Tom is a popular and classic given name of English origin. It is a short form or nickname for the name Thomas, which means "twin" in Aramaic. The name Thomas itself has been widely used throughout history, with notable bearers including two of Jesus Christ's twelve apostles in the New Testament, Saint Thomas of Canterbury, and American presidents such as Thomas Jefferson.
The name Tom gained significant popularity during the 19th century, particularly in English-speaking countries like the United States and Britain. It has remained a popular choice for parents throughout the years, often favored for its simplicity, familiarity, and classic charm.
Throughout history, the name Tom has been associated with various notable individuals across different fields such as literature, sports, and entertainment. Some famous Toms include American author Tom Clancy, British actor Tom Hanks, and Australian cricket legend Sir Donald Bradman, whose nickname was "The Don."
Despite its roots in the past, the name Tom continues to be a popular choice today for parents seeking a timeless yet familiar name for their sons. Its short and catchy nature makes it an appealing option across various cultures and languages worldwide. Overall, Tom is a classic and enduring given name with a rich history and meaningful origin that has stood the test of time.
The name Tom has a rich history in the United States, with its popularity ebbing and flowing over the years. Between 1880 and 2023, there have been a total of 139,635 births registered as Tom across the country.
Looking at the annual statistics, we can see that the name Tom was quite popular in the early 20th century. The highest number of births recorded in a single year was in 1946, with 3,624 newborn Toms. This trend continued into the 1950s and 1960s, with the name remaining consistently popular.
However, as time went on, the popularity of the name Tom began to decline. By the 1970s, the number of births registered as Tom had dropped significantly, reaching a low of 423 in 1974. This trend continued into the 1980s and 1990s, with the number of newborn Toms hovering around the 200 mark each year.
In recent years, the name Tom has seen a slight resurgence in popularity. Between 2000 and 2023, there have been an average of 74 births registered as Tom per year, indicating that while it may not be as popular as it once was, the name still holds some appeal for parents in the United States.
Overall, these statistics show that while the popularity of the name Tom has fluctuated over time, it remains a classic choice for parents looking for a timeless and strong-sounding name for their sons.