Lestat is a unique and distinctive given name of French origin. The name Lestat comes from the Breton word "lest" which means "sail". Therefore, the meaning associated with this name is typically related to seafaring or nautical themes.
The history of the name Lestat can be traced back to medieval France where it was used as a surname. It was initially given to people who lived near the coast or were engaged in maritime activities such as sailors and fishermen. Over time, the name began to appear more frequently as a given name rather than just a surname.
One notable figure associated with the name Lestat is the character created by Anne Rice in her Vampire Chronicles series of novels. The fictional vampire Lestat became famous for his charismatic personality and has since become synonymous with the name itself. However, it should be noted that the popularity of this character did not significantly impact the overall usage of the name Lestat.
Today, Lestat remains a relatively rare given name, but its unique origins and history make it an appealing choice for parents looking for something different for their child. While it may still be more commonly associated with its Breton roots or literary fame, those who bear this name can take pride in its rich history and distinctive meaning.
Statistics on the Given Name Lestat:
The given name Lestat has seen varying trends in popularity over the years in the United States. Between 1995 and 2023, there were a total of 505 births registered with this name.
In 1995, the name was given to 5 newborns, and it saw an increase in popularity the following year with 7 births recorded in 1996. This upward trend continued into 1997 with 10 babies named Lestat that year. However, between 2000 and 2002, the number of newborns given this name fluctuated slightly, ranging from 5 to 11 births per year.
The peak in popularity for the name Lestat occurred between 2003 and 2008. During these years, there were consistently high numbers of babies named Lestat, with a total of 196 births recorded over this six-year period. The highest single year was 2004 and 2005, each with 35 births.
After the peak, the popularity of the name Lestat began to decline. Between 2009 and 2013, there were between 13 and 25 births per year. This downward trend continued into the late 2010s and early 2020s, with fewer than 20 babies named Lestat each year from 2016 onwards.
Despite this decline in popularity, the name Lestat continues to be chosen for newborns in the United States. In recent years, there have been between 8 and 14 births recorded annually with this name. As of 2023, the most recent data available shows that there were 8 babies named Lestat born that year.
Overall, while the popularity of the name Lestat has varied over time, it remains a choice for parents in the United States looking for a unique and distinctive given name for their children.