Jennifer is a name of English origin that has gained popularity worldwide over the years. It is derived from the Welsh name Guinevere, which means "fair" or "white." The name Jennifer has been associated with various meanings and interpretations throughout history.
In Arthurian legend, Guinevere was the wife of King Arthur and the lover of Sir Lancelot. She was known for her beauty and grace, which are reflected in the meaning of her name. In Wales, however, the name Guinevere is believed to have come from the Welsh word "gwen," meaning "white" or "fair," suggesting a connection to purity or innocence.
The name Jennifer first gained popularity in England during the Victorian era in the late 19th century. It was initially used as a diminutive of Guinevere but eventually became a popular given name in its own right. In the United States, the name Jennifer reached its peak popularity in the 1970s and 1980s, becoming one of the most common female names during that period.
Today, Jennifer remains a beloved and widely-used name for girls around the world. Its meaning, "fair" or "white," has contributed to its enduring appeal, as many parents continue to choose this name for their daughters in hopes that they will embody the qualities suggested by its meaning. Whether inspired by Arthurian legend or simply drawn to its sound, those who choose the name Jennifer for their child are selecting a name with a rich history and a timeless beauty.
Based on the statistics provided, the name Jenny has seen a significant rise and fall in popularity over the past century in the United States.
From 1880 to around 1950, the number of births with the name Jenny fluctuated between 13 and 660 births per year. During this period, the name reached its peak popularity in 1952 with 777 births.
However, from 1957 onwards, there was a notable increase in the number of girls named Jenny. The highest point was reached in 1972 with 2635 births, indicating that the name was particularly popular during this decade.
After 1972, the popularity of the name Jenny started to decline gradually. By the year 2000, the number of births with the name dropped below 850 per year. This downward trend continued into the 21st century, with only 165 births in 2022 and 174 births in 2023.
Overall, while Jenny was a popular name in the mid-20th century, its popularity has significantly declined in recent years. Despite this decline, it is still chosen for some newborn girls each year.