Baird is a name of Scottish origin, derived from the Old Gaelic word "barra," which means "fair-haired." It was traditionally used as both a given name and a surname for people with fair hair or light complexion.
The name Baird has a long history in Scotland, dating back to at least the 13th century. Records show that it was borne by several notable figures throughout Scottish history. One of the earliest known bearers of the name was Thomas Baird, who served as an ambassador for King Robert Bruce during his negotiations with England.
In more recent times, the name Baird has been associated with various fields and professions. For instance, it is shared by several prominent scientists, including Alexander Graham Baird, a noted evolutionary biologist, and William Baird, a pioneer in the field of electrical engineering.
Additionally, the name Baird has also gained some recognition within the arts community. For example, it is borne by Scottish playwright and poet John Baird, as well as American composer John Baird.
Overall, Baird is a unique yet historically significant name with a rich heritage that spans centuries and continents. Its meaning adds to its charm, making it an appealing choice for parents looking for a distinctive name for their child.
Over the span of a century (1915-2021), the name Baird experienced fluctuations in popularity, with a total of 463 babies named Baird being born during this period. The years with the highest number of births were 1947 and 1957, each with 17 births. However, there were also periods where the name was less common, such as between 1923 to 1942, when there were fewer than 6 births per year on average. The most recent decade (2011-2021) has seen a resurgence in the popularity of the name Baird, with an average of around 8 births per year.