Jasper is a unique and distinctive name of Persian origin, derived from the word 'yasamin', which means 'jasmine flower'. It is also associated with the semi-precious stone called jasper, known for its beautiful colors and patterns.
In literature, Jasper has been used as a character name in various works. One notable example is in 'The Little Prince' by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry, where the main character visits the planet inhabited by a king named Jasper who cries alone because he has no subjects to rule over. This usage adds an interesting layer of depth and meaning to the name.
Historically, Jasper has been used as a given name since at least the Middle Ages in England, although it was not particularly common until the 20th century. It gained popularity in the United States around the mid-1990s and reached its peak popularity in 2003 when it ranked within the top 500 most popular names for boys.
Today, Jasper remains a unique yet approachable name option that parents may choose for their children as a way to honor Persian heritage or simply because they appreciate the sound of the name. Its association with both jasmine flowers and semi-precious stones also makes it an appealing choice for those who value beauty and natural elements in names.
Overall, Jasper is a name rich in history and meaning, offering parents a distinct naming option that pays homage to its Persian roots while remaining relevant and appealing today.
The name Jasper has been a popular choice for parents in the United States over the past century and a half, with its popularity waxing and waning over time.
In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, there were fewer than 100 births per year with the name Jasper. However, starting around 1910, the number of births began to rise steadily, reaching a peak of 391 in 1918.
After World War I, the popularity of the name Jasper declined, dropping as low as 52 births in 1904. This trend continued until the mid-1970s when the name started to gain traction again, with over 100 births per year for several years running.
The real surge in popularity for the name Jasper came in the late 1990s and early 2000s. In 2000, there were 334 babies named Jasper, and by 2010, that number had more than tripled to 1183 births. Since then, the name has continued to rise in popularity, with over 2900 births recorded in 2022 alone.
Overall, since record-keeping began in the United States, there have been a total of 56,817 babies named Jasper. While it may not be the most popular name on this list, its steady increase in popularity over time is clear to see.