Myrtle is a unique and enchanting feminine given name of Greek origin. Its derivation comes from the myrte, which is the Greek word for "myrtle plant." The myrtle plant was highly revered in ancient Greece due to its fragrant leaves and white flowers that symbolized love, marriage, and femininity.
The name Myrtle became popular during the Victorian era in England and has since been used as a given name throughout various parts of the world. It reached peak popularity in the United States during the late 19th century but has since become less common.
Throughout history, several notable figures have borne the name Myrtle. One such figure is Myrtle Corbin, an American sideshow performer born with four legs who achieved fame during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. However, it's essential not to conflate this historical figure with the meaning and significance of the name itself.
In literature, the name Myrtle appears in several works, including William Shakespeare's "The Tempest," where Miranda is referred to as a "myrtle" due to her sweetness and beauty. Additionally, the name can be found in various pieces of poetry and prose throughout literary history.
Today, Myrtle remains an uncommon yet captivating given name that carries with it a rich historical and cultural heritage. Parents who choose this name for their daughter may appreciate its unique origin, elegant sound, and enduring significance as a symbol of love and beauty. While it might not be as popular as some other names, those who bear the name Myrtle stand out due to its distinctive charm and intriguing history.
The name Myrtle has seen a varied history of usage in the United States since it was first given to five girls in 1880. The highest number of babies named Myrtle occurred in 1915, with an impressive 22 births that year alone. This peak is likely due to its popularity during the late Victorian era and early 20th century.
Interestingly, there were several years where Myrtle was not given as a name at all (such as between 1881-1883), indicating periods of less popularity. However, it remained relatively steady throughout much of the first half of the 20th century, with an average of around five to ten births per year from 1940 onwards.
Despite its fluctuations in popularity over time, Myrtle has been given as a name to a total of 498 babies born in the United States since 1880. This demonstrates that while it may not have been the most common choice for parents throughout history, there has still been consistent usage of this unique and distinctive name across different generations.