Dover is a unique and uncommon given name of English origin. It is derived from the surname Dover, which in turn is derived from the place name Dover, located in Kent, England. The name Dover itself means "from the hill or waterside settlement."
The name Dover has a rich history dating back to the Iron Age. The area now known as Dover was first inhabited by Celtic tribes who called it "Dubris." Later, during the Roman occupation of Britain, the name was Latinized to "Portus Dubris," which translates to "port of Dubris." This name likely referred to the city's strategic location on the English Channel and its importance as a port town.
After the fall of the Roman Empire, Dover continued to be an important settlement under Anglo-Saxon control. The name evolved once again, this time becoming "Dover" in Old English. Over time, the name became associated with various historic events and figures, such as the Battle of Dover in 1097 during which William II invaded France.
While Dover has traditionally been used primarily as a surname, it has become increasingly popular as a given name for boys in recent years. Its unique sound and rich historical significance make it an appealing choice for parents looking for a distinctive name for their child. However, it is still relatively uncommon, making it a great option for those who wish to give their child a name that stands out without being overly trendy.
Overall, Dover is a fascinating name with a long history and meaningful origin. Whether used as a given name or surname, it carries the weight of centuries of significance and cultural relevance.
Based on the statistics provided, the name Dover has seen a varied trend of popularity in the United States over the years. Between 1914 and 2022, there were a total of 140 babies born with the name Dover.
The peak years for the name Dover appear to be between 1917 and 1922, during which time there were more than 10 births each year. The highest number of births recorded was in 1922, with 13 newborns named Dover.
After this peak period, the popularity of the name Dover began to decline. Between 1924 and 1963, there were only five years where more than five babies were named Dover each year. However, it is interesting to note that even in recent times, as late as 2022, there were still five babies born with the name Dover.
Overall, while the name Dover may not have been consistently popular throughout history, its usage has remained steady over time, with a total of 140 births recorded over nearly a century. This can be considered quite remarkable for a name that is not among the most common in the United States.