Kingston is a name of English origin that has been popular for centuries. It derives from the Old English word 'cyng' meaning king and 'tun' meaning settlement or town. Therefore, Kingston translates to "king's town" or "king's settlement."
The name Kingston gained prominence during the Middle Ages in England, particularly with the establishment of Kingston upon Thames as a market town and royal residence near London. Over time, the name became associated with various locations around the world, including Jamaica's capital city, Kingston.
Throughout history, several notable individuals have carried the name Kingston. One famous bearer is Henry kineticon (1235-1267), who was an English bishop and statesman during the 13th century. He served as Lord Chancellor of England under King Henry III.
Despite its royal connotations, Kingston remains a versatile name that can be used for both boys and girls. It has been popular in various English-speaking countries, with notable spikes in usage during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Today, Kingston continues to be a beloved choice among parents seeking unique yet timeless names for their children.
In summary, Kingston is an English name with historical significance, deriving from Old English words meaning "king's town" or "king's settlement." Its popularity has waxed and waned over the centuries, with notable bearers including Bishop Henry Kingston. Although it shares royal undertones, Kingston remains a gender-neutral option for parents looking for a classic yet distinctive name.
The name Kingston has seen a varied popularity over the years in the United States, with a total of 170 babies given this name between 1995 and 2023.
The name's most popular decade was the 2010s, during which there were 84 births recorded. The peak year for Kingston was 2019, with a notable 16 births that year alone.
However, the popularity of the name has fluctuated significantly over time. For instance, in the late 1990s and early 2000s, there were fewer than 10 babies named Kingston each year. In contrast, the number of annual births with this name increased dramatically during the mid-2010s, peaking at 16 births in 2019 before declining again to just 5 births in 2023.
Despite these fluctuations, it's clear that Kingston remains a unique and memorable name choice for parents in the United States. Its popularity has ebbed and flowed over time, but with a total of 170 babies sharing this name since 1995, it's evident that many families have been drawn to its distinctive sound and meaning.