Bonner is a unique and distinctive given name of American origin. It is derived from the surname Bonner, which has multiple origins itself. The most common origin is English, where it is believed to have been an occupational name for a baker or brewer, as it comes from the Middle English word 'boner', meaning 'baked bread' or 'fermented drink'. Another possible origin is German, where Bonner may have been a habitational name from a place called Bonne in Germany.
The given name Bonner first appeared in the United States during the late 19th century. It was likely brought over by immigrants from Europe who settled in America and passed down their family names to their children as given names. Today, Bonner is still relatively uncommon but can be found throughout the United States.
There is no specific meaning or symbolism associated with the name Bonner aside from its possible occupational origins. However, some people may associate it with other words like 'bonus' or 'bonanza', which could give it connotations of success or prosperity.
Overall, Bonner is a unique and distinctive given name with an interesting origin story. While not particularly common, it has a certain charm and character that sets it apart from more traditional names.
The name Bonner has had a variable popularity over the past century in the United States, as indicated by these annual birth statistics from 1912 to 2018.
Between 1912 and 1923, there was a noticeable fluctuation in the number of babies named Bonner each year. The highest peak during this period occurred in 1923 with 11 births, while the lowest point was reached in 1930 and 1931 with only 5 births each year.
From 1936 to 1950, there were consistently low numbers of babies named Bonner, ranging from 5 to 7 births per year. However, there was a slight increase starting in 1954 with 7 births, followed by a decline again until 1968.
The years between 1968 and 2004 saw another period of fluctuating popularity for the name Bonner, with numbers ranging from 5 to 7 births per year. There was a notable spike in 1985 with 7 births, but overall, this era witnessed a decrease in the use of the name compared to earlier decades.
More recently, from 2000 to 2018, there were consistently low numbers of babies named Bonner each year, with an average of around 5 births per year. Despite this recent decline, it is important to note that over the entire century-long span of these statistics, a total of 290 babies were given the name Bonner in the United States.
These trends suggest that while the name Bonner has not been particularly popular throughout history, there have been periods where it gained some traction. However, its overall usage remains relatively low and stable over time.