Austin is a popular given name of English origin that has gained significant popularity in recent years. The name Austin originates from the Latin word 'Augustus', which means "great" or "magnificent". It was also used as a surname for people who lived near Augustine's Abbey in Canterbury, England.
The name Austin was first recorded as a given name in England during the Middle Ages, although it was more commonly used as a surname at that time. In the 18th century, Austin began to be used as a given name again, and its popularity has continued to grow ever since. Today, Austin is one of the most popular boys' names in the United States and other English-speaking countries.
Throughout history, several notable individuals have borne the name Austin. These include Austin Clarke, an Irish poet who won the Guinness Poetry Prize in 1954; Austin Osman Spare, an English artist known for his surrealistic paintings; and Austin Powers, a fictional character created by Mike Myers that has become a popular cultural icon.
Overall, Austin is a strong and distinctive name with a rich history behind it. Its meaning of "great" or "magnificent" makes it a fitting choice for parents looking to give their child a powerful and meaningful name.
The given statistics show the annual number of births with the name Austin over a span of nearly 140 years, from 1880 to 2023. The data indicates a significant increase in the popularity of the name Austin starting around the late 1970s and reaching its peak in the mid-1990s, with a total of over 431,550 births recorded during this period. After the peak, the number of newborn boys named Austin has gradually decreased but remains relatively stable, with an average of around 3,500 births per year from 2016 to 2023.