The name Oakes is of English origin and has a long history dating back to the Middle Ages. It is derived from the Old English word "oak", which refers to the mighty oak tree. The name was originally given as a surname, but it has since become popular as a given name for boys.
In medieval England, surnames were often taken from nature, such as trees, animals, and landscapes. The surname Oakes was likely given to someone who lived near an oak forest or had some association with the oak tree. The oak tree is known for its strength, longevity, and beauty, which may have contributed to the popularity of the name.
Throughout history, several notable individuals have borne the name Oakes. One of the most famous is Sir Richard Oakes (1590-1673), an English judge who served as the Chief Justice of the Common Pleas from 1654 until his death in 1673. Other notable figures with the surname Oakes include the American poet and essayist William Oakes (1829-1906) and the Australian politician David Oakes (born 1958).
Today, the name Oakes continues to be associated with strength and endurance due to its connection with the oak tree. It is a unique and distinctive name that stands out from more common choices like John or Michael. While it may not be as widely used as some other names, those who bear the name Oakes can take pride in its rich history and meaningful origins.
Statistics on the given name Oakes show a consistent yet fluctuating trend over the past decade in the United States. Between 2012 and 2023, there were a total of 185 babies named Oakes at birth.
The year with the lowest number of births was 2012, with only six newborns named Oakes. The following year saw an increase to nine births. In 2014, there were 13 births, marking the first time this name reached double digits in a single year during the observed period.
After remaining relatively stable between 2015 and 2017 with annual birth counts ranging from 12 to 16, the trend began to shift upward. In 2018, there were 13 births, followed by an all-time high of 17 in 2019.
Despite a slight dip in popularity in 2020, with only ten babies named Oakes born that year, the name saw renewed growth in recent years. Both 2021 and 2022 had significant increases compared to the previous year, with 22 births each. The most recent data from 2023 shows another upward trend, with a total of 28 babies named Oakes born that year.
Overall, while the popularity of the name Oakes has varied over time, it has demonstrated steady growth and interest among parents in the United States during the past decade.