The name Stewart is of Scottish origin and means "guardian" or "caretaker". It is derived from the Old English word "steor", which means "steersman" or "pilot", and the suffix "-ward", meaning "keeper" or "guardian".
The Stewart family name originated in Scotland, where it was first recorded as a surname. The earliest known record of the Stewart surname is from the 13th century, when Alexander de Stewar appeared in Angus, Scotland.
The Stewart clan became one of the most powerful and influential families in Scottish history. They played a significant role in the political and cultural life of Scotland for centuries, and many members of the clan held prominent positions within the Scottish nobility.
Today, Stewart is still a popular name in Scotland and around the world. It has also been used as a given name since the Middle Ages. Some notable people named Stewart include the American actor Jimmy Stewart and the British singer Rod Stewart.
Overall, Stewart is an historic and distinguished name with a rich history that spans centuries and continents. Its meaning of "guardian" or "caretaker" makes it a fitting choice for those who value loyalty, protection, and guidance.
The statistics provided show the number of births with the name Stewart in the United States each year from 1880 to 2023. Over this period, there have been significant fluctuations in the popularity of the name.
In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the number of babies named Stewart ranged from a low of 19 births in 1880 to a high of 34 births in 1899. The name's popularity grew steadily throughout the first half of the 20th century, reaching a peak of 647 births in 1956.
However, after this peak, the number of babies named Stewart began to decline. By the late 1960s and early 1970s, the annual number of Stewart births had fallen below 350. This trend continued throughout the remainder of the century, with the name's popularity reaching its lowest point in recent years, with only 20 births recorded in 2023.
Despite this decline in popularity, it is clear that the name Stewart has a long and storied history in the United States. Over the course of more than a century and a half, tens of thousands of American babies have been named Stewart, contributing to a rich cultural legacy.
It's interesting to note that the name's popularity has not been consistent across different regions or demographic groups within the United States. For instance, some states may have higher concentrations of people with the name Stewart than others, and certain ethnic or socioeconomic groups may be more likely to choose this name for their children.
Furthermore, it is important to consider that these statistics only reflect the number of births recorded with the name Stewart. They do not account for individuals who were given different names at birth but later adopted the name Stewart, nor do they include people who were born outside the United States but immigrated there and subsequently took on the name.
In conclusion, while the popularity of the name Stewart has waxed and waned over the past century and a half, it remains an enduring part of American culture. Whether you are named Stewart yourself or simply appreciate the rich history behind this name, these statistics offer valuable insights into its ongoing significance in our collective experience.