The name Camille is of French origin and has a rich history dating back to the 18th century. It is derived from the Old French word 'camel', which means "freeholder" or "landowner". The name was initially used as a surname before evolving into a given name for females in the 1700s.
Camille became popularized through the works of several notable authors and artists. One significant contribution to its prominence is the French novel "Camille" written by Jacques-Henri Bernardin de Saint-Pierre in 1796. The story tells about a woman named Camille who embarks on a journey of self-discovery, ultimately sacrificing herself for love. This tragic tale captivated readers and helped popularize the name.
Another significant figure associated with the name is French composer Gabriel Fauré, whose composition "Camille Saint-Saëns" paid homage to his friend and fellow musician Camille Saint-Saëns. This musical tribute further solidified Camille's place in French culture and history.
Over time, Camille has evolved beyond its French roots and is now recognized as an international name. It gained particular popularity in English-speaking countries during the mid-20th century. Today, it continues to be a beloved choice for parents seeking a classic yet distinctive name for their daughters. Despite its historic origins, Camille remains timeless and elegant, reflecting the sophisticated charm of its French heritage while appealing to modern sensibilities.
The name Camille has been a popular choice for parents in the United States over the past century, with a significant increase in its popularity since the late 1960s.
In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the number of births with the name Camille varied widely from year to year. Between 1880 and 1937, there were fewer than 50 births per year on average. However, starting in 1937, the number of births with the name Camille began to rise significantly, reaching a peak of 285 births that year.
The popularity of the name Camille continued to grow throughout the mid-20th century. Between 1946 and 1969, there were an average of around 475 births per year with the name Camille. However, in 1969, the number of births with the name suddenly jumped to 784, marking the beginning of a significant increase in its popularity.
Throughout the 1970s and 1980s, the number of births with the name Camille continued to rise steadily. Between 1970 and 1989, there were an average of around 650 births per year with the name Camille. However, in 1990, the number of births with the name jumped significantly to 1170, marking another peak in its popularity.
Since then, the popularity of the name Camille has remained high, with over 1200 births per year on average between 1990 and 2023. The highest number of births with the name Camille in recent years was recorded in 2011, with a total of 1318 births.
Overall, the popularity of the name Camille has varied significantly over time in the United States. While it was relatively uncommon in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, it has since become one of the most popular names for girls, with thousands of babies named Camille each year.