Ivory is an uncommon and distinctive female given name of English origin. It is derived from the word 'ivory', which refers to the hard, white material made from the tusks of elephants or other animals. The term 'ivory' comes from the Old French word 'ivre', meaning 'ivory'. In turn, this word is believed to have been borrowed from the Italian 'avorio', which also means 'ivory'.
The name Ivory has not traditionally been associated with any specific historical figures or legendary characters. However, its uniqueness and elegance make it an attractive choice for parents looking for a distinctive name for their daughter.
In terms of popularity, Ivory is relatively rare. In the United States, for example, it has never appeared in the top 1000 names for girls since record-keeping began in the late 19th century. This rarity can contribute to its allure and make it a striking choice for parents who wish their daughter's name to be distinctive.
Overall, Ivory is an elegant and unusual female given name with an intriguing origin and no traditional historical associations. Its uniqueness makes it a notable choice for parents seeking a memorable name for their daughter.
The name Ivory has been given to a total of 8,503 babies born in the United States since 1880. The number of births with this name has varied over time, with peaks and valleys throughout history.
From 1880 to 1924, there were relatively few births each year, ranging from as low as 5 to a high of 97 in 1928. However, starting in 1924, the number of babies named Ivory began to rise significantly, reaching a peak of 177 births in 1950.
The popularity of the name Ivory continued to fluctuate throughout the mid-20th century. It reached another high point in 1963 with 113 births, but then declined again, falling below 50 births per year starting in 1976.
In recent years, the number of babies named Ivory has remained relatively low and stable. Between 2008 and 2023, there were between 19 and 50 births each year with this name. Despite the fluctuations in popularity over time, Ivory remains a unique and distinct name choice for parents who wish to give their child a distinctive moniker.
In conclusion, while the name Ivory has seen periods of both popularity and obscurity throughout its history in the United States, it continues to be chosen by parents as a meaningful and special name for their children. The statistics demonstrate the ebb and flow of naming trends over time, but also highlight the enduring appeal of this particular name.