Bud is a name of English origin that has been used for both boys and girls in recent years. It is believed to have originated as a nickname or short form of several names, including Bulldogs (for boys) and Buddhas (for girls). The meaning behind the name Bud can vary depending on its origin. If it comes from Bulldog, it could mean "strong" or "powerful," reflecting the aggressive nature of this breed of dog. On the other hand, if it comes from Buddha, it would mean "awakened one" or "enlightened one," referring to the spiritual leader who founded Buddhism.
The name Bud has a rich history that dates back centuries. In medieval times, it was used as a nickname for people with the surname Budd, which derived from Old English words meaning "to bud." This name was also popular among sailors in the 18th and 19th centuries due to its association with good luck and prosperity.
Today, Bud is often associated with various things such as beer (Budweiser), flowers (buds), and even cannabis (bud). While these associations may not directly relate to the name's meaning or history, they have contributed to its unique character and recognition in popular culture. Despite its unconventional origins, Bud remains a distinctive and memorable name that continues to be used today.
Based on the provided statistics, the name Bud has seen a significant rise and fall in popularity over the past century in the United States.
In the late 19th to early 20th centuries, the name Bud was relatively popular, with the number of births per year ranging from a low of 24 in 1902 to a high of 187 in 1926. The peak popularity of the name occurred around 1915-1920, during which time over 150 babies were named Bud each year.
However, starting from the mid-1930s, there was a gradual decline in the usage of the name Bud. By the late 1960s to early 1970s, fewer than 50 babies were being named Bud each year on average. This trend continued into the latter half of the 20th century and even into the 21st century, with the number of births per year fluctuating between 5 and 14.
Despite this decline in popularity, it is interesting to note that there has been a slight resurgence in recent years, with over 10 babies named Bud each year from 2016 to 2023. This suggests that the name may still hold some appeal for parents today.
In total, over the past century (from 1880 to 2023), there have been 9476 births of babies named Bud in the United States. While the popularity of the name has fluctuated significantly over time, it remains a part of American naming history and continues to be used today, albeit less frequently than in the past.