Peggysue is a unique and distinctive given name that has gained popularity in recent years, particularly in English-speaking countries such as the United States and Canada. However, its origins and meaning are not widely known or understood.
The name Peggysue is believed to have been coined by American author and humorist Mark Twain in the late 19th century. It is a compound of two names: Peggy, which is a diminutive form of Margaret, meaning "pearl" in Latin; and Sue, short for Susan, also meaning "lily" or "rose" depending on its origin. Therefore, Peggysue could be interpreted as meaning something like "pearl lily," although this interpretation is not universally accepted.
Despite its possible derivation from two well-known names, Peggysue itself is relatively rare and unique. It does not appear in any of the major reference works on names, such as the Oxford Dictionary of Names or Behind the Name, nor is it listed among the Social Security Administration's top baby names in the United States.
The name Peggysue has gained some visibility through its use by celebrities, most notably actress and singer Peggy Sue Gerron, who was the inspiration for Buddy Holly's song "Peggy Sue." However, this has not been enough to make it a popular choice for parents naming their daughters.
In conclusion, Peggysue is a rare and distinctive given name that appears to have originated with Mark Twain in the late 19th century. Its meaning can be interpreted as "pearl lily," although this is not universally accepted. Despite its celebrity associations, Peggysue remains relatively unknown and underused as a baby name today.
Peggysue is a unique and distinctive name that has seen varying levels of popularity over the years in the United States. According to the available statistics, the name Peggysue first appeared in the U.S. baby name data in 1958 with seven births recorded for that year.
The name's popularity peaked in the early 1960s, with six births each year from 1961 to 1964. This indicates a consistent and steady interest in the name during this period.
After 1964, there was a slight decline in the number of babies named Peggysue, with five births recorded in both 1965 and 1967. However, the popularity of the name rebounded somewhat in 1968 and 1972, with five births each year.
Overall, between 1958 and 1972, there were a total of 54 babies named Peggysue born in the United States. This unique and memorable name has left its mark on American naming trends over the years, albeit in small numbers.