Raven is a unique and distinctive given name of American origin. It is derived from the Old English word "raven," which refers to the large, black bird known for its intelligence and adaptability.
The name Raven has gained popularity in recent years, particularly among parents who are drawn to its powerful and mystical associations. In many cultures around the world, ravens are considered symbols of wisdom, transformation, and creativity. They are often associated with ancient myths and legends, such as those found in Norse mythology, where Odin, the god of war and wisdom, had two ravens named Huginn and Muninn who flew out each day to gather information and report back to him.
Despite its origins, Raven is not a traditional or historical name. It was relatively unknown until it began to gain popularity in the mid-20th century. Today, however, Raven has become increasingly common as a given name for both boys and girls. According to data from the Social Security Administration, Raven was among the top 1,000 names for both sexes in the United States between 2005 and 2014.
Overall, Raven is a captivating and meaningful name choice that carries with it a rich history of cultural symbolism and mythology. Whether inspired by the intelligence and adaptability of the bird or the ancient myths associated with its name, parents who choose Raven for their child are selecting a powerful and unique moniker that will stand out for years to come.
The name Raven has seen a significant rise and fall in popularity over the years, with a marked increase from the late 1970s onwards. Between 1941 and 1965, the number of annual births named Raven fluctuated between 5 and 22, reaching a peak in 1966. However, starting from 1967, there was a steady increase, with a significant jump in 1976 to 100 births, followed by a surge in the late 1980s and early 1990s, reaching over 2000 births annually between 1990 and 1994. The popularity of the name Raven has continued to fluctuate since then, with peaks in recent years such as 841 births in 2023. In total, there have been 43309 births named Raven from 1941 to 2023.