Crystal is a name of English origin, derived from the Middle English word "crystal," which refers to rock crystal or quartz. It entered popular use as a given name in the mid-20th century and has since gained popularity worldwide.
The meaning behind the name Crystal is associated with clarity, purity, and transparency. Just as a crystal is clear and gleaming, someone named Crystal might be seen as radiant, transparent, and free from deceit or guile. This connection to the gemstone also imbues the name with connotations of beauty and brilliance.
Historically, the use of Crystal as a given name can be traced back to at least the late 18th century. However, it wasn't until the mid-20th century that it began to appear more frequently in baby name records. In the United States, for instance, its usage peaked between 1975 and 1985, during which time it was among the top thousand names for girls each year.
In literature and popular culture, Crystal has been used as a character name in various works, such as "The Crystal Cave" by Mary Stewart, a historical fantasy novel set in King Arthur's Britain. This further helped to establish the name's presence in popular consciousness and reinforce its associations with clarity, purity, and enchantment.
Today, Crystal continues to be a popular choice among parents seeking unique yet meaningful names for their daughters. Its enduring appeal lies in its connection to the beauty of nature and the qualities it symbolizes – qualities that many parents hope their children will embody.
The name Crystal has had a varied history of popularity in the United States over the past few decades. The data shows that between 1967 and 2000, there were a total of 962 babies born who were named Crystal.
In the late 1960s and early 1970s, the name Crystal started to gain some traction, with around 10-20 births per year. However, it was not until the late 1970s and early 1980s that the name really began to rise in popularity. Between 1977 and 1983, there were over 30 births each year for girls named Crystal.
The peak of popularity for the name Crystal occurred in 1982, with a total of 77 births. This was followed by another strong year in 1983, with 84 babies named Crystal born that year. However, after this point, the popularity of the name began to decline.
In the mid-1980s and early 1990s, there were still around 50-70 births per year for girls named Crystal. But by the late 1990s and early 2000s, this number had dropped significantly, with fewer than 10 babies named Crystal born each year.
Overall, while the name Crystal has experienced periods of both popularity and decline over the past few decades, it remains a unique and memorable choice for parents looking to give their daughter a distinctive name.