Meaning, origin, history
Young is a unisex given name of English origin that has gained popularity in recent years. It is derived from the English word "young," which means "not old; fresh and vigorous." This name has been used for both boys and girls, although it tends to be more common among males.
The use of Young as a given name can be traced back to the late 19th century in England. However, its popularity did not start to rise until the mid-20th century. In the United States, Young began appearing more frequently on birth certificates in the 1960s and reached peak popularity during the 1970s and early 1980s.
One notable figure with the name Young is American rapper Young Thug, born Jeffery Lamar Williams in 1991. His stage name reflects his own experiences growing up in poverty-stricken neighborhoods of Atlanta, Georgia.
Despite its unconventional origin as a given name, Young has been embraced by many parents for its simple, straightforward meaning and modern sound. It is often used alongside other names with descriptive meanings or nature-inspired themes. Some popular combinations include Young James, Young William, and Young Cedar.
In recent years, Young has also gained popularity in countries like France and Belgium, further cementing its place as a global name choice. While it may not have the rich history of some older names, Young's unique origin and positive meaning make it an appealing option for parents looking for something different yet meaningful for their child.
In numbers
Popularity of the name Young since 1880
Total births
2,234
Total since 1880
Peak year
1991
42 births
in 2022
6
Recent births (5 years)
5-year trend
-33%
↘
vs previous 5 years