace in the 9th century. However, it is important to note that the modern spelling and pronunciation of Adlai are more commonly associated with American culture.
In the United States, the name Adlai gained popularity during the mid-20th century due to its association with Adlai E. Stevenson II, a prominent politician who served as the Governor of Illinois from 1948 to 1953 and was the Democratic nominee for President in the 1956 election. Although he did not win the presidency, Stevenson's political career helped popularize the name Adlai among American parents.
Today, Adlai remains a uncommon but memorable given name. Its unique spelling and meaning set it apart from more traditional names, making it an appealing choice for parents looking for something distinctive for their child. Despite its origins in medieval Germany, Adlai has become firmly associated with American culture due to its prominent use by American politicians and families.
The name Adlai has been given to babies born in the United States for over a century, with fluctuations in its popularity throughout that time. Between 1891 and 2023, there have been a total of 595 births registered with the first name Adlai.
The name's peak popularity occurred in recent years, with 22 births recorded in 2022. This is the highest number of Adlai births recorded since at least 1891, suggesting that the name may be experiencing a resurgence in popularity among parents today.
However, the name's popularity has varied significantly over time. For example, there were no recorded births with the name Adlai between 1900 and 1920, and again between 1937 and 1952. In contrast, there was a notable increase in the number of Adlai births from 1952 to 1968, with the highest number during this period being 39 births recorded in 1952.
Since then, the popularity of the name has continued to fluctuate, but it has generally remained relatively uncommon. Between 1969 and 2021, there were fewer than 10 Adlai births per year on average. However, recent years have seen a significant increase in the number of babies named Adlai, with at least 9 births recorded each year between 2014 and 2023.
Despite its varying popularity over time, the name Adlai continues to be chosen by parents for their children born in the United States. With its unique sound and historical significance, it remains a distinctive choice for those looking for an uncommon but meaningful name for their baby boy.