Portland is a unique and distinctive given name of English origin. It is derived from the Old English words "port" meaning harbor or trading center, and "land" signifying land or territory. Therefore, Portland translates to "land by the port."
The name Portland has a rich history dating back to the Middle Ages. In England, it was first used as a place name for various settlements located near harbors or along rivers. One of the most well-known places named Portland is the city of Portland in Dorset county on the southern coast of England.
In the United States, Portland became popularized as a given name during the Victorian era in the late 19th century. It was often chosen by parents who appreciated its strong and distinctive sound, as well as its connection to the vibrant and innovative spirit of the American Northwest. Today, Portland remains a unique and uncommon given name for both boys and girls.
Overall, Portland is an interesting and unusual given name with a rich history rooted in Old English geography. Its meaning and origin make it a fitting choice for parents looking for a distinctive and meaningful name for their child.
The given statistics illustrate the fluctuating popularity of the name Portland over time in the United States. Between 1958 and 2023, there were a total of 158 babies named Portland.
The peak years for this name appear to be the mid-1960s, with a high of 13 births in 1964, followed by another peak in recent years with 13 births in 2019 and 12 births in 2022. It's interesting to note that there was also a significant increase in the number of babies named Portland in 2021, with 11 births recorded that year.
However, the popularity of this name has not been consistent throughout these years. There have been several years where only five or six babies were named Portland, such as in 1958, 1959, and 2023. The most recent data from 2023 shows a decrease in popularity once again, with only five births recorded.
Despite these fluctuations, the name Portland has maintained a presence among baby names in the United States over the past six decades. It will be interesting to see if this trend continues and whether there is another peak in popularity for this name in the coming years.