Valentine is of Latin origin and means "strong, healthy." It was borne by several early saints, including Valentine of Terni, who was martyred during the Roman Empire. The name gained popularity in England during the Middle Ages and has since become a popular choice for boys worldwide. In literature, it is famously associated with Charles Dickens' character, Frederick Valentines Scrooge.
The name Valentine has seen significant fluctuations in popularity over the years. From just a handful of births per year in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, it peaked around World War I with totals reaching as high as 52 births in 1917. Post-war, the number of Valentines born dropped significantly, remaining relatively low until a resurgence in the mid-20th century. Since then, Valentine has continued to fluctuate but has generally maintained a consistent presence among newborns, with totals ranging from single digits to over 50 births per year in recent years.