All about the name

Oscar

Female

« Oscar is a Germanic name meaning "deer spear," popularized by Walter Scott's poem in the 19th century and famously borne by Irish poet Oscar Wilde. »

#33891 over 10 years

Meaning, origin, history

Oscar is a name of Spanish origin, derived from the Germanic name Osarius or Oscan, which means "deer spear" in German. It has also been associated with the Irish name Ossian, which comes from the legendary Gaelic bard Ossian. The name Oscar was first used as a given name in the 19th century, likely inspired by the protagonist of Walter Scott's poem "The Lady of the Lake" (1810), who was named Oscarl. The popularity of the name grew throughout the Victorian era and has remained popular ever since. In the literary world, Oscar Wilde is perhaps the most famous person with this name. He was an Irish poet and playwright known for his wit, flamboyance, and brilliant use of language in works such as "The Picture of Dorian Gray" and "An Ideal Husband." Today, Oscar continues to be a popular choice for parents around the world. It has consistently ranked among the top 1000 names given to baby boys in the United States since the late 19th century. Overall, the name Oscar offers a unique blend of strength, elegance, and historical significance that makes it an appealing option for those looking for a classic yet distinctive name.

In numbers

Popularity of the name Oscar since 1880

Total births
1,070
Total since 1880
Peak year
1994
24 births
in 2015
5
Recent births (5 years)
5-year trend
-100%
vs previous 5 years