Baylor is a unique and distinctive given name of American origin. It is derived from the surname Baylor, which has a notable history in the United States. The surname Baylor is believed to have originated from the Old French word "bailer," meaning "to deliver" or "to convey." However, there are different theories regarding its exact origins and meanings.
One theory suggests that the surname Baylor may be derived from the French personal name Baillol, which was a nickname given to someone who was cheerful or happy. Another theory proposes that it could be an occupational name for a messenger or carrier, as "bailer" can also refer to the act of carrying something.
The first recorded use of the surname Baylor in America was in the early 17th century when William Baylor emigrated from England to Virginia. Since then, the Baylor family has made significant contributions to American history and culture. One notable example is Thomas S. Baylor, a Confederate general during the American Civil War.
In recent years, the name Baylor has gained popularity as a given name for boys in the United States. It is often associated with Baylor University, a private Baptist university located in Waco, Texas, which was founded by Robert Emmett Baylor in 1845. The university's athletic teams are known as the Baylor Bears, which may have contributed to the increased popularity of the name among parents choosing names for their sons.
Overall, Baylor is an uncommon yet meaningful given name with a rich history and various possible origins and meanings. Its distinctive sound and connection to American heritage make it an appealing choice for parents looking for a unique name for their child.
The name Baylor has seen a significant increase in popularity over the past century in the United States, with a notable surge in recent years. In the early to mid-20th century, the number of babies named Baylor remained relatively low, fluctuating between 5 and 15 births per year from 1918 to 1993.
However, starting in 1994, there was a substantial rise in the usage of the name Baylor. Between 1994 and 2000, the number of annual births with this name more than doubled, from 27 in 1994 to 108 in 2000.
This upward trend continued into the 21st century, with the popularity of the name Baylor experiencing remarkable growth. Between 2000 and 2023, the number of annual births with this name increased from 108 to 812, marking a nearly eightfold rise over just two decades.
The most significant jump occurred between 2019 and 2020, when the number of babies named Baylor more than doubled, from 474 to 646 births. This sudden surge may be attributed to various factors such as changing trends in baby naming or increased awareness of the name.
Overall, the total number of births with the name Baylor in the United States since 1918 is an impressive 7,274. The striking growth in popularity of this name over recent years suggests that it has become a favored choice among parents seeking distinctive yet appealing options for their children's names.