Balthazar is a unique and intriguing name of Latin origin. It is derived from the Late Latin word "balthazaris," which means "Babylonian" or "of Babylon." This name has a rich history that dates back to ancient times.
In the biblical story, Balthazar was one of the three wise men who brought gifts to baby Jesus. He was also known as King of Arabia. The name became popular in Europe during the Middle Ages and was often used as a given name or a title for nobility.
Balthazar has also been associated with various historical figures throughout history. For instance, Baltasar Gracián y Morales was a Spanish Baroque writer who is famous for his novel "The Art of Worldly Wisdom." Additionally, there have been several saints named Balthazar, including Saint Balthazar of Ravenna and Saint Balthazar the Abbot.
Today, Balthazar remains a distinctive name that is often associated with wisdom, royalty, and culture. Despite its historical significance, it continues to be relatively uncommon, making it an excellent choice for parents looking for a unique and meaningful name for their child.
The name Baltazar experienced significant fluctuations in popularity over the past century, with a total of 2654 births recorded between 1915 and 2023. The name's peak occurred around the late 1980s to early 1990s, with years like 1987 (34 births), 1988-1989 (both 42 births), and 1990 (50 births) showing particularly high numbers. However, it has since declined in usage, with the most recent years (2020-2023) seeing fewer than 40 births each year.