The name Alder is of English origin and it has a strong connection to nature. It is derived from the old English word "æld", which means 'elf'. This is fitting as the alder tree was often associated with elves in mythology.
The alder tree, also known as Alnus glutinosa, is a species of tree native to Europe and western Asia. It is known for its ability to thrive in wet soils near rivers and streams. The alder tree has played an important role in many cultures throughout history. In Norse mythology, the alder was considered sacred to the goddess Freya.
The name Alder is not very common but it has been used periodically throughout history. There are a few notable figures with this name such as Alder King, a medieval English bishop and Alder Hey Children's Hospital in Liverpool, England which was named after Alder Hey Park where it is located.
In terms of popularity, the name Alder has never made it into the top 1000 most popular names for boys in the United States. However, it has gained some traction in recent years as parents look for unique and meaningful names for their children.
Overall, the name Alder is a strong and distinctive choice that carries with it a rich history and natural significance. It is a name that may not be widely known but certainly deserves consideration for those looking for an uncommon and meaningful moniker.
The name Alder has seen a significant increase in popularity over the past few decades in the United States. From only 6 births in 1915, the number of babies named Alder grew steadily, reaching a peak of 125 births in 2022. This trend reflects a broader phenomenon of unique and uncommon names gaining traction among parents.
The name Alder first began to gain traction in the late 1980s and early 1990s, with consistent double-digit birth numbers appearing from 1988 onwards. However, it was not until the mid-2000s that the name started to become more popular, with births ranging between 16 to 34 annually.
The recent decade has seen an even more dramatic rise in popularity for Alder. From 45 births in 2014, the number of babies named Alder doubled by 2021, reaching a total of 125 births. This upward trend continued into 2022 with another record-breaking year.
In total, from 1915 to 2023, there have been 1,103 births registered as Alder in the United States. This statistic underscores the growing appeal of this distinctive name among American parents.