Charleston is an uncommon given name of American origin that has been used for both boys and girls. It gained popularity in the early to mid-20th century, likely due to its association with the city of Charleston, South Carolina.
The name Charleston does not have a specific meaning or derivation from other languages like many traditional names do. Instead, it is purely a place name taken directly from the historic city in South Carolina. Founded by English colonists in 1670, Charleston played a significant role during the American Revolution and later became a major hub for trade and culture throughout the antebellum era.
While not many people are named Charleston today, those who bear this unique moniker often do so because of family ties to the South Carolina city or as a nod to its rich history. In some cases, parents may choose the name simply for its distinctive sound and style. Regardless of the reason behind its selection, the name Charleston is sure to inspire curiosity and conversation about its unique origins.
The name Charleston has been given to a total of 1,210 babies in the United States since 1997. The number of births each year has varied significantly, with a low of 7 births in 1997 and a high of 41 births in 2014. There was also a significant spike in popularity between 2015 and 2016, with 255 births recorded in 2015 and 156 in 2016.
It's interesting to note that the name Charleston experienced several periods of increased popularity over the years. For example, there was a significant increase from 9 births in 1998 to 19 births in 2006, and again from 19 births in 2009 to 23 births in 2010. The name also saw a brief spike in popularity between 2011 and 2012, with 20 births recorded in 2011 and 26 in 2012.
However, despite these periods of increased popularity, the overall trend for the name Charleston has been one of declining usage. Since reaching a peak of 41 births in 2014, the number of babies named Charleston has decreased each year, with only 45 births recorded in 2023. This decline could be due to a variety of factors, such as shifting trends in baby naming or changes in demographics.
Regardless of its popularity, the name Charleston remains an option for parents looking for a unique and distinctive name for their child. It's important to remember that names are just one aspect of a person's identity, and that what truly matters is the love and care we give our children throughout their lives.