Legend is a unique and striking male given name that has gained popularity in recent years, particularly in English-speaking countries. Its origin can be traced back to the Old English word "leogend," which evolved into the Middle English "legende" and eventually became "legend" in modern English.
The name Legend means "story of the life of a saint or holy person." It is derived from the Latin word " legenda," which translates to "things to be read" or "things to be learned." In medieval times, legends were written accounts of the lives and deeds of saints, often used for religious instruction and devotion.
Throughout history, there have been several notable figures with the name Legend. One of the most famous is American rapper Legendary (born Robert James Hall II), who was a prominent figure in the underground hip-hop scene during the late 1980s and early 1990s. Additionally, singer-songwriter John Legend (born John Roger Stephens) is another notable figure with this name, known for his soulful ballads and collaborations with various artists.
Despite its religious origins, Legend has transcended its historical context and is now often chosen by parents who wish to give their child a strong, memorable, and distinctive name. The name Legend evokes images of heroism, courage, and timelessness, making it an appealing choice for those seeking a unique moniker with deep roots in history and culture.
In conclusion, Legend is a powerful and striking male given name that has evolved over centuries from its religious origins to become a popular choice among parents today. With its rich history and meaningful significance, Legend stands out as a unique and memorable name that will leave a lasting impression on those who hear it.
The name Legend has seen a significant increase in popularity over the past three decades in the United States. In the early 1990s, it was a relatively rare name, with only 10 births recorded in 1993 and 11 births in 1994. However, by the late 1990s, the popularity of the name began to rise steadily, reaching 29 births in 1995.
The turn of the millennium marked a turning point for the name Legend, as it started to gain traction among parents-to-be. Between 2000 and 2010, there was a noticeable increase in the number of babies named Legend each year, from 40 births in 2000 to 215 births in 2011.
The popularity of the name Legend continued to grow exponentially throughout the 2010s. In just seven years, from 2013 to 2020, the number of annual births with the name Legend more than tripled, from 326 births in 2013 to a peak of 3178 births in 2021. Although there was a slight dip in popularity in 2022, with 2895 births recorded, the name Legend remained one of the most popular boys' names that year.
In total, from 1993 to 2023, there have been over 21600 births registered with the name Legend in the United States. This impressive growth in popularity can be attributed to a variety of factors, including celebrity influence and a shift in cultural attitudes towards unique and powerful-sounding names.
Despite its recent surge in popularity, the name Legend remains relatively uncommon compared to other popular boys' names such as Noah, Liam, and William. Nonetheless, it continues to capture parents' attention with its distinctive sound and potentially meaningful implications.