Canaan, of Hebrew origin, is a unique and historic name that translates to "lowlands" or "valley". It is derived from the ancient region known as Canaan, which was located between the Mediterranean Sea and the Jordan River. This area was significant in biblical history as it was the land promised by God to Abraham and his descendants. The name Canaan gained popularity as a given name in the United States during the late 20th century, likely due to its strong biblical ties. It has since been adopted by various cultures around the world, offering a distinctive and meaningful choice for parents seeking an uncommon yet significant name for their child.
Over time, the name Canaan has seen a significant increase in popularity, with births peaking in recent years. From 1973 to 1980, fewer than 20 babies were named Canaan annually. However, starting in 1981, there was a notable rise, reaching over 50 births per year by the late 1990s. The name's popularity continued to grow into the new millennium, with over 100 Canaan births occurring each year from 2001 onwards. The most recent data shows that in 2023, there were 190 babies named Canaan at birth, indicating sustained popularity for this name. In total, since 1973, there have been 5428 babies named Canaan.