Pleasant is an unusual and distinctive given name of English origin. It is derived from the Middle English word 'plesant', which means 'agreeable' or 'pleasing'. The name Pleasant was popular during the Victorian era in England, but it has since become quite rare.
The name Pleasant was most likely used as a first name by Puritans who immigrated to America in the 17th century. It is believed that they chose names like Pleasant, Delightful, and Joyful to reflect their religious beliefs and their desire for a simple, virtuous life. Some of the earliest records of the name Pleasant can be found in New England, where Puritan settlements were established.
Today, Pleasant is rarely used as a first name, but it can still be found as a middle or surname. Despite its rarity, the name Pleasant has a unique charm and may appeal to those looking for an unusual and meaningful name with historical roots. Its association with agreeableness and pleasing qualities makes it a fitting choice for someone who embodies kindness, warmth, and positivity.
The name Pleasant has seen a varied number of births over the years in the United States. The highest number of births recorded was in 1924 with 22 babies named Pleasant, while the lowest was just 5 births in several years including 1883, 1891, and 1962.
From 1880 to 1962, there were a total of 629 babies born with the name Pleasant in the United States. The popularity of the name seemed to peak in the early 1900s, with consistent births each year, but began to decline steadily after World War II.
Despite its fluctuations in popularity, the name Pleasant remains a unique choice for parents seeking something distinctive for their child. It's worth noting that these statistics only represent births and do not take into account those who may have changed their name to Pleasant or other factors that could affect the overall number of people with this name today.
In conclusion, while the name Pleasant has seen varying levels of popularity throughout its history in the United States, it continues to be a unique and meaningful choice for parents looking for something different.