Pollyanna is a unique and charming girls' name of American origin. It was coined by Eleanor H. Porter for the protagonist of her popular series of books published in the early 20th century, starting with "Pollyanna" in 1913. The name Pollyanna itself does not have a clear etymological background; it is believed to be purely fictional and created by Porter to embody the optimism and cheerfulness of its bearer.
In Porter's novels, Pollyanna is an orphaned girl who maintains a positive outlook on life despite her difficult circumstances. She practices the "Glad Game," always finding something to be glad about in every situation, no matter how challenging it may seem. This philosophy has made Pollyanna and her story iconic in American literature and culture.
While Pollyanna may not have a traditional meaning or origin like many other names, its significance lies in the character it represents and the positive values it embodies. Today, Pollyanna remains an attractive choice for parents looking for a distinctive and meaningful name for their daughters.
The name Pollyann has seen a varied pattern of popularity over the years in the United States. Between 1920 and 2021, there have been a total of 166 babies named Pollyann.
Looking at the annual statistics, we can see that the name's popularity has fluctuated over time. The highest number of births with the name Pollyann occurred in 1948, with 11 babies given this name. This was followed by years with notable numbers such as 1961 (9 births), 1963 (8 births), and 1971 & 1973 (both with 7 births).
However, there are also many years where the name appears quite uncommon, with only 5 births each year. These years span from 1920 to 1973, demonstrating that while Pollyann was once a popular choice, it has since become less common.
It's interesting to note that despite its current rarity, the name Pollyann has a rich history and has been given to babies across several decades in the United States. This could suggest that some parents are drawn to the unique sound of the name or perhaps its symbolic meaning, making it a choice for those looking for something distinct.
In conclusion, while the popularity of the name Pollyann has ebbed and flowed over time, it remains a part of American naming history, with 166 babies sharing this distinctive moniker since 1920.