Crawford Boy

Scottish; English

Meaning

Scottish: 'from the marsh' or 'dweller by the marsh'; English: 'craw' (crow) + 'ford' (river crossing)

Historical & Cultural Background

The name Crawford has its origins in the Old English elements "crawe," meaning "crow," and "ford," meaning "river crossing." This etymological combination suggests a geographical significance, likely referring to a place where crows were commonly seen near a river crossing. The name is believed to have been derived from various locations in England and Scotland, with the most notable being Crawford in Lanarkshire, Scotland. The transition into English usage occurred through the Norman influence in the medieval period, where it was adopted as a surname before being used as a given name.

Historically, the name Crawford is associated with several notable figures and events. In the 12th century, the Crawford family became prominent in Scotland, with members of the clan playing significant roles in Scottish history. The name is also linked to the Scottish noble family of Crawford, who held lands and titles, contributing to the name's historical resonance. The name appears in various historical records, including the writings of chroniclers and genealogists, which helped to solidify its place in the cultural narrative of Scotland and England.

Crawford carries with it connotations of strength and resilience, reflective of the geographical features it describes. The association with crows, often seen as intelligent and adaptable birds, adds a layer of symbolic significance to the name. In literature and folklore, crows have been depicted as messengers or symbols of transformation, further enriching the name's cultural depth. While diminutive forms or variations may exist, such as Craw or Crawf, the name Crawford itself has maintained a strong presence through its historical and cultural connections.

Trend Summary

Crawford has seen fluctuating popularity in the United States, with occasional peaks in usage.

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