Jordan is a popular given name for males that has gained significant recognition in recent years. The name is of Hebrew origin and its meaning is derived from the Hebrew word "yarden," which translates to "flowing down" or "descending." This reference is believed to be connected to the Jordan River, a major geographical feature in the Middle East that flows into the Dead Sea.
The name Jordan has been used throughout history, with notable individuals bearing this name. One of the most famous historical figures named Jordan was Saint Jordan (also known as Jordanus), who was a 12th-century French theologian and philosopher. He is considered one of the major contributors to the development of the University of Paris.
In modern times, the name Jordan has become popular due in part to its widespread use in various cultures and countries around the world. It has been used in numerous languages and variations, including Jordán (Spanish), Giordano (Italian), and Jörgen (Scandinavian). Some famous people named Jordan include Jordan Belfort, the American author and motivational speaker known for his book "The Wolf of Wall Street," and Jordan Barrett, an Australian model.
Overall, the name Jordan is a strong and distinct name that carries a rich history and cultural significance. Its Hebrew origin and biblical associations contribute to its enduring popularity as a given name for males.
The given statistics illustrate the popularity of the name Jordan among newborns in the United States over a span of nearly 140 years, from 1880 to 2022.
Initially, the name Jordan appeared infrequently in the late 19th century, with annual births ranging between 7 and 31 during the period from 1880 to 1912. However, starting in 1913, there was a noticeable increase in the number of newborns named Jordan, marking the beginning of its ascent in popularity.
The name gained significant traction in the mid-20th century, particularly after 1957. In that year, there were 207 births for the name Jordan, a substantial jump from the previous year's total of 137 births. This trend continued into the 1960s and 1970s, with the number of annual births for Jordan consistently rising.
The height of popularity for the name Jordan occurred between 1976 and 2008. During this period, the number of newborns named Jordan reached its peak in 1990 with a total of 16,136 births. This represented an incredible increase from the previous decade, when the highest yearly figure was just 5,461 births in 1985.
However, after reaching this zenith, the popularity of the name Jordan began to decline steadily. By 2022, the total number of newborns named Jordan had decreased to 3,632 births, a significant drop from its peak nearly three decades prior.
Overall, these statistics show that while the name Jordan has been popular in the United States for over a century, its popularity has waxed and waned significantly throughout this time. Despite its recent decline, it remains a widely-used name with historical staying power among American parents.