The name Wells is of English origin and has a rich history behind it. It is derived from the Old English word "wella", which means "spring" or "well". The name was originally given to people who lived near a well or springs, as it was believed that these locations were associated with good fortune.
In the Middle Ages, Wells became a popular surname in England due to its association with the city of Wells in Somerset. The city is known for its stunning cathedral and beautiful architecture, which may have contributed to the popularity of the name.
Over time, Wells has also become a given name for boys and girls alike. It continues to be associated with its original meaning of "spring" or "well", but it can also evoke images of other things that begin with the letter 'W', such as wisdom, wonder, and wellness.
Some notable individuals with the name Wells include the famous American writer H.G. Wells, known for his science fiction novels such as "The Time Machine" and "The War of the Worlds". There is also a town called Wells in Nevada, USA, which was named after the early settler Anson S. Wells.
In conclusion, the name Wells has an interesting history and meaning behind it. It is a name that has evolved over time from being primarily a surname to being used as both a boy's and girl's given name. Despite its origins, it continues to be associated with positive connotations such as good fortune, wisdom, wonder, and wellness.
The name Wells has seen a varied trend in popularity over the years in the United States, with the number of births fluctuating annually.
From 1998 to 2023, there have been a total of 149 babies named Wells born in the U.S. The earliest year recorded was 1998, with just 5 newborns sharing this name. This figure remained consistent until 2011 when it rose slightly to 6 births.
In 2013 and 2014, there were 7 babies named Wells each year, indicating a slight increase in popularity. However, the number of births surged significantly from 2015 onwards, with 12 births recorded in 2016, followed by 10 in 2017.
The peak in popularity occurred recently, with 18 babies named Wells born in both 2019 and 2023. The years 2020 to 2022 also showed high numbers of births (10, 17, and 15 respectively), suggesting that the name Wells has been growing in popularity among parents in recent times.
Despite its ups and downs, the name Wells has consistently been present in U.S. birth records over the past two and a half decades, with at least one baby being named Wells each year since 1998. This demonstrates a level of enduring appeal for this name among American parents.