Agnes is a feminine given name of Latin origin. It comes from the Latin word "agnus," which means "lamb." The name Agnes was popular among early Christians due to its association with innocence and purity, as represented by the lamb in religious symbolism.
The name Agnes has been used throughout history, particularly in the Middle Ages. Saint Agnes was a martyr in the 3rd century who is revered in Christianity. She was known for her chastity and virtue, and her feast day is celebrated on January 21st. Many churches are named after her, and her name has been bestowed upon numerous individuals throughout history.
Agnes has also been used as a given name in various cultures around the world. In England, Agnes was a popular name during the Middle Ages, often used to honor Saint Agnes or simply due to its association with innocence and purity. In Scotland, Agnes was often shortened to "Ness" or "Neil," resulting in names like Nessie or Neil.
Today, Agnes is still used as a given name but is less common than it once was. However, it remains a timeless name with a rich history and meaningful origin. It can serve as a unique and memorable choice for parents seeking a distinctive name for their daughter.
The name Agness experienced a notable increase in popularity over time, with the first significant rise occurring around the turn of the century (1899-1902), peaking at 16 births in 1912. The peak period from 1912 to 1923 saw a substantial increase, reaching an all-time high of 38 births in 1923. Afterward, the popularity declined significantly until 1945, with fewer than 10 births each year during this period. There was another brief spike in popularity in 1955 and again in 2014, both with 5 births. Overall, there were a total of 747 recorded births with the name Agness between 1885 and 2014.