Gardner is an English surname and given name with a unique history and meaning. The name originates from the Old English word 'gardan', which means 'guardian' or 'protector'. It was commonly used as a occupational name for a guardian or protector, or less frequently as a locational name derived from any of several places in England named Gardner.
The surname Gardner has been recorded since the 13th century, with one of the earliest records being that of William Gardener, who was listed in the Hundred Rolls of 1273 in Cambridgeshire, England. Throughout history, the name has been spelled in various ways, including Gardiner, Gardener, and Gardenour.
Gardner is also a popular given name, particularly in English-speaking countries. It is often chosen for its strong, distinctive sound and its positive connotations of protection and guardianship. Some famous bearers of the name include American actor Gardner Wilkinson and British explorer Captain Robert Falcon Scott, who led two expeditions to the Antarctic.
In literature, Gardner appears as a character in several works, such as 'Gardner's Art Through the Ages' by Fred S. Kleiner and 'The Sun Also Rises' by Ernest Hemingway. These appearances further contribute to the name's visibility and cultural significance.
Overall, Gardner is an interesting and historic name with a meaningful origin. Whether used as a surname or given name, it carries a sense of strength and responsibility, reflecting its original meaning of 'guardian'.
The name Gardner has seen a consistent but low number of births each year in the United States, with only five babies being named Gardner annually since at least 2012. This indicates that the name is quite rare and unique, as it does not appear to have gained significant popularity over time. Despite its rarity, however, the name Gardner has maintained a steady presence among newborns in recent years, showing that there is still some demand for this distinctive moniker.