July is a unique and captivating given name of Latin origin that means "of July." It is derived from the Roman month Julius, which was named after Gaius Julius Caesar, the famous Roman general and statesman who introduced the Julian calendar in 46 BC.
The name July is often associated with summer and warmth, as it coincides with the seventh month of the year. However, unlike many other month-name derivatives like May or June, July has not been widely used as a given name until recent years. It was popularized by American author John Green in his novel "Looking for Alaska," where one of the main characters is named Alaska Young, also known as "July."
In some cultures, especially in the United States and Europe, July is considered an unconventional but charming choice for a girl's name. It may be more commonly used as a middle name or even as a nickname for someone born in that month. Nevertheless, its unique origin and meaning make it an attractive option for parents looking for something distinctive.
In terms of history, there are no notable historical figures named July. However, its association with the month and season has made it appealing to those who wish to honor the summer or celebrate their love for the outdoors. Ultimately, July is a name that embodies warmth, uniqueness, and a touch of adventurous spirit.
The name July has seen a varying degree of popularity over the years in the United States, as evidenced by the birth statistics provided.
From 1973 to 2023, there have been a total of 251 babies named July born in the U.S. The name's peak popularity seems to be within the past decade or so. In fact, the years with the highest number of births with the name July were between 2019 and 2022, with 21 births in 2019, 13 births in both 2020 and 2021, and 14 births in 2022.
However, it's important to note that the name July has not always been popular. In some years, such as 1973, 1989, and 1998-2005, there were only 5 births each year. But despite these fluctuations in popularity, it seems that the name July has maintained a consistent presence throughout recent decades.
Overall, while the name July may not be one of the most popular choices for baby names, it does appear to have a steady and growing appeal among parents in the United States.