Bonnie is a name of Scottish origin that has gained popularity worldwide. It comes from the Scots word 'bonnie', which means 'pretty' or 'attractive'. The name Bonnie was popularized by Robert Burns, the renowned Scottish poet, who used it in his poem "The Bonnie Banks o' Loch Lomond". In this poem, the phrase 'Bonnie banks' refers to the beautiful shores of Loch Lomond.
The use of Bonnie as a given name is relatively modern. It first started appearing in the U.S. Social Security data in the early 20th century and became more popular in the mid-century. Today, it's considered a classic yet unique name for girls, appealing to parents who appreciate its Scottish roots and charming meaning.
While Bonnie is traditionally a female name, there are instances where it has been used for males as well, particularly in Scotland. However, it remains predominantly associated with females. Some notable figures named Bonnie include Bonnie Parker of the notorious criminal duo Bonnie and Clyde, and Bonnie Raitt, an American blues musician. Despite its association with these historical figures, the name Bonnie stands independently as a beautiful and meaningful name choice for a child.
In conclusion, Bonnie is a Scottish name that carries a charming meaning. With its rich history rooted in Scottish literature and culture, it's no surprise why many parents are drawn to this name for their daughters. Its unique yet classic sound makes it a timeless choice that will never go out of style.
The statistics show a significant rise in the number of girls named Bonnie from just 14 births in 1880 to a peak of 604 births in 2021. The name's popularity began to grow noticeably around the early 1900s, with a substantial increase from 374 births in 1909 to 539 births in 1912. After peaking at 2532 births in 1925, the popularity of the name Bonnie started to decline, reaching its lowest point in recent times with 168 births in 2007. However, it has since seen a resurgence, with over 400 births per year from 2017 onwards.