Foster is a surname of English origin that has become increasingly popular as a given name in recent years. The name is derived from the Old English word "fostor," which means "nourisher" or "feeder." This term was used to refer to a person who provided food and shelter for others, often in exchange for labor or service.
In medieval England, the surname Foster was typically given to individuals who were responsible for caring for and feeding young children whose parents had died or were unable to care for them. These foster parents would take in these children and raise them as their own until they were old enough to leave home and make a living on their own.
Over time, the name Foster has evolved to become associated with several different meanings and interpretations. Some people believe that it represents nurturing, support, and protection, while others see it as a symbol of growth, development, and transformation.
In literature and popular culture, Foster has been used as a character name in numerous works, including the novel "The Foster Portfolio" by Philip Roth and the television series "Foster's Home for Imaginary Friends." These uses have helped to further popularize the name and contribute to its modern-day popularity.
Today, Foster is a unisex given name that continues to gain traction among parents seeking unique and meaningful names for their children. Whether you're drawn to the historic significance of the name or its contemporary appeal, choosing Foster as your child's name is sure to make them stand out from the crowd while also bestowing upon them a rich and meaningful moniker with deep roots in English history.
The name Foster has seen a significant increase in popularity over the past century in the United States, according to the statistics provided.
In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the number of births with the name Foster fluctuated between 16 and 138 per year. However, starting from the 1940s, there was a steady increase in the popularity of the name. In 1947, there were 122 births with the name Foster, marking the beginning of a consistent rise in its usage.
By the 1960s and 1970s, the number of babies named Foster remained relatively low, ranging between 26 and 58 births per year. However, starting from the 1980s, there was another notable increase in the popularity of the name. In 1987, there were 41 births with the name Foster, and this number continued to rise throughout the decade.
The 1990s saw a significant spike in the usage of the name Foster, with the number of births reaching as high as 230 per year by the end of the century. This trend has continued into the 21st century, with over 200 births with the name Foster recorded every year since 2011.
As of 2023, the total number of births with the name Foster in the United States stands at an impressive 12,652. This represents a substantial increase from the late 19th and early 20th centuries, indicating that the name Foster has gained significant popularity over time.
Despite its initial low usage, the name Foster has become more popular in recent decades, likely due to its unique sound and historical significance. Its consistent rise in popularity demonstrates that it is a timeless choice for parents looking for an uncommon yet meaningful name for their child.