Sewall is an uncommon but unique given name of English origin. It is derived from the Old English word "seawulf", which means "sea wolf". This name has a strong and powerful connotation, reflecting its marine and animal roots.
The use of the name Sewall can be traced back to medieval England, where it was sometimes used as a personal name. However, it was not widely popular during this time period. It is more commonly associated with families from the New World, particularly in the United States.
One notable figure with the name Sewall was Sir William Sewall (1596-1670), who was an early settler of Massachusetts and served as a judge on the Court of Assistants. His grandson, Samuel Sewall (1652-1730), was also a prominent figure in colonial America. He was a judge on the Superior Court of Judicature and is known for his diary, which provides valuable insights into life in 18th-century Boston.
Despite its historical significance, Sewall remains relatively rare today. According to data from the Social Security Administration, only nine boys were named Sewall in the United States in 2020. Nevertheless, it continues to be a distinctive and interesting choice for parents looking for an uncommon name with a rich history.
Based on the statistics provided, the name Sewall experienced a slight increase in popularity between 1915 and 1919 in the United States. In 1915, there were 5 births with the first name Sewall, while in 1919, that number had grown to 6 births. Over this four-year period, a total of 11 children were given the name Sewall at birth in the United States.