Craig is a masculine given name of Scottish origin. It comes from the Gaelic word "creag," which means "rock" or "crag." The name Craig is often associated with Scotland's rugged landscapes, as it refers to rocky outcrops or cliffs.
The use of Craig as a given name can be traced back to the 19th century. However, its popularity has grown significantly in recent decades. Today, Craig is considered a popular and modern name, often used by parents who appreciate its strong Scottish roots and unique sound.
In some cases, Craig may also be used as a surname, derived from locations named after rocky formations. This practice has contributed to the spread of the name throughout Scotland and beyond.
Overall, Craig is a distinctive and meaningful given name that pays homage to Scotland's rich natural heritage. Its straightforward and powerful meaning makes it an appealing choice for parents seeking a strong and memorable name for their son.
The name Craig has a rich history and varied popularity throughout the United States, as demonstrated by these statistics from 1881 to 2023.
In the late 19th century, the name Craig made its first significant appearance in the United States, with an average of 5 births per year between 1881 and 1896. This can be attributed to the name's Scottish origins, as Craig is derived from the Gaelic word 'creag', meaning 'rock'.
The early 20th century saw a steady increase in the popularity of the name Craig. Between 1900 and 1923, there was an average of 75 births per year, with peaks in 1912 (26 births) and 1914 (38 births). This period coincides with increased immigration from Scotland to the United States, which may have contributed to the rise in popularity of the name Craig.
The post-World War II era marked a significant turning point for the name Craig. Between 1946 and 1950, there was an average of over 4,000 births per year, with a peak of nearly 5,700 births in 1950. This corresponds with the post-war baby boom, during which many American families were expanding.
Throughout the 1960s and 1970s, Craig remained popular, with an average of around 7,800 births per year between 1960 and 1979. However, by the late 1970s and early 1980s, there was a noticeable decline in popularity, with fewer than 4,500 births per year on average.
The 1990s saw a further decrease in the popularity of Craig, with an average of around 2,300 births per year between 1990 and 1999. This trend continued into the early 21st century, with fewer than 500 births per year on average from 2000 to 2018.
Despite its decline in popularity as a given name, Craig remains a enduring classic among surnames. In fact, it is one of the most common surnames in Scotland and throughout the United Kingdom today.
In conclusion, while the popularity of Craig as a given name has ebbed and flowed over the past century and a half, there is no denying that this Scottish moniker has made its mark on American history.