Fletcher is a name of English origin that has a rich history and an interesting meaning. The name comes from the Old English word "fletchere," which referred to someone who made arrows for archery. In Middle English, the name evolved into "Fletcher" and was used as both a surname and a given name.
The name Fletcher gained popularity during the medieval period in England due to its association with the important role of fletchers in warfare and hunting. These skilled artisans were responsible for crafting arrows with feathers attached for balance and accuracy, a process known as "fletching." As such, the name Fletcher became synonymous with skill, precision, and strength.
Over time, Fletcher transitioned from being primarily a surname to also being used as a given name. Today, Fletcher is still considered a masculine name but has become more unisex in recent years. It has gained popularity among parents who are drawn to its historic roots and unique sound.
Some notable people with the name Fletcher include English footballer Gareth Fletcher, Australian cricketer Tom Fletcher, and American actor Joseph Fletcher. These individuals share a name that carries a sense of heritage, craftsmanship, and resilience.
The statistics provided show the annual births of the name Fletcher in the United States from 1880 to 2023. Over this period, there has been a significant increase in the popularity of the name.
In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the number of babies named Fletcher varied between 20 and 50 each year. However, starting around the 1940s, there was a noticeable rise in the number of newborns given this name, with more than 100 births per year becoming commonplace.
The peak popularity of the name Fletcher occurred in recent years, with over 400 births recorded annually between 2016 and 2023. This represents a significant increase from previous decades, suggesting that the name has gained considerable traction among parents as a popular choice for their children.
In total, there have been 16,339 babies named Fletcher in the United States since 1880. This figure is likely to continue growing as the trend of choosing this name persists.