Elmore is a unique and distinctive given name of English origin. Its meaning and history are rooted in the English language and culture.
The name Elmore is derived from two Old English elements: "ælf" which means elf, and "mær" which means famous or renowned. Therefore, the name Elmore can be interpreted as "famous elf," although it's important to note that this interpretation is not universally accepted and may vary among different sources.
There is no definitive record of when the name Elmore first appeared, but it is believed to have originated in England during the Middle Ages. It was likely given to children born into families with connections to Elfric, a 10th-century English abbot and bishop who was known for his scholarship and learning.
Throughout history, there have been several notable individuals named Elmore. One of the most well-known is Elmore James, an American blues musician who was active during the 1950s and 1960s. He was a highly influential figure in the development of electric blues guitar playing and left a lasting impact on popular music.
Today, Elmore remains a rare and uncommon given name, but its unique sound and historical significance make it an attractive choice for parents seeking to give their child a distinctive and meaningful name. While it may not be as widely used as some other names, those who bear the name Elmore are likely to stand out due to its rarity and rich history.
The name Elmore experienced significant fluctuations in popularity over the years, with a peak of 119 births in 1915 and a decline to as low as 5 births in several recent years (2002, 2004, 2005, 2021). Between 1880 and 1967, the name's popularity was relatively stable, with an average of around 15 births per year. However, it began to decline significantly after 1967, falling below an average of 10 births per year from 1972 onwards. In recent decades, Elmore has become quite rare, with fewer than 10 births recorded each year since 1985.