Waddell is a unique and distinctive given name of Scottish origin. It is derived from the Gaelic surname "Mac an Fhòidh," which means "son of the deer." The surname was originally given to a person who had the appearance or agility of a deer.
The name Waddell has a rich history in Scotland, dating back to the Middle Ages. It is believed that the name originated in the Highlands of Scotland, where it was borne by a clan known for their hunting skills and prowess. The surname was later anglicized to Waddell as Scottish families migrated southwards.
Over time, Waddell has evolved from a surname to a given name, particularly in Scotland and among Scottish descendants living abroad. Today, Waddell is still relatively uncommon, but it is known for its unique sound and Scottish heritage.
In summary, Waddell is a Scottish given name that originated as a surname meaning "son of the deer." It has a rich history dating back to medieval Scotland and is known for its distinctive sound and Scottish roots. Despite being relatively uncommon today, Waddell remains a popular choice among families with Scottish ancestry.
The name Waddell has seen varying levels of popularity over the years in the United States, with a total of 780 births recorded between 1908 and 1990.
Between 1908 and 1923, there was an average of approximately 11 births per year. The name reached its peak popularity during this period, with 20 births recorded in 1924. This high level of popularity continued until the mid-1930s, with an average of around 13 births per year between 1924 and 1937.
However, starting from the late 1930s, there was a steady decline in the popularity of the name Waddell. Between 1938 and 1950, there was an average of only around 9 births per year. This downward trend continued throughout the 1950s and 1960s, with the number of annual births dropping to single digits in some years.
The name Waddell remained relatively uncommon throughout the 1970s and 1980s, with an average of around 6 births per year. The most recent data available is from 1990, which recorded 5 births that year.
Overall, while the name Waddell has seen periods of popularity over the years in the United States, it has never been among the most popular names. Its usage has generally declined since its peak in the early 20th century.