Webb is a surname of English origin that has been historically associated with various occupations and locations throughout the United Kingdom. The name itself derives from Old English words such as 'webbe' meaning 'weaver', or 'webba' referring to someone who lived near a riverbank.
The most common theory regarding the origins of Webb suggests that it was an occupational surname given to those who were involved in weaving cloth or textiles by hand. In medieval times, this would have been one of the most important industries in many communities, and thus such occupations often gave rise to surnames among families involved in them.
Another possible derivation for Webb could be from the Old English word 'webba', which denoted someone who lived near a riverbank or wetland area. This usage could also provide insight into the early history of this surname, as some records indicate that it was present in various parts of England even before the Norman Conquest of 1066.
Over time, Webb has become well-established across different regions within Britain and beyond. Today, it remains a popular choice for parents naming their children after classic English surnames like these offer timeless appeal while also paying homage to family history or heritage.
In conclusion, Webb is an interesting surname with roots tracing back centuries in England. Its origins provide insight into the daily life and occupations of our ancestors during medieval times, whether they were skilled weavers contributing to local commerce or inhabitants of waterfront communities along rivers and wetlands.
Based on the statistical data provided, the name Webb has seen a varied pattern of usage over time in the United States. From 1880 to 2023, there have been a total of 1625 births with the first name Webb.
The peak years for the name Webb were between 1916 and 1917, during which there were 25 and 26 births respectively. This indicates that Webb was quite popular as a baby name during this time period.
However, from the mid-1930s onwards, the usage of the name Webb began to decline significantly. Between 1940 and 1980, there were fewer than 10 births per year with the name Webb on average. The lowest point was reached in 1964, with only 6 births.
Since the late 1980s, there has been a resurgence in popularity for the name Webb, with more consistent usage each year. In recent years (2010-2023), the number of births with the name Webb has ranged from a low of 15 to a high of 26 per year.
Overall, while the name Webb may not have been consistently popular throughout history, it has seen periods of significant usage and continues to be chosen as a baby name today.