Lynn is a unique and beautiful female given name of Welsh origin. It is derived from the Welsh word "llyn," which means "lake." The name Lynn has been associated with bodies of water throughout history, as many places named after it can be found in Wales, such as Llynnau Mymbyr in Snowdonia National Park.
The use of Lynn as a given name began in the 19th century. It was popularized by American authors who used it in their works, notably by Louisa May Alcott in her novel "Little Women," where one of the characters is named Beth March. Despite its Welsh origin, Lynn became more commonly known and used in English-speaking countries.
The name Lynn has also been associated with other meanings throughout history. In some cultures, it is believed to represent adaptability and fluidity, reflecting the ever-changing nature of water. In others, it is seen as a symbol of serenity and tranquility, echoing the calm surface of a lake.
Today, Lynn remains a popular choice for parents seeking a distinctive yet meaningful name for their daughter. Its association with water and its Welsh heritage add an air of mystery and uniqueness to this beautiful name.
The name Lynn has a rich history of usage in the United States, with its popularity fluctuating over time. In the late 19th century, it was relatively uncommon, with fewer than 10 births each year between 1880 and 1893. However, beginning in 1896, there was a gradual increase in the number of Lynn births annually.
The early 20th century saw a significant rise in popularity for the name Lynn. Between 1914 and 1927, there were over 100 births each year, peaking at 157 in 1928. This trend continued through the 1930s, with record-breaking years such as 1937 (498 births), 1938 (722 births), and 1939 (871 births).
The name Lynn reached its height of popularity during World War II. Between 1941 and 1945, there were over a thousand births each year, with record-breaking years including 1942 (1749 births) and 1944 (2260 births). This trend continued into the post-war era, with Lynn being one of the most popular names in the United States during the late 1940s and early 1950s.
Despite a gradual decline in popularity throughout the latter half of the 20th century, Lynn remained consistently among the top thousand baby girl names in the United States. Between 1960 and 1980, there were over a thousand births each year for girls named Lynn.
In recent years, while Lynn has not been as popular as it once was, it continues to be used with some frequency. In 2020, for example, there were still 79 births of baby girls named Lynn in the United States. Since 1880, a total of 182,253 babies have been born and given the name Lynn. This statistic is a testament to the enduring popularity of this name throughout American history.