Wilder is a unique and distinctive given name of American origin. It is derived from the English surname Wilder, which itself has an interesting history.
The surname Wilder is believed to have originated in England during the Middle Ages. It was likely an occupational name for someone who worked as a wild animal keeper or handler. Alternatively, it could have been a topographical name for someone who lived near a wild area or wood.
Over time, the surname Wilder became popular in America and eventually evolved into a given name. Today, Wilder is often used as both a first name for boys and sometimes even girls.
Despite its popularity, there does not appear to be a widely accepted meaning associated with the name Wilder. However, many people associate it with the idea of being wild or untamed due to its origin and spelling. This interpretation can make Wilder an appealing choice for parents looking for a unique and memorable name for their child.
In terms of famous Wilders, one notable example is American author Laura Ingalls Wilder, who wrote the Little House on the Prairie series of books. Her given name was actually Elizabeth, but she later adopted the pen name Laura Ingalls Wilder. This has contributed to the name Wilder's association with literature and creativity. However, it is important to note that there are no historical figures named Wilder whose life stories can be directly linked to the meaning or origin of the name.
In conclusion, Wilder is a unique American given name with an interesting history rooted in English occupational and topographical surnames. While there may not be a widely accepted meaning associated with the name, many people interpret it as being connected to wildness or untamed qualities. Its popularity has grown over time, and it continues to appeal to parents seeking distinctive names for their children.
The name Wilder experienced fluctuating popularity over the past century. In its early years, from 1914 to 1926, it maintained a steady average of around 7 births per year. However, there was a significant drop in popularity between 1927 and 1952, with fewer than 8 births each year. This trend continued until the late 1980s.
Since 1989, there has been a remarkable resurgence in the name's popularity, rising from 13 births in that year to an impressive 889 births in 2021. The past decade alone has seen an average of over 650 births per year, with 2020 and 2021 both surpassing 800 births each. This indicates a strong and growing interest in the name Wilder in recent years.
In total, since 1914, there have been 6608 recorded births with the name Wilder.