Harlow is a unique and captivating given name of English origin. It is derived from the Old English word 'here', which means 'army' or 'warrior', and the word 'loewe', which means 'dear'. Therefore, Harlow can be interpreted to mean 'noble warrior' or 'dearest warrior'.
The name Harlow gained prominence in the 20th century, likely due to its use by famous figures such as actress Jean Harlow, who was known for her leading roles in Hollywood during the Golden Age of cinema. However, it is important to note that Harlow's popularity predates the actress and has been used as a given name since the Middle Ages.
In literature, Harlow appears in works such as "The Harlot by the Fire" by ThomasNashe, published in 1592. The name also pops up in various other books, plays, and films throughout history, further cementing its place in popular culture.
Today, Harlow is still a relatively rare given name, but it continues to be chosen by parents who appreciate its unique sound and historical significance. It is often used for boys but can also make a striking choice for girls due to its unisex nature. Overall, Harlow is a distinctive and meaningful name with a rich history that spans centuries of English culture.
The name Harlow has seen a significant increase in popularity over the past two decades in the United States. In 2002, there were only 6 babies named Harlow, but by 2023, that number had risen to 1266, indicating a growth of approximately 21,000% over this period.
The year 2021 marked a record-breaking high for the name Harlow with 1275 births, nearly doubling the previous peak in 2023. This trend suggests that Harlow is becoming increasingly favored as a baby girl's name among parents in the United States.
However, it is essential to note that while Harlow has gained popularity, it remains relatively rare compared to other popular girls' names. In 2021, for instance, the top three most popular girls' names in the U.S., Olivia, Emma, and Ava, had a combined total of over 68,000 births.
Despite this, Harlow's steady rise in popularity demonstrates that it has captured the hearts of many parents seeking unique yet recognizable names for their daughters. As we look towards future years, it will be interesting to see whether Harlow continues its upward trend or if its popularity peaks and plateaus.