Avery is a name of English origin that has gained significant popularity in recent years. Its original meaning is derived from the Old English word "æfre," which means "elf counsel" or "elf advice." This suggests that the name Avery may have been given to someone who was considered wise or knowledgeable beyond their years, much like an elf from folklore.
The use of the name Avery can be traced back to medieval England, where it was used as a surname. It was initially used to describe someone who lived near an area of groves or elms, as "æfre" also means "elm tree." Over time, Avery evolved from a surname to a given name, and its popularity has continued to grow in the United States and other English-speaking countries.
In literature, one notable figure named Avery is Edgar Allan Poe's character in his 1843 poem "The Raven," although it is important to note that this character is not based on the true origin or meaning of the name Avery. Despite this association, Avery remains a name that is often associated with intelligence, wit, and creativity.
Today, Avery is used as both a male and female given name, although it is more commonly found among females in the United States. It has also gained popularity as a middle name for both boys and girls. Overall, Avery is a unique and interesting name with a rich history that continues to captivate parents and enthusiasts alike.
The name Avery has seen a significant rise in popularity over the past century in the United States. According to available data, there were only 6 births with the name Avery each year from 1890 to 1903. However, starting in 1910, the number of babies named Avery began to increase steadily.
In 1926, there were 20 births with the name Avery, marking a notable increase compared to previous years. The trend continued, with fluctuations, reaching 14 births in 1936 and then declining again.
The real surge in popularity for the name Avery came in the late 1940s and early 1950s. In 1955, there were 22 births with the name Avery, and this number continued to rise throughout the decade. The highest point was reached in 1958 with 25 births.
After a brief decline in the late 1960s and early 1970s, Avery's popularity began to rise again in the mid-1970s, reaching 27 births in 1974. This upward trend continued until the late 1980s, with significant increases each year.
In 1986, there were 101 births with the name Avery, and this number more than doubled to 250 births by 1990. The most recent data shows that in 2023, there were approximately 5859 babies named Avery, demonstrating the enduring popularity of this name.
Over the past century, the total number of births with the name Avery in the United States has reached an impressive figure of over 159,000. This statistic highlights the consistent and growing appeal of the name Avery among parents across America.