Beckett is a name of Irish origin, derived from the Gaelic word "beag" which means "small". It is typically a surname but has also been used as a given name for boys in recent years.
The name Beckett was originally a nickname or byname, given to someone who was short or small. This is reflective of its Gaelic root, "beag", meaning small. The name became popularized due to the works of the famous Irish playwright and novelist, Samuel Beckett, who won the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1969.
Throughout history, there have been many notable figures with the surname Beckett. These include Thomas Beckett, an Archbishop of Canterbury in the 12th century who was famously martyred by King Henry II's followers, and the aforementioned Samuel Beckett, whose groundbreaking works such as "Waiting for Godot" have had a significant impact on modern literature.
Today, Beckett is increasingly being used as a given name for boys. It has gained popularity due to its unique sound and its association with the famous playwright. However, despite its growing usage as a given name, it remains relatively uncommon compared to other names, which contributes to its distinctive character.
In conclusion, the name Beckett is of Irish origin, derived from the Gaelic word "beag" meaning small. It has been popularized by notable figures such as Samuel Beckett and has gained recognition as both a surname and a given name in recent years. Its unique sound and relatively uncommon usage make it a distinctive choice for parents looking for a name that is both meaningful and memorable.
The name Beckett has seen a significant increase in popularity over the past three decades in the United States. In 1992, there were only 6 babies named Beckett, but by 2023, that number had grown to 1865, indicating a remarkable 30750% increase.
The name's popularity began to take off around the year 2004, with a notable spike from 134 births in 2004 to 281 births in 2006. This growth trend continued consistently throughout the following years, reaching a peak of 1962 births in 2022.
Despite experiencing fluctuations in popularity over the years, Beckett has maintained its status as one of the most popular names for boys in recent times. This steady growth reflects the enduring appeal of this name among parents in the United States.