Wolfram is a unique and distinctive masculine given name of Germanic origin. It is derived from the Old High German words "wulf" meaning wolf, and "hramn" which translates to raven or crow. Therefore, Wolfram can be interpreted as a combination of these two powerful animals, signifying strength, wisdom, and adaptability.
The name Wolfram has a rich history and has been used throughout the centuries in various Germanic cultures. It was particularly popular among the nobility in medieval Germany, where it was often given to sons born into influential families. One notable figure bearing this name is the 12th-century German knight, Wolfram von Eschenbach, who is famous for his epic poem "Parzival."
In more recent times, the name has gained renewed popularity due to its use in modern literature and pop culture. For instance, Wolfram is the main character in the novel "The Name of the Wind" by Patrick Rothfuss, while it also appears as a supporting character in the TV series "Breaking Bad." Despite these appearances, however, Wolfram remains relatively uncommon, allowing those who bear this name to stand out from the crowd.
In summary, Wolfram is an intriguing and historic masculine given name with roots in Germanic culture. Its meaning, derived from the powerful wolf and raven or crow, conveys strength and wisdom, making it a unique choice for parents seeking something distinctive yet meaningful for their child.
The name Wolfram has been a rare but consistent choice for parents in the United States over the past five decades. According to available data, there have been a total of 53 babies named Wolfram since 1971.
The name's popularity has fluctuated slightly over time. In its earliest years, 1971 and 1972, five boys were named Wolfram each year. There was then a significant gap in the data until 2014 when another boy was named Wolfram.
However, since 2014, the name has seen a resurgence in popularity, with at least five births each year. In fact, the years 2017, 2019, and 2020 all saw eight boys named Wolfram, suggesting that this unique name may be gaining traction among parents looking for something distinctive.
The most recent data available is from 2023, which shows another seven births with the name Wolfram. While these numbers are still quite low compared to more popular names, they demonstrate that Wolfram continues to be a choice for some parents today.
In summary, while not extremely common, the name Wolfram has seen steady, if modest, popularity in the United States over the past 50 years, with a recent uptick in usage.