Princeton is an uncommon yet distinctive masculine given name of American origin. It is derived from the borough of Princeton in New Jersey, which was founded by William Penn in 1682 and named after Prince John Frederick Lewis, Prince of Wales at that time.
The meaning behind the name Princeton is not explicitly defined, but it is often associated with the principles and values of higher education, as the prestigious Ivy League university, Princeton University, is located within this borough. This association has contributed to the name's perception as being intelligent, sophisticated, and refined.
Historically, the name Princeton has been used sparingly compared to other popular American names. According to data from the Social Security Administration, it first appeared in the top 1000 baby boy names list in the United States in the year 2000, reaching its peak popularity in 2006 when it ranked at number 438. Since then, its usage has steadily declined but remains present on name charts.
In popular culture, several notable individuals have carried the name Princeton, including American actor Princeton Gavin Jackson and former professional basketball player Princeton Harmon. These figures have helped to further solidify the name's distinctive identity in American society.
Overall, the name Princeton offers a unique and interesting option for parents seeking an uncommon yet meaningful masculine given name with ties to American history and education. Its association with the prestigious university lends it a sense of intelligence and sophistication, making it an appealing choice for those looking to honor academic achievement or simply provide their child with a distinctive moniker.
"Over the span of these years, Princeton saw a significant increase in annual births, with a notable spike occurring between 2007 and 2014, reaching a peak of 714 births in 2015. However, there's been a recent decline, with 2023 seeing the lowest number of births since 1986."