The name Douglas is of Scottish origin and has a rich history dating back to the Middle Ages. It is derived from the surname "Dugald," which was originally an Old Gaelic personal name composed of elements meaning "dark" or "black" and "strife." The name was borne by several prominent figures in Scottish history, including Douglas, Lord of Galloway, who played a significant role in the Wars of Independence against England.
The name Douglas became widely used as a given name in Scotland during the 18th century. It eventually spread to other English-speaking countries and gained popularity throughout the world. Today, it is often associated with notable individuals such as Douglas Fairbanks Jr., an American actor, and Douglas MacArthur, a prominent U.S. Army general.
In terms of meaning, the name Douglas does not have a specific definition, but it has been interpreted in various ways over time. Some sources suggest that it means "black water" or "dark river," possibly referring to the River Douglas in Scotland. Others believe it means "from the dark stream" or "from the gloomy water."
Overall, the name Douglas is steeped in history and has a unique origin story that sets it apart from many other names. Its meaning may be open to interpretation, but its Scottish heritage and association with notable figures make it an enduring and memorable choice for a child's name.
The name Douglas has seen a varied journey of popularity over the years in the United States. Initially quite common in the late 1800s with around 30 births per year, it began to rise steadily from the turn of the century.
By the 1920s and 1930s, Douglas reached its peak, with over 2500 births recorded each year. This high popularity lasted for several decades until the mid-1960s when it started declining gradually.
In the 1970s and 1980s, around 5000 boys were named Douglas annually. Since then, there has been a consistent downward trend in its usage, with fewer than 400 births recorded yearly since the mid-1990s.
Despite this decline in popularity, Douglas remains a name rich in history and tradition. Derived from Scottish origins meaning "dark river," it was once commonly associated with powerful figures like the Douglas clan and even U.S. President Douglas MacArthur.
The total number of boys named Douglas in the United States stands at an impressive 559410, reflecting its enduring appeal over time despite recent waning popularity.