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Franklin Boy

Popularity: #359 · Trend: ↗ Rising

Origin(s)

PronunciationFRANK-lin / /ˈfræŋklɪn/

English; French

Meaning

English: Free man; French: From the land of the Franks

Historical & Cultural Background

The name Franklin has its roots in the Old French word "franc," meaning "free" or "free man." This term was derived from the Latin "francus," which also conveys the notion of freedom. The name entered the English language during the Middle Ages, particularly in the 12th century, as a surname for a class of freeholders who were not of noble birth but owned land and had certain rights. The surname Franklin eventually evolved into a given name, particularly in English-speaking countries.

Historically, the name Franklin gained prominence through notable figures, one of the most significant being Benjamin Franklin (1706–1790), a Founding Father of the United States, who was also a renowned polymath, inventor, and diplomat. His contributions to American society, including his role in the American Revolution and his influence on the drafting of the U.S. Constitution, have cemented the name's association with intellect and civic responsibility. The name also appears in various historical texts and documents, reflecting its usage among prominent families and individuals throughout the centuries.

Culturally, the name Franklin has been associated with values such as independence and self-sufficiency, resonating with the ideals of the Enlightenment and the American spirit of the 18th century. The name has also been linked to various literary and artistic works, further embedding it in the cultural consciousness. Additionally, diminutive forms like Frank have emerged, showcasing the name's adaptability and enduring appeal across generations. Overall, Franklin carries a legacy that reflects both historical significance and cultural values.

Trend Summary

Franklin has seen a resurgence in popularity in the United States, particularly in the 21st century.

Similar Names

Variants

  • Frank
  • Frankie

International Variants

  • Franco (Italian)
  • François (French)
  • Franz (German)

Famous people named Franklin

Franklin D. Roosevelt is a U.S. President best known for leading the country during the Great Depression and World War II.

Franklin Pierce is a U.S. President best known for his controversial administration and the Kansas-Nebraska Act.

Franklin Graham is an evangelist and missionary best known for his work with the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association and Samaritan's Purse.

Franklin Mint is a company best known for producing collectible coins and memorabilia.

Franklin Chang-Diaz is an astronaut and physicist best known for his work with NASA and the development of the VASIMR rocket technology.

Fictional characters named Franklin

Franklin is a fictional character from the animated television series Franklin. He is a young turtle who learns valuable life lessons while navigating childhood adventures.

Sibling Suggestions

U.S. Historical Usage

The name Franklin was first seen in the United States in 1880. Franklin has ranked as high as #69 nationally, which occurred in 1933, and has been most popular in New York, Pennsylvania, California, North Carolina, and Ohio. In the past 5 years the name Franklin has been trending up compared to the previous 5 years.

Popularity Over Time (National)

Top States for Franklin (2024)

StateBirthsShare
CA 62
8%
TX 52
7%
OH 44
6%
IL 43
6%
MI 39
5%
NY 39
5%
MN 36
5%
FL 30
4%
WI 29
4%
PA 29
4%
NC 28
4%
GA 27
4%
MO 26
3%
IN 25
3%
WA 25
3%

Popularity Over Time (National) — Table

YearBirths
1880120
1881117
1882112
188394
188493
1885117
1886127
188789
1888129
1889100
189090
1891109
1892109
189399
189484
1895103
189696
189768
1898112
1899116
1900137
190192
190297
1903116
1904108
190598
1906125
1907122
1908133
1909168
1910176
1911220
1912497
1913593
1914770
19151,001
19161,073
19171,194
19181,275
19191,206
19201,451
19211,350
19221,317
19231,264
19241,284
19251,294
19261,202
19271,183
19281,103
19291,061
19301,078
19311,089
19322,754
19335,363
19344,155
19352,611
19362,939
19372,514
19382,021
19391,856
19402,391
19412,205
19422,365
19431,973
19441,817
19451,895
19461,721
19471,772
19481,551
19491,621
19501,625
19511,695
19521,722
19531,761
19541,822
19551,764
19561,793
19571,688
19581,587
19591,555
19601,535
19611,526
19621,530
19631,521
19641,500
19651,368
19661,304
19671,200
19681,182
19691,224
19701,220
19711,126
1972928
1973944
1974913
1975864
1976804
1977860
1978837
1979858
1980879
1981814
1982857
1983742
1984796
1985812
1986786
1987808
1988831
1989898
1990852
1991860
1992849
1993704
1994702
1995662
1996694
1997590
1998636
1999573
2000530
2001533
2002507
2003539
2004507
2005567
2006622
2007580
2008589
2009511
2010510
2011520
2012495
2013550
2014663
2015690
2016745
2017710
2018693
2019739
2020716
2021801
2022787
2023780
2024840