The name Bishop is of English origin and it is derived from the Old English word 'bisceop' which means 'bishop'. The term bishop originally referred to a high-ranking member of the Christian clergy who was responsible for overseeing a diocese. Over time, the name Bishop has evolved to become a given name in its own right.
The name Bishop has been popular throughout history, with notable bearers including Bishop Kenrick, an American Catholic bishop who served as the third Archbishop of Philadelphia from 1875 until his death in 1907. Another famous bearer of the name is Bishop T.D. Jakes, a charismatic evangelist and pastor who heads The Potter's House, a non-denominational church located in Dallas, Texas.
In terms of its meaning, the name Bishop carries a sense of authority, leadership, and spiritual significance. It is often associated with wisdom, guidance, and a deep understanding of life's complexities. People named Bishop are often seen as natural leaders who possess a strong sense of purpose and a desire to make a positive impact on the world around them.
Despite its religious origins, the name Bishop has become increasingly secular in recent years and is now commonly used as a given name for boys regardless of their family's faith or beliefs. It is a strong, distinctive name that carries with it a certain air of gravitas and sophistication.
The name Bishop has seen a notable increase in popularity over the past decade, with a significant jump from just 6 births in 2017 to 17 in 2019. This trend has continued, with consistent high numbers up until last year, when there were 9 births in 2023. Overall, there have been 93 babies named Bishop born between 2003 and 2023.