Garland is a unique and distinctive given name of American origin. It is derived from the English word "garland," which refers to a circle or wreath of flowers or greenery worn as an ornament, often around the head or neck. The name Garland has been used historically in reference to the practice of wearing such adornments during celebrations and festivals.
The name Garland first gained prominence in the United States during the late 19th century and early 20th century. It was particularly popular among families in the Southern states, where it was often given as a middle or baptismal name. However, its usage has been relatively rare compared to other names, which may contribute to its unique and distinctive sound.
In literature and pop culture, the name Garland has been associated with several notable figures. One of the most famous bearers of this name is American actor Christopher Garland, who was known for his roles in films such as "The Graduate" and "Easy Rider." Additionally, singer and actress Garland Focker gained fame for her role in the comedy film series "Meet the Parents."
Overall, the name Garland is an uncommon yet intriguing choice with a distinct American heritage. Its association with festive adornments gives it a celebratory and joyous connotation, making it a fitting option for parents looking for a unique and memorable name for their child.
Based on the provided statistics, the name Garland has had varying popularity over the years in the United States, with a total of 855 births recorded between 1897 and 2023.
The name's peak popularity occurred in 1915, with 22 births that year. This was followed by another significant spike in 1925, with 25 births. These years marked the highest occurrences of the name Garland during this period.
However, there were several years where the name fell out of favor, with only a single-digit number of births recorded. For instance, between 1936 and 1940, there were fewer than 10 births each year. This trend continued intermittently throughout the decades, with some years seeing as few as five births (e.g., 1957, 1965, 1967, 1970).
More recently, between 2008 and 2023, there were five to nine Garland births each year, indicating a modest level of popularity for the name during this period.
In summary, while the name Garland has had its moments of popularity throughout history, it has generally been used sparingly in the United States. Its usage has remained relatively stable in recent years, with a handful of births occurring annually.