The name Pleasant is an English given name of the past, known for its uniqueness and historical significance. Its origin can be traced back to the Middle Ages in England, where it was used as a personal name. The name Pleasant is derived from the Old French word "plaisant," which means agreeable or pleasing.
In medieval times, the name Pleasant was typically given to individuals who were seen as pleasant and amiable in character. It was also sometimes used as an occupational surname for those involved in the entertainment industry, such as minstrels and jesters, who would aim to bring pleasure to their audiences.
Throughout history, the name Pleasant has been relatively rare compared to more common names like John or Mary. However, there have been notable figures throughout history who bear this unique moniker. For example, Pleasant Deacon was an early American settler in Massachusetts, while Pleasant Rowland is a co-founder of the popular doll company, American Girl.
Despite its historical roots and unique meaning, the name Pleasant has not regained widespread popularity in recent times. However, it remains a distinctive and memorable choice for those looking for a uncommon and meaningful name.
The name Pleasant has been a rare but recurring choice for parents in the United States over the past century and a half. Between 1886 and 2013, there have been a total of 73 babies named Pleasant in the U.S., with birth years spread out across several decades.
The name's popularity has waxed and waned over time. In some years, such as 1890, 1893, and 1894, there were only five births recorded for each year. However, there have been periods when the name gained more traction, with seven births in both 1915 and 1917.
Interestingly, after a gap of nearly a century, the name Pleasant reemerged in the 2000s, with six babies given this name in 2013. This shows that even though it may not be one of the most popular choices, the name Pleasant continues to have its advocates among parents.
In conclusion, while Pleasant may not be a common name, it has maintained a consistent, if small, presence in the U.S. over time, with a total of 73 births recorded since 1886.