The name Canon is of English origin and has a fascinating history behind it. It is derived from the Latin word 'canon,' which means 'a rule' or 'measuring stick.' In fact, the term 'canon' itself comes from the Greek word 'κανών,' which was used to denote a straight rod or reed used for measuring.
The name Canon has been associated with several notable figures throughout history. One of the most famous is Saint Thomas Becket, who was known as "Thomas à Beckett" in his native French-speaking region. After his assassination inside Canterbury Cathedral in 1170, he became venerated as a saint and martyr by the Catholic Church. His name, Thomas à Beckett or simply Thomas Becket, has been linked to the city of Canterbury and its iconic cathedral ever since.
Another significant figure connected with the name Canon is Hiram Cannon, an American pioneer who played a crucial role in settling Utah during the late 19th century. Born in England but raised in America, Cannon became known for his leadership skills and contributed greatly to the establishment of Mormon communities in what was then considered the American West.
In literature, the name Canon appears in works by Charles Dickens. In "The Pickwick Papers," one of Dickens' earliest novels, there is a character named Sam Weller who has an uncle named Gabriel Vardon Davy Cannon. This mention serves as an early example of how the name has been used in popular culture throughout history.
Today, Canon is still widely recognized as a unique and distinctive given name for males. It has also become increasingly popular as a surname over time. While its origins may not be immediately apparent to everyone who hears it, there's no denying that this moniker carries with it a rich historical legacy dating back centuries.
The name Canon has been steadily gaining popularity in the United States over the past few decades, with a significant increase in its usage since the early 2000s.
According to statistics, there were only 8 births of the name Canon in 1971. However, by 1995, this number had more than doubled to 23 births. The years 1996 and 1997 saw even greater increases, with 25 and 41 births respectively.
The early 2000s marked a significant turning point for the name Canon. In 2002, there were 61 births, and this number continued to rise steadily over the next few years. By 2008, there were 109 births of the name Canon in the United States.
The popularity of the name Canon peaked in recent years, with 127 births recorded in 2014. Since then, the popularity has remained relatively high, with over 100 births each year until 2023.
Overall, from 1971 to 2023, there have been a total of 2602 births of the name Canon in the United States. This data reflects the growing trend of parents choosing unique and meaningful names for their children, with Canon being one such popular choice.