Houston is a unique and distinctive given name that is believed to have originated from the English language. The name Houston is derived from the Old English word "hou" which means "shout," and the Middle English word "hous" which means "house." Therefore, the meaning of the name Houston can be interpreted as "shouting house."
The name Houston has been popular throughout history, with several notable figures sharing this moniker. One of the most famous Houstons is Sam Houston, a 19th-century American military leader and politician who played a significant role in the Texas Revolution. He was born Samuel Houston but later went by the name Sam Houston. Another notable figure is Houston Stewart Chamberlain, a German philosopher and historian known for his influential work "Foundations of the Nineteenth Century."
Despite its English origins, the name Houston has gained popularity worldwide and can be found among various cultures and communities today. While it may not be as common as some other names, Houston remains an appealing choice for parents seeking a distinctive and meaningful name for their child.
In terms of its usage over time, the name Houston has experienced periods of popularity and decline throughout history. In the United States, for instance, its peak popularity occurred in the late 19th century, with a resurgence in recent years. According to data from the Social Security Administration, the name Houston reached its highest rank in the U.S. during the 1880s, when it was among the top 500 names for newborn boys.
Overall, Houston is an interesting and historic given name that carries with it a rich history and meaningful interpretation. Its unique origins and notable bearers make it a distinctive choice for parents looking to give their child a strong and memorable name.
These statistics show a significant increase in the number of babies named Houston over time. In the late 19th century (1880-1900), there were consistently fewer than 50 Houstons born each year, with numbers fluctuating between 11 and 33. However, beginning around 1912, we see a steady rise in Houston births, reaching triple digits by 1914. This trend continues into the late 20th century and beyond, with Houston becoming quite popular as a baby name, particularly in recent years (2018-2023), where it consistently ranks among the top 500 names nationwide. In total, over 17,000 babies have been named Houston since 1880.