Mikhail is a popular masculine name of Slavic origin, particularly common in Russia and other Eastern European countries. The name has its roots in the ancient Slavonic language and is derived from the word "mikhael," which means "who is like God?" This name is often associated with the archangel Michael, who is revered by many Christians as a protector against evil.
The earliest known use of the name Mikhail can be traced back to the Byzantine Empire, where it was used among the Slavic population. It gained popularity in Russia during the Middle Ages and has remained one of the most popular names for boys ever since. Throughout history, numerous notable figures have borne this name, including several Russian emperors, such as Tsar Mikhail I and Tsar Mikhail II.
In addition to its popularity in Eastern Europe, the name Mikhail has also been adopted by other cultures around the world. In some countries, it is used interchangeably with its Western counterparts Michael or Michel. Today, Mikhail continues to be a beloved and widely-used name for boys, carrying with it a rich history and cultural significance.
The name Mikhail has seen a notable increase in popularity over the past few decades in the United States. According to the statistics provided, there were only 5 recorded births with the name Mikhail in 1968. However, this number began to rise steadily throughout the 1970s and 1980s.
In 1985, a significant jump occurred, with 48 babies named Mikhail born that year. This was followed by an even larger increase in 1986, with 61 births, indicating that the name was starting to gain traction among American parents.
The trend continued into the 1990s and early 2000s, with over 70 babies named Mikhail born annually between 1990 and 2004. The peak of this period occurred in 2008, with a record-breaking 123 births.
Although there was a slight dip in popularity around the mid-2010s, the name Mikhail has maintained its presence among American newborns. In recent years, the number of babies named Mikhail has remained consistently above 90 per year, demonstrating that this name continues to be popular among parents today.
In total, from 1968 to 2023, there have been 3966 recorded births with the name Mikhail in the United States. This represents a considerable increase in popularity over the past 55 years, indicating that Mikhail is now well-established as an enduring and beloved choice among American parents.