The name Fortune is of Latin origin and means "luck" or "good fortune." It is derived from the Latin word "fortuna," which was also used to refer to the Roman goddess of luck, prosperity, and chance.
The use of Fortune as a given name is relatively rare compared to other names. Its popularity has waxed and waned throughout history, with periods of heightened usage in the Middle Ages and during the Renaissance. However, it has never been among the most common names chosen by parents for their children.
Despite its rarity, Fortune has been borne by several notable individuals throughout history. One of the most famous bearers of this name was Fortune de Fonzac, a French writer and scholar who lived in the 17th century. He was known for his works on heraldry and genealogy, as well as his writings on various other subjects.
In literature, Fortune has also made appearances as a character's name. For example, in William Shakespeare's play "Cymbeline," one of the main characters is named Fortunatus, which is another form of the name Fortune. This character is a loyal servant who remains true to his master despite facing numerous challenges and hardships.
In modern times, Fortune continues to be used as both a given name and a surname. However, it remains relatively uncommon compared to other names, perhaps due in part to its unique meaning and sound. Nevertheless, those who bear this name may take pride in knowing that they carry the spirit of good luck and prosperity with them wherever they go.
In conclusion, Fortune is an unusual yet meaningful name with roots in Latin language and culture. While it has not been widely used throughout history, there are several notable individuals who have carried this name, both in real life and in literature. Whether used as a given name or surname, Fortune carries the power of luck and good fortune with it.
Based on the statistics provided, it appears that the name Fortune has had a varied history of popularity among parents in the United States over the past century.
Looking at the data year by year, we can see that there were no more than eight births per year with the name Fortune for most of the period from 1915 to 2004. However, starting around 2005, the number of births with this name began to increase gradually, reaching a peak of 14 births in 2021 and 12 births each in both 2022 and 2023.
This recent trend suggests that Fortune has been gaining popularity among parents in the United States in recent years. While it is still not one of the most popular baby names, its increasing frequency indicates that it may be considered a unique and appealing choice by many families. As with any name, its ultimate success will depend on whether parents continue to find it appealing for their children in the coming years.