Baird is a name of Scottish origin, derived from the Old Gaelic word "barra," which means "fair-haired." It was traditionally used as both a given name and a surname for people with fair hair or light complexion.
The name Baird has a long history in Scotland, dating back to at least the 13th century. Records show that it was borne by several notable figures throughout Scottish history. One of the earliest known bearers of the name was Thomas Baird, who served as an ambassador for King Robert Bruce during his negotiations with England.
In more recent times, the name Baird has been associated with various fields and professions. For instance, it is shared by several prominent scientists, including Alexander Graham Baird, a noted evolutionary biologist, and William Baird, a pioneer in the field of electrical engineering.
Additionally, the name Baird has also gained some recognition within the arts community. For example, it is borne by Scottish playwright and poet John Baird, as well as American composer John Baird.
Overall, Baird is a unique yet historically significant name with a rich heritage that spans centuries and continents. Its meaning adds to its charm, making it an appealing choice for parents looking for a distinctive name for their child.
The name Baird has been a somewhat rare but consistent choice for parents in the United States over the past century, with a total of 463 births recorded since 1915. The name's popularity has fluctuated over time, with some years seeing more than ten births and others seeing fewer than five.
The most popular decade for the name Baird was the 1950s, with a total of 48 births recorded between 1950 and 1959. The peak year for the name was 1957, with an impressive 17 babies given the name Baird.
Despite its ups and downs in popularity, the name Baird has maintained a steady presence in the United States throughout the decades. For instance, there were at least five births recorded each decade from the 1920s to the 1960s, with the exception of the 1930s, which saw only four.
In recent years, the name Baird has seen a resurgence in popularity. After dipping to as low as five births per year in the early 2000s, the number of babies named Baird began to rise again around 2008, reaching double digits in 2017 with 11 births recorded that year.
Overall, while not one of the most popular names in American history, Baird has nonetheless been a enduring choice for parents looking for a unique and memorable name for their children.