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Fletcher Boy

Popularity: #489 · Trend: ↗ Rising

Origin(s)

PronunciationFLEH-cher / /ˈflɛtʃər/

English; Old French

Meaning

English: maker of arrows; Old French: arrow maker

Historical & Cultural Background

The name Fletcher has its roots in the Old French term "flechier," which means "arrow maker." This term itself derives from the Latin word "flectere," meaning "to bend," which is a reference to the bending of wood used in the crafting of arrows. The name entered the English language during the Norman Conquest in the 11th century, when many Old French words and names were adopted into English. As a surname, Fletcher was commonly used to denote someone who made or sold arrows, reflecting the occupation of the individual or their family.

Historically, the name Fletcher is associated with various notable figures and events. In medieval England, the Fletcher surname was prevalent among craftsmen and tradesmen, particularly in archery, which was a significant aspect of warfare and hunting during the Middle Ages. The importance of archery in English history is underscored by its mention in texts such as the "Canterbury Tales" by Geoffrey Chaucer in the late 14th century, where archers were depicted as skilled and respected members of society. Additionally, the name appears in various records and documents throughout the centuries, indicating its longstanding presence in English culture.

Culturally, the name Fletcher carries connotations of craftsmanship and skill, reflecting the traditional role of the arrow maker in society. The occupation was vital during times of conflict, particularly in the Hundred Years' War, where archers played a crucial role in battles. The name has also been associated with various literary and artistic representations of archery, symbolizing precision and focus. While diminutive forms or variations of the name are less common, the surname Fletcher has maintained its significance over the centuries, embodying a connection to historical trades and the valor associated with archery.

Trend Summary

Fletcher has seen a gradual increase in popularity in the United States over the past two decades.

Similar Names

Variants

  • Fletch

International Variants

Famous people named Fletcher

Fletcher is a singer-songwriter best known for her songs Undrunk, Bitter, and Healing.

Fictional characters named Fletcher

Fletcher is a fictional character from the film and musical Fletcher. He is a talented and ambitious young man who navigates the challenges of pursuing his dreams in the competitive world of music.

Sibling Suggestions

U.S. Historical Usage

The name Fletcher was first seen in the United States in 1880. Fletcher has ranked as high as #859 nationally, which occurred in 2024, and has been most popular in North Carolina, Georgia, California, Alabama, and Texas. In the past 5 years the name Fletcher has been trending up compared to the previous 5 years.

Popularity Over Time (National)

Top States for Fletcher (2024)

StateBirthsShare
IN 36
8%
CA 35
7%
OH 27
6%
TN 25
5%
MI 24
5%
GA 22
5%
IA 22
5%
MO 21
4%
TX 21
4%
NC 19
4%
PA 16
3%
AR 15
3%
VA 14
3%
WA 14
3%
MN 14
3%

Popularity Over Time (National) — Table

YearBirths
188025
188134
188221
188327
188427
188524
188638
188721
188836
188932
189023
189128
189245
189332
189427
189538
189631
189736
189833
189934
190053
190133
190237
190333
190435
190535
190629
190744
190839
190937
191054
191151
191289
191383
1914106
1915139
1916149
1917154
1918162
1919139
1920123
1921165
1922145
1923138
1924155
1925144
1926147
1927135
1928130
1929124
1930120
1931100
1932115
1933128
1934117
1935104
193693
1937107
1938105
1939102
194092
194196
1942111
1943102
1944105
194591
1946106
194798
1948132
1949123
1950120
1951113
1952103
1953100
195496
1955107
195674
195793
195885
195974
196075
196192
196272
196375
196485
196579
196668
196772
196863
196964
197075
197169
197242
197339
197451
197554
197656
197755
197851
197953
198059
198144
198252
198345
198473
198591
198697
198788
198874
198986
199066
199175
199272
199391
199494
199583
199694
199784
1998102
1999123
2000133
2001131
2002155
2003160
2004174
2005160
2006174
2007202
2008196
2009221
2010237
2011232
2012285
2013287
2014341
2015387
2016403
2017410
2018445
2019434
2020404
2021414
2022405
2023439
2024523