Whitman is a unique and distinctive given name of American origin. It is derived from an English surname that was originally an occupational name for a fuller, which was someone who cleaned and thickened cloth by beating it with a heavy wooden club called a "whitstock." The name is believed to have been derived from the Middle English word "whitte," meaning "white," possibly referring to the fact that fullers often used clay containing white chalk to clean the cloth.
The name Whitman has a long and notable history in American culture. It was popularized by the famous American poet Walt Whitman, who was born in 1819 and is considered one of the most influential figures in American literature. Whitman was known for his free verse poetry and his collection "Leaves of Grass," which was first published in 1855. His work had a significant impact on American literature and helped to establish a unique American voice in poetry.
In recent years, the name Whitman has seen a resurgence in popularity as a given name. It is often chosen for its strong and distinctive sound, as well as its connection to American history and culture. However, it remains relatively uncommon compared to more traditional names, making it a unique choice for parents looking for something different.
Overall, the name Whitman is a powerful and meaningful option with deep roots in American history and culture. Its occupational origins give it a strong and practical feel, while its association with one of America's most influential poets adds a touch of elegance and sophistication. Whether you're drawn to the name for its historical significance or simply love its sound, Whitman is sure to make a memorable and unique choice.
The name Whitman has been present in the United States for over a century, with the first recorded birth occurring in 1909. Since then, the name has seen varying degrees of popularity, with some years experiencing more births than others.
From 1909 to 1965, the number of births with the name Whitman remained relatively low, with fewer than 10 births per year on average. However, there were a few notable spikes in popularity during this period, such as in 1920 and 1987 when there were 10 births each year.
Starting in the late 1960s, the name Whitman began to gain more traction, with 8 births occurring in 1969. This trend continued into the 1970s and 1980s, with some years seeing as many as 9 births (in 1987) or even 14 births (in 2003 and 2004).
The name Whitman reached its peak popularity in recent years, with over 30 births occurring each year between 2013 and 2018. The most popular year for the name was 2017, when there were a total of 36 births.
Overall, the name Whitman has been given to a total of 842 babies in the United States since 1909. Despite its ups and downs in popularity over the years, the name continues to be chosen by parents for their children, with 28 births occurring just last year alone. It's clear that the name Whitman has stood the test of time and remains a popular choice among American parents today.