Whitten is an uncommon given name of English origin. It is a variant spelling of the name "Whitton," which has its roots in Old English. The name Whitten is believed to have derived from the Old English word "hwit," meaning white, and the suffix "-tun," which denotes a settlement or farmstead.
The name Whitten is thought to have originated as a topographical surname given to someone who lived near a white house or farm, or perhaps someone who had very fair hair. Over time, the name evolved from a surname into a given name, although it remains relatively rare today.
There are no notable historical figures with the name Whitten, and its meaning has not changed significantly over time. Despite its uncommon usage, Whitten is still considered a unisex name, though it may be perceived as more masculine due to its association with white, which is often associated with male gender stereotypes.
In terms of popularity, Whitten does not rank among the most common names in English-speaking countries. However, it is possible that individuals named Whitten have achieved notable success or recognition in various fields, but this would not be attributable solely to their name. Ultimately, the significance and history of the name Whitten lie more in its origins and meaning than in any specific achievements associated with it.
The name Whitten has had a consistent presence in the United States over the past few years, with an average of five babies being named Whitten each year between 2014 and 2019. Interestingly, this number increased to seven births in the year 2021, indicating a slight surge in popularity for this name during that time.
Overall, from 2014 to 2021, there have been a total of 22 babies named Whitten in the United States. This statistic reflects the steady usage of the name Whitten as a baby name choice among parents during this six-year period.