Everything about the name KIRKE

Meaning, origin, history

Kirke is a unique and distinctive given name of Scandinavian origin. It is derived from the Old Norse word "kirki" or "kirkja", which means "church". The name has been popular among the Scandinavian people for centuries, particularly in Norway and Sweden.

The name Kirke was traditionally given to girls in these regions, although it can be used for both boys and girls. It is often associated with religious imagery due to its direct meaning. In Norse mythology, the goddess Syr is said to have been born in a church named after her, which may have contributed to the popularity of the name Kirke.

One notable historical figure who bore this name was Queen Margaret I of Denmark (1353-1412), also known as Margaret I of Norway and Margaret II of Sweden. She was the daughter of King Håkon VI of Norway and was married to Haakon VI's cousin, King Valdemar IV of Denmark. Queen Margaret played a significant role in the union of the three kingdoms under one crown, a period known as the Kalmar Union.

Today, Kirke continues to be a popular given name in Scandinavia, although it is still relatively rare compared to other names such as Emma, Olivia, or William. Despite its rarity, the name Kirke has a rich history and unique meaning that sets it apart from many other names. Its association with religion and Scandinavian royalty gives it an air of elegance and sophistication that continues to appeal to parents seeking a distinctive name for their children.

Popularity of the name KIRKE since 1880

Birth evolution

Popularity analysis

The name Kirke has a unique distribution in the United States, with a total of 71 births recorded between 1934 and 1964. The popularity of this name varied significantly over this period. In the early years, there were fewer than 10 births each year, but it peaked at 8 births in 1938.

Interestingly, the name Kirke experienced a brief resurgence in the mid-1950s and early 1960s, with more than 5 births occurring annually from 1952 to 1964. During this time, there were even years where 7 or more babies were given the name Kirke.

Despite these fluctuations, it's clear that Kirke was not a ubiquitous choice among parents during this era. Its total number of births places it in the category of less common names, which can be intriguing and distinctive for those who bear it.