The name Blas is of Spanish and Basque origin, derived from the Latin word "Blasius." This name has a rich history dating back to ancient times.
In the Roman Empire, there was a Christian martyr named Saint Blaise, who was born in Armenia around the 4th century AD. He became known as one of the Fourteen Holy Helpers, saints invoked during times of pestilence and illness. Legend has it that Saint Blaise was persecuted by the pagan authorities for converting people to Christianity. During his imprisonment, he cured a boy who had been choking on a fish bone. This miracle earned him the patronage of those suffering from throat ailments.
The name Blas gained popularity in Spain due to the veneration of Saint Blaise, particularly among families with children named after him as a protector against sore throats and diseases like measles. In Basque culture, the name Blas is also well-regarded, often given to children born around the saint's feast day on February 3rd.
The meaning behind the name Blas remains somewhat uncertain, although some sources suggest it may be related to the Latin word "blasis," which means "stutterer" or "speech impediment." However, this etymology is not universally accepted. Regardless of its exact origin, the name Blas has been widely used in Spain and other Spanish-speaking countries throughout history.
Today, Blas continues to be a popular choice among parents looking for unique yet meaningful names for their children. Its rich historical significance and distinctive sound make it an appealing option for those interested in names with deep roots and cultural relevance.
Based on the provided statistics, the name Blas has seen varied popularity over the years in the United States, with a total of 2892 births recorded from 1880 to 2023.
The name's peak popularity occurred during the 1946-1959 period, with a high of 39 births in 1951. However, it has remained relatively consistent throughout the century, with fluctuations ranging from a low of 6 births in 1880 to a high of 43 births in 1988.
In recent years, Blas's popularity has seen a decline, with only 19 births recorded in 2023. Despite this decrease, it is still chosen for some newborns each year, indicating that the name continues to have some level of appeal among parents in the United States.