Alphonso is a name of Italian origin, derived from the Latin "Albius," which means "white." This name has been popular throughout history and has been borne by several notable figures.
The name Alphonso was first used as a given name in the Middle Ages, but it was more commonly used as a title or rank. It was often associated with royalty and nobility, particularly in Spain and Italy. The most famous bearer of this name is likely Alfonso X of Castile (also known as "Alfonso the Wise"), who ruled from 1252 to 1284. He was a patron of literature and learning, and his reign saw significant advancements in science, art, and law.
Over time, Alphonso has evolved into a popular given name. It is often associated with warmth and approachability due to its Italian origin, which is known for its vibrant culture and friendly people. In recent years, it has seen a resurgence in popularity, particularly among parents looking for unique yet classic names for their children.
Today, Alphonso is still considered a noble and distinguished name, evoking images of wisdom, leadership, and sophistication. Whether you're drawn to its rich history or its charming sound, choosing Alphonso as a name is sure to make a lasting impression.
The name Alphonso has seen a significant shift in popularity over the past century and a half in the United States. Between 1880 and 2023, there have been a total of 15,148 births with the name Alphonso.
During the late 19th to early 20th centuries, the number of babies named Alphonso was quite low, ranging from just 5 births in 1880 to a peak of 35 births in 1900. However, this trend began to change around the start of World War I.
From 1912 onwards, there was a noticeable increase in the number of newborns named Alphonso, with 69 births recorded that year. This marked the beginning of a period of relative popularity for the name, which continued throughout the 1920s and into the 1930s.
During this time, the number of babies named Alphonso ranged from a low of 90 births in 1994 to a high of 285 births in 1960. The peak year for the name was 1962, with 319 births recorded that year.
However, after the mid-1960s, there was a steady decline in the popularity of the name Alphonso. By the early 1970s, the number of newborns named Alphonso had dropped to around 150 births per year, and this downward trend continued throughout the remainder of the century.
In recent years, the name Alphonso has become quite rare in the United States. Between 2010 and 2023, there were fewer than 40 births with the name each year, with a low of just 18 births recorded in 2021.
Despite this decline in popularity, it is clear that Alphonso has been a name with a long and varied history in the United States. At different points over the past century and a half, it has been both relatively common and quite rare. Regardless of its current popularity, it remains an important part of American naming traditions.