Laban is a unique and uncommon masculine given name of Hebrew origin. Its meaning is derived from the Hebrew word "lavan," which means "white." The name Laban appears in the Old Testament of the Bible, specifically in the Book of Genesis. He was the father of Leah and Zilpah, who were both wives of Jacob, one of the patriarchs of ancient Israel.
The name Laban has been used sparingly throughout history, but it has gained some popularity in recent years, particularly in Scandinavia and among those with an interest in biblical names. Despite its rarity, Laban carries a rich historical and cultural significance that makes it a distinctive choice for a child's name.
In terms of its meaning, "white" can represent purity, innocence, and simplicity, making Laban a suitable name for those seeking a unique yet meaningful moniker. Its biblical connection also lends an air of spirituality and tradition to the name.
Overall, Laban is a rare and distinctive given name with a rich history and meaningful origin. While it may not be as widely recognized as some other names, its uniqueness and significance make it a worthy choice for parents looking for something special for their child.
Based on the statistics provided, the name Laban has seen a varied pattern of usage in the United States over the past century and a half. The name's popularity peaked in the early to mid-20th century, with notable spikes occurring between 1932 (with 15 births) and 1977 (with 13 births). However, since then, its usage has significantly decreased, with fewer than 10 births per year recorded from 1978 onwards. Despite this decline in popularity, the name Laban continues to be used occasionally, as evidenced by the annual birth counts provided up until 2021.
It is interesting to note that while the overall trend shows a decrease in the usage of the name Laban over time, there have been occasional spikes in its popularity. For instance, between 2006 and 2015, there were several years where more than 9 births with the name Laban were recorded. This could suggest that the name has maintained some level of relevance or appeal to parents within specific communities or generations.
In conclusion, while the name Laban may not be as popular today as it once was, its usage over time reflects a unique and varied pattern of popularity in the United States. Parents who choose this name for their child may be drawn to its distinctiveness and rich history of usage across different periods and communities.