Everything about the name MARTIN

Meaning, origin, history

Martin is a name of Latin origin, derived from the Roman family name Martius. This name was originally given to people born in March, as "marts" is the Latin word for Mars, the Roman god of war. However, it has since evolved and is now widely used as an independent given name.

The meaning behind the name Martin is associated with several interpretations. One common interpretation is that it means "of Mars," reflecting its original connection to the Roman god of war. Another interpretation is that it signifies "warlike" or "brave." This latter association may have contributed to its popularity throughout history, as many cultures have valued strength and courage in their people.

The name Martin has a rich history, with numerous notable figures bearing this name throughout the centuries. One of the most famous Martins is Saint Martin of Tours, who was a 4th-century Christian bishop. He is known for his generosity and kindness, particularly his act of cutting his cloak in half to share with a beggar during a cold winter night. This story has become a popular depiction of charity in art and literature.

Another notable figure named Martin is the German philosopher and economist, Karl Marx. Born in 1818, Marx is best known for his political theories, including communism and socialism, which have had significant impacts on global politics and society.

In contemporary culture, the name Martin continues to be popular. It has been used by various celebrities and historical figures, such as the American actor Martin Sheen, the British singer-songwriter Martin Carthy, and the former British prime minister, Boris Johnson. Additionally, the name Martin is featured in many works of literature and art, including the novels "A Tale of Two Cities" by Charles Dickens and "Martin Eden" by Jack London.

Overall, the name Martin has a strong connection to ancient Roman history and culture, with its meaning and popularity evolving over time. Throughout the centuries, numerous notable figures have carried this name, contributing to its enduring appeal and significance.

Popularity of the name MARTIN since 1880

Birth evolution

Popularity analysis

The name Martin has been popular in the United States since the late 19th century, with over 300 births each year between 1880 and 1899. The number of births fluctuated throughout this period, ranging from a low of 260 in 1899 to a high of 387 in 1882.

In the early 20th century, the popularity of the name Martin continued to grow. Between 1900 and 1920, the number of births increased significantly, from 383 in 1900 to a peak of 2461 in 1921. This trend continued throughout the 1920s and 1930s, with over 2000 births each year between 1923 and 1937.

The popularity of the name Martin began to decline after World War II. Between 1945 and 1965, the number of births decreased from a high of 3333 in 1946 to a low of 4210 in 1966. This trend continued throughout the 1970s and 1980s, with fewer than 2500 births each year between 1972 and 1990.

In recent decades, the name Martin has remained relatively popular in the United States, with over 1000 births each year since 1990. However, the popularity of the name has continued to decline, with fewer than 1500 births each year between 2008 and 2022.

Overall, the name Martin has been popular in the United States for over a century, with over 313,409 births recorded since 1880. While the popularity of the name has fluctuated over time, it remains a classic choice for parents looking for a timeless and distinguished name for their child.