The name West is of English origin and means "from the west." It is derived from the Old English word "west," which refers to the direction towards the setting sun. The name has been used as a given name since the Middle Ages, but it became more popular in recent years as a unisex given name.
The name West is often associated with the compass point and the direction of the west. It can also be linked to Western culture or the American West, which are both rich in history and tradition. However, the name does not have any specific historical figures or events attached to it that are well-known throughout history.
In literature, the name West appears in various works such as "Westworld," a science fiction television series created by Jonathan Nolan, and "The Westing Game," a novel written by Ellen Raskin. Additionally, several celebrities have chosen West as their child's given name, including actress Jessica Simpson who named her son Ace Knute West.
Overall, the name West is a unique and modern choice for a given name that carries a distinct meaning and association with directionality. It is also a unisex name, making it an appealing option for parents looking for a gender-neutral name for their child.
The name West has been given to a total of 3,387 babies born in the United States between 1880 and 2023, according to the annual statistics provided. The number of births per year fluctuates significantly over this period.
In the late 19th century, the name West was relatively uncommon, with fewer than 20 births per year from 1880 to 1899. However, it began to gain some traction in the early 20th century, with more than 20 births per year recorded between 1904 and 1907.
The name West experienced its first peak of popularity during the 1910s, with more than 20 births per year every year except for 1911. The highest number of births in this decade was 30 in 1919. This trend continued into the 1920s and early 1930s, with more than 20 births per year recorded each year until 1934.
After a decline in popularity during the mid-1930s, the name West regained some traction in the late 1940s and early 1950s. Between 1949 and 1953, there were more than 20 births per year each year except for 1951.
The name West experienced another peak of popularity during the late 1960s to early 1970s, with more than 20 births per year recorded every year between 1968 and 1973. The highest number of births in this period was 24 in 1970.
After a decline in popularity during the mid-1970s, the name West experienced another peak of popularity during the late 1980s to early 1990s. Between 1985 and 1993, there were more than 20 births per year each year except for 1987.
In recent years, the name West has remained relatively popular, with more than 60 births per year recorded every year between 2006 and 2023. The highest number of births in this period was 130 in 2022.
Overall, while the popularity of the name West has fluctuated over time, it has remained a relatively uncommon choice for parents in the United States. However, there have been several periods where the name gained significant traction, particularly during the early to mid-20th century and again in recent years.