Marshall is a strong and distinctive name of English origin. It is derived from the Old English word "marsh," which refers to a wet, swampy area of land. The name Marshall is believed to have been first used as a surname, given to individuals who lived near marshes or had some connection to them.
The name Marshall has a long and rich history. In medieval England, it was often associated with the marshals, who were high-ranking officials responsible for organizing tournaments, games, and hunting events. The name may also have been given to individuals who served as marshals in the military, where they were tasked with maintaining order and discipline among the troops.
Over time, the surname Marshall became popular as a given name. Today, it is often associated with prominent figures such as General George Marshall, the American military leader who played a significant role in World War II and was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for his contributions to international cooperation after the war.
While there is no specific meaning attributed to the name Marshall beyond its literal association with marshes, it is often interpreted as symbolizing strength, leadership, and adaptability. Those who bear the name may be seen as individuals who can navigate challenging terrain and rise above difficult circumstances, much like the plants and animals that thrive in marshy environments.
In terms of popularity, Marshall has been a relatively uncommon given name throughout most of its history. However, it gained some traction in the mid-20th century and has since experienced modest peaks and valleys in usage. According to data from the Social Security Administration, Marshall was ranked #894 for boys' names in the United States in 2020.
Overall, Marshall is a unique and powerful name with a rich history and an intriguing origin story. Whether given as a first name or used as a surname, it carries a sense of strength, leadership, and adaptability that makes it a distinctive choice for individuals seeking a name that stands out from the crowd.
The data provided shows the annual number of births with the name Marshall in the United States from 1880 to 2023. The statistics indicate that the popularity of the name Marshall has fluctuated over time, with periods of high and low usage.
In the late 19th century, the number of babies named Marshall ranged between a low of 56 births in 1881 to a high of 160 births in 1908. The early 20th century saw a steady increase in the popularity of the name, with the highest number of Marshall births occurring in 1917, with 878 babies named Marshall.
The middle of the century showed a decline in the usage of the name Marshall, with the lowest point being in 1959, when only 891 babies were named Marshall. However, from the late 1960s onwards, there was an increase in popularity again, reaching a peak in 2014 and 2015 with 1,102 births each year.
The most recent data shows that while the popularity of the name Marshall has decreased slightly in recent years, it remains relatively stable. Between 2016 and 2023, there were between 813 and 941 babies named Marshall each year.
Overall, these statistics demonstrate how the name Marshall has evolved in popularity over time in the United States. Despite fluctuations, it remains a enduring choice for parents, with thousands of children bearing this name throughout American history.