All about the name BEULAH

Meaning, origin, history.

Beulah is a unique and uncommon female given name of Hebrew origin. It means "married woman" or "wedded wife." The name was popularized by the 19th-century poet, John Greenleaf Whittier, who used it in his long poem "The Bride of Lebanon." In the poem, Beulah is a symbolic figure representing the ideal Christian wife and mother.

Before Whittier's work, Beulah was not widely known or used as a given name. It appeared occasionally in literature and religious contexts, often referring to the biblical land of Beulah, which is described in Isaiah 62:4 as a place of joy and gladness. However, it wasn't until Whittier's poem that Beulah began to gain recognition as a personal name.

In recent years, Beulah has seen limited use as a given name but remains relatively rare compared to other names. Despite its rarity, the name Beulah carries a unique and poetic history, making it an attractive choice for parents looking for an uncommon yet meaningful name for their daughter.

Popularity of the name BEULAH since 1880.

Number of births per year since 1880.

The name Beulah has seen a significant decrease in popularity over the past century in the United States. According to the provided statistics, it peaked in popularity around 1915 with 2,401 births that year. However, it quickly declined thereafter, reaching its lowest point in recent years with only 9 births in 2022.

From the peak of popularity in 1915 until the turn of the century, Beulah remained relatively stable, with an average of around 30 to 60 births per year. However, from the early 2000s onwards, its popularity has continued to decline, with fewer than 20 births recorded each year since 2001.

Despite this decline in popularity, Beulah remains a unique and historic name with a rich heritage. Its usage as a given name dates back to at least the 19th century, and it was particularly popular during the early 20th century. Although it may not be as common today, Beulah still holds significance for many families who choose this timeless name for their children.

In conclusion, while the popularity of the name Beulah has waned over time in the United States, it remains a distinctive and noteworthy choice with a storied history. Those who bear this name are part of a select group that spans generations, from the late 19th to the early 21st century.