Norman, also spelled as Norman or Norma, is a unisex given name of Norman origin. It was initially popularized by the famous Viking leader, Rollo, who became the first Duke of Normandy in the 10th century. The name Norman is derived from the Old Germanic elements 'North' meaning 'north' and 'mann' meaning 'man', thus translating to 'northerner'. Historically, it was often used to denote individuals from Normandy or those with northern European ancestry.
In the English-speaking world, the name Norman gained prominence during the Middle Ages due to the influence of the Normans in British history. It has since been associated with notable figures such as Norman Schwarzkopf Jr., a United States Army General known for his leadership during Operation Desert Storm, and Norman Rockwell, an iconic American painter renowned for his works on nationalistic themes.
The name Norman is also celebrated worldwide, with variations and derivatives like Normando in Italian, Normand in French, and Normann in German. While it has traditionally been considered a male name, its use as a female given name has become more common in recent years, particularly among Scandinavian countries.
Today, the name Norman continues to evoke images of strength, leadership, and historical significance. It is a timeless choice for parents seeking a classic yet distinctive name for their child.
The name Norman experienced fluctuations in popularity during the given years, with peak years being 1923 (11 births) and 1930 (14 births). However, it appears that after the 1930s, the name's usage declined significantly, with fewer than 10 births per year from 1937 onwards. The total number of Norman births during this period was 263.