Gillette is a surname of English origin, derived from the Middle English word "Gil" meaning "bright or shining." The name was originally given to someone with bright hair or fair complexion. It was also used as a nickname for a cheerful and lively person.
The Gillette family has a long history in England, dating back to at least the 12th century. Records show that the surname was first found in Worcestershire, where they held lands and estates. The family later spread to other parts of England, including Yorkshire, Lincolnshire, and Kent.
One notable member of the Gillette family is King Edward III's wife, Philippa of Hainault, who was born in Guelders, Belgium. Her father was Count William II of Hainault, and her mother was Jeanne of Valois, a daughter of King Charles V of France.
The Gillette surname has also been associated with several notable individuals throughout history. For example, Thomas Gillett (1657-1724) was an English clergyman who served as Bishop of Chichester from 1708 until his death. Another notable member of the family is Sir Arthur Gillette (1836-1914), a British army officer and politician who served as Member of Parliament for North Manchester from 1885 to 1892.
In America, the Gillette surname became well-known thanks to King Gillette (1855-1932), an American businessman who founded the Gillette Safety Razor Company in 1901. He invented the disposable razor blade and revolutionized the shaving industry with his innovative products.
Today, the Gillette surname continues to be carried by people around the world, many of whom are proud of their English heritage and family history. Whether they're descended from medieval nobles or modern-day entrepreneurs, those who bear the name Gillette carry with them a rich legacy of achievement and innovation.
Statistics on the given name Gillette show that it has maintained a consistent presence in the United States over time. In fact, according to available records, there were five babies named Gillette born each year in both 1921 and 1960. This indicates that while the name may not have been extremely popular during these specific periods, it was still being chosen by parents for their children.
It's worth noting that over this 39-year span between 1921 and 1960, a total of ten babies were named Gillette. This demonstrates how names can fluctuate in popularity from year to year and decade to decade. However, even when the name isn't trendy, some parents still choose it for their children due to its uniqueness or personal significance.
In conclusion, although not widely used, the name Gillette has had a steady presence in the United States over time, with five births recorded each year in 1921 and 1960.