Levy is a masculine given name of Hebrew origin. It is derived from the Hebrew word "lev," which means "heart." In Jewish tradition, the heart is considered to be the seat of emotion and intellect. Therefore, the name Levy signifies someone who is compassionate, wise, and full of understanding.
The name Levy has a rich history that dates back thousands of years. It was borne by several important figures in Jewish history, including Levy the son of Jacob, who was one of the twelve tribes of Israel according to the Bible. In medieval Europe, the name Levy was often given to Jews who worked as money lenders or merchants, as it was believed that they possessed a keen intellect and financial acumen.
Today, Levy is still a popular given name for boys in many countries around the world. It is often associated with intelligence, creativity, and kindness, reflecting its original Hebrew meaning. Some notable individuals with the name Levy include French philosopher Maurice Levy, American actor Levy Tran, and Israeli singer-songwriter Lavy Shmilovich.
The name Levy has been a recurring choice for parents in the United States over the past century and a half, with a total of 3,730 babies given this name since 1880.
In the late 19th century, the name Levy experienced moderate popularity, with an average of around 8 births per year between 1880 and 1899. The highest point during this period was in 1888 and 1890, with 13 births each year.
The early 20th century saw a steady increase in the number of babies named Levy. Between 1900 and 1929, the annual birth count fluctuated between 9 and 44, with several peaks around the years 1915, 1922, and 1925.
From the 1930s to the 1960s, the popularity of the name Levy remained relatively stable, with an average of about 20 births per year. The highest point during this period was in 1943, with 34 births.
In the late 1960s and early 1970s, there was a slight decline in the number of babies named Levy, but the name regained popularity in the mid-1970s. Between 1975 and 2023, the annual birth count ranged from 12 to 91, with several peaks around the years 1988, 2006, 2011, 2014, and most notably in recent years – 2020 and 2021, with 91 births each year.
In conclusion, while Levy has not always been one of the most popular names in the United States, it has maintained a steady presence over time. Its popularity has fluctuated but has seen several peaks in different decades, indicating that the name continues to be a beloved choice for parents across generations.