Lowell is a surname of English origin that has been adopted as a given name in recent years. The name Lowell comes from the Old English word "hlæfwulf" which means "wolf" and "hlaford" meaning "loaf-giver". This suggests that someone with the name Lowell was either known for being fierce like a wolf, or perhaps they were a generous provider of bread.
The surname Lowell is believed to have originated in the county of Worcestershire in England. It is thought to have been brought to America by early settlers who arrived during the colonial period. One notable family that bears the name Lowell is the Lowell family of poets and writers, which includes Amy Lowell, a poet who won the Pulitzer Prize for Poetry in 1926.
As a given name, Lowell has gained popularity in recent years, particularly among parents looking for unique and distinctive names for their children. While it may not be as commonly used as some other names, those who choose Lowell for their child are likely drawn to its strong historical roots and unique meaning.
In terms of popularity, Lowell is not currently ranked among the top 1000 boys' names in the United States according to Social Security data. However, this does not mean that it is not a beloved name for many families who appreciate its historical significance and unique sound.
Overall, Lowell is an interesting and distinctive name with a rich history behind it. Whether used as a surname or given name, it is sure to stand out and make a lasting impression.
Based on the provided statistics, the name Lowell experienced a significant increase in popularity over time, with a notable surge starting from around 1905 until peaking in the early 1930s. Between 1905 and 1932, there was a consistent rise in the number of births named Lowell, reaching an all-time high of 1,090 births in 1931. However, after this peak, popularity began to decline steadily until the late 1960s, with fewer than 400 births per year recorded between 1965 and 1972.
From the early 1970s onwards, the name Lowell continued to lose favor, dropping below 100 births per year in some years. In recent times, from 2001 onwards, the name has seen a slight resurgence, with totals ranging between 30 and 50 births per year. Overall, there have been a total of 41,263 births named Lowell since 1881, as per the provided statistics.