Robert is a name of Germanic origin, derived from the Old German words "Hrod" meaning fame and "bert" meaning bright or shining. Therefore, Robert means "bright with fame" or "famous with bright."
The name Robert has been popular throughout history, particularly in Europe. It was borne by several notable figures, such as Saint Robert of Molesme, the founder of the Cistercian order, and Robert the Bruce, the king of Scotland who defeated the English at the Battle of Bannockburn.
In literature, Robert appears prominently in works like "Robert's Rules of Order," a widely used manual for parliamentary procedure, and as the main character in Robert Louis Stevenson's classic novel "Treasure Island."
Today, Robert remains a popular name around the world. According to various sources, it is among the top 500 names worldwide and consistently ranks within the top 1000 baby boy names in many countries including the United States, Canada, Australia, and several European nations.
In terms of its usage over time, Robert's popularity has waxed and waned. It was particularly popular during the late 19th to early mid-20th century but fell out of favor later on. However, it has seen a resurgence in recent years, indicating that this classic name continues to appeal to parents even today.
Overall, Robert is a strong, traditional name with a rich historical and cultural legacy, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a timeless and meaningful moniker.
The name Robert has been a popular choice among parents in the United States over the past century, with a total of 945 babies given this name between 1916 and 1993.
The number of births per year varied greatly during this period. The name's popularity peaked in the late 1940s and early 1950s, with 17 births in both 1947 and 1954. This was followed by a decline in popularity in the mid to late 1950s, with only five births recorded in 1955.
Interestingly, the name Robert experienced several periods of resurgence throughout the latter half of the century. In the 1960s and 70s, the number of babies named Robert fluctuated between 10 and 26 births per year. This trend continued into the 80s and early 90s, with peaks in 1986 (26 births) and a slight dip in recent years, with only five births recorded in both 1991 and 1993.
Overall, these statistics show that while Robert may not have been the most popular name of all time in the United States, it has consistently been chosen by parents for their sons over many decades. Its enduring appeal can be seen in its ability to withstand fluctuations in popularity and maintain a steady presence among baby names year after year.