Jaylynn is a unique and captivating name of Native American origin. It is derived from the Choctaw word "Chalika", which means "leaping waters". The name Jaylynn is believed to have been coined by the famous author, Tony Hillerman, who used it in his popular mystery novel series set in the Southwest United States.
The name Jaylynn has gained popularity over the years, particularly among parents seeking distinctive and meaningful names for their children. Its Native American origin adds a touch of exoticism and intrigue, while its meaning conveys a sense of vitality and fluidity. The name's pronunciation, which rhymes with " Jillian", makes it easy to remember and pronounce.
In terms of history, the name Jaylynn has been associated with strong female characters in literature and popular culture. As mentioned earlier, Tony Hillerman introduced this name through his protagonist, Officer Jaylynn Chee, a Navajo police officer in his Joe Leaphorn and Jim Chee mystery series. This character helped to bring attention to Native American culture and issues, as well as showcasing the intelligence, courage, and determination of women in law enforcement.
While Jaylynn is not one of the most popular names globally, its unique origin and captivating meaning have contributed to its growing appeal among parents seeking distinctive and meaningful names for their children. Those who choose this name often appreciate its connection to Native American culture and its evocative meaning. Ultimately, Jaylynn is a powerful and intriguing name that stands out from the crowd and has a compelling story behind it.
The name Jaylynn has seen a significant increase in popularity over the past few decades in the United States. In the early years recorded, there were only a handful of births each year with this name. Between 1963 and 1985, there were less than 10 births per year on average.
However, starting from 1987, the number of annual births with the name Jaylynn began to rise steadily. By 1993, there were already 40 births, more than double the average of the previous decades. This trend continued throughout the 1990s and early 2000s, reaching a peak in 2007 with 569 births.
The popularity of Jaylynn seemed to plateau around this time, fluctuating between 400 and 600 births per year until around 2013. Since then, the number of annual births has been declining steadily, reaching 102 in 2023.
In total, over the past 59 years recorded, there have been 9,139 births with the name Jaylynn in the United States. Despite the recent decline in popularity, it is clear that this name has been widely used and continues to be a popular choice among parents.