Joplin, of American origin, is a unique and distinctive given name. It is derived from the surname Jopling, which is believed to have originated from an Old English personal name, 'Þorphelin', composed of elements 'þorp' meaning village and 'helm' signifying helmet or protection. The name was later anglicized to Jopling and eventually became Joplin over time.
The name gained prominence in the United States during the mid-19th century due to its association with the town of Joplin, Missouri. Named after Reverend Harris P. Joplin, an early settler in the area, this mining town became famous for its zinc and lead deposits, earning it the moniker 'Queen City of the Ozarks'.
In popular culture, the name Joplin has been immortalized by the late American singer-songwriter Janis Joplin, who was born with this distinctive name. Her powerful and soulful vocals made her a major figure in psychedelic rock during the late 1960s. However, it is essential to note that the use of the name Joplin predates her fame.
Today, Joplin remains a compelling choice for parents seeking an uncommon yet memorable name for their child. Its unique sound and historical significance make it an appealing option for those looking to give their child a distinctive moniker with a rich backstory.
The name Joplin has seen a significant increase in popularity over the past two decades, with a total of 329 babies named Joplin born between 2000 and 2023. While there were only 9 births each year in 2000 and 2001, the number began to rise steadily from 2008 onwards, reaching a peak of 27 births in 2019. The most recent years show a slight decrease, with 14 births in 2022 and 10 in 2023. Despite this recent dip, the overall trend indicates that the name Joplin has become more common over time.