Balin is a masculine given name of Old English origin. It is derived from the Old English words 'beall' and 'hun', which together mean 'bold warrior'. The name was popular among the Anglo-Saxons during the Middle Ages, but it has become less common in recent times.
The name Balin first appeared in literature in the Arthurian legend of Sir Balin, a knight who played a significant role in the story of the Holy Grail. In this tale, Balin is renowned for his bravery and skill in battle, as well as his ability to solve complex puzzles and riddles.
Throughout history, there have been several notable figures with the name Balin. One such example is Balin, a 7th-century monk who was a disciple of Saint Columba and played an important role in the spread of Christianity in Scotland. Another notable figure is Balin, a 9th-century king of Cornwall who is mentioned in the Welsh chronicle 'Brut y Tywysogion'.
Despite its historical significance, the name Balin has fallen out of favor in recent decades. However, it remains a unique and meaningful choice for parents looking for an unusual yet significant name for their son. The name Balin evokes images of strength, courage, and wisdom, making it a fitting tribute to the historic figures who have borne this name throughout history.
Based on the statistics provided, the name Balin has seen varied popularity over the years in the United States. The earliest recorded year for the name is 1992, with 5 births that year. This number remained consistent until 1996 when it also saw 5 births.
The late 1990s and early 2000s marked a significant increase in the popularity of the name Balin. In 1997, there were 6 births, followed by 8 in 1998, 11 in 1999, 20 in 2000, and peaking at 37 births in 2006. This period saw a consistent rise in the number of babies named Balin.
However, after reaching its peak in 2006, the popularity of the name began to decline. Between 2007 and 2014, the number of births with the name Balin fluctuated between 18 and 31. There was a slight increase in 2015 with 13 births, but it then decreased again to 7 births in 2016.
Interestingly, the name Balin experienced another small resurgence in recent years, with 8 births in both 2017 and 2019. However, it decreased again to 6 births in 2021.
Overall, while the name Balin has not been consistently popular over time, there have been periods where it has seen notable increases in its usage. As of 2021, a total of 421 babies have been named Balin in the United States since 1992.