Peregrine is a rare and unique given name of Latin origin. It is derived from the word "peregrinus," which means "foreign" or "pilgrim." The name has been used throughout history, but it is not particularly popular in any one region or time period.
The earliest known use of the name Peregrine was in ancient Rome, where it was given to individuals who were born abroad and had come to Rome as foreigners. Over time, the name came to be associated with the concept of travel and exploration, and it was often given to people who were adventurous or had a wandering spirit.
In medieval Europe, Peregrine became more commonly used as a given name. It was particularly popular among the nobility, and several members of European royal families bore this name. For example, Peregrine FitzTurse was a 12th-century lord of Cockermouth in Cumbria, England, while Peregrine de Montfort was a knight who fought alongside King Richard I during the Third Crusade.
Throughout history, people with the name Peregrine have often been associated with travel and exploration. The most famous example is perhaps Sir Peregrine Fazione, an English explorer of the 16th century who traveled extensively in Africa and Asia. Today, the name Peregrine continues to be associated with adventure and wanderlust.
Despite its historical significance, Peregrine remains a relatively uncommon given name today. According to data from the Social Security Administration, only around 20 boys per year are named Peregrine in the United States. However, for those who choose this unique and meaningful name, it is a beautiful way to honor the spirit of exploration and adventure that has been associated with it throughout history.
The name Peregrine has seen a significant increase in popularity over the past two decades in the United States. According to statistics, there were only five births with the name Peregrine in 1998 and again in 2002. However, this number began to rise gradually, reaching eight births in 2007 and nine in 2009.
A significant jump occurred in 2010, with twelve babies named Peregrine born that year. This trend continued, with the name reaching its peak popularity so far in 2023, with twenty-eight recorded births.
Overall, since 1998, there have been a total of two hundred and fifty births for the name Peregrine in the United States. This steady increase indicates that the name Peregrine is becoming more widely accepted and chosen by parents for their children.