Jordan is a popular given name for males that has gained significant recognition in recent years. The name is of Hebrew origin and its meaning is derived from the Hebrew word "yarden," which translates to "flowing down" or "descending." This reference is believed to be connected to the Jordan River, a major geographical feature in the Middle East that flows into the Dead Sea.
The name Jordan has been used throughout history, with notable individuals bearing this name. One of the most famous historical figures named Jordan was Saint Jordan (also known as Jordanus), who was a 12th-century French theologian and philosopher. He is considered one of the major contributors to the development of the University of Paris.
In modern times, the name Jordan has become popular due in part to its widespread use in various cultures and countries around the world. It has been used in numerous languages and variations, including Jordán (Spanish), Giordano (Italian), and Jörgen (Scandinavian). Some famous people named Jordan include Jordan Belfort, the American author and motivational speaker known for his book "The Wolf of Wall Street," and Jordan Barrett, an Australian model.
Overall, the name Jordan is a strong and distinct name that carries a rich history and cultural significance. Its Hebrew origin and biblical associations contribute to its enduring popularity as a given name for males.
The name Jordan has been popular among parents in the United States for over a century, with consistent variations in its popularity throughout the years.
In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the number of births given the name Jordan fluctuated annually between 6 and 31. This period saw a steady increase in the number of Jordans born each year, culminating in 31 births in 1912.
The middle part of the 20th century witnessed a significant rise in the popularity of the name Jordan. In the 1950s, there were over 100 births per year for boys named Jordan, peaking at 207 births in 1957. This trend continued into the 1960s and 1970s, with annual birth counts ranging from around 180 to 368.
The name Jordan reached its zenith in popularity during the late 1970s and early 1980s. Between 1977 and 1982, there were over 1,000 births each year for boys named Jordan, with a high of 4541 births in 1984. This era marked the name Jordan as one of the most popular choices among parents during this time.
However, starting from the mid-1980s, the popularity of the name Jordan began to decline gradually but steadily. By the early 21st century, annual birth counts had fallen below 5,000, reaching a low of 3632 births in 2023.
Throughout its history in the United States, the name Jordan has experienced periods of high and low popularity. Nevertheless, it remains a classic and enduring choice among parents for their sons, with over 394,990 boys being named Jordan since record-keeping began.