Jet Unisex
Name Meaning & Origin Pronunciation: jet //dʒɛt//
Origin: English; Dutch
Meaning: English: jet black; Dutch: a type of coal
Historical & Cultural Background
The name Jet is believed to have originated from the Old French word "jeton," which means "to throw" or "to cast." This term itself is derived from the Latin "jacere," meaning "to throw." The name entered the English language through the influence of Norman French following the Norman Conquest of England in the 11th century. Over time, the name Jet has also been associated with the dark, lignite gemstone known as jet, which has been used in jewelry since antiquity and was particularly popular during the Victorian era for mourning jewelry.
Historically, the name Jet has been linked to various cultural and artistic expressions. In the 19th century, the gemstone jet gained prominence due to its use in the creation of elaborate mourning pieces, especially after the death of Queen Victoria's husband, Prince Albert, in 1861.
This association with mourning and remembrance contributed to the name's resonance in Victorian society. Additionally, the name Jet has appeared in literature and art, often symbolizing speed and dynamism, reflecting the qualities of the gemstone and its etymological roots.
Culturally, the name Jet evokes images of strength and resilience, qualities that have made it appealing across different contexts. The name's association with the gemstone also lends it a sense of timelessness and connection to the earth, as jet is formed from the fossilized wood of ancient trees.
While diminutive forms like Jett have emerged, the name Jet itself carries a straightforward and robust character, embodying both historical significance and a sense of natural beauty.
Famous people named Jet
Jet Li is an actor and martial artist best known for Hero, Once Upon a Time in China, and The Expendables.
Jet Black is a musician best known as the drummer for the band The Stranglers.
Jet Tila is a chef and television personality best known for his appearances on Food Network and his expertise in Thai cuisine.
Fictional characters named Jet
Jet is a fictional character from the animated series Avatar: The Last Airbender. He is a charismatic leader of a group of rebels known as the Freedom Fighters, fighting against the Fire Nation's oppression.
Sibling suggestions
Similar names
U.S. Historical Usage
The name Jet was first seen in the United States in 1959.
Jet has ranked as high as #1201 nationally, which occurred in 2019, and has been most popular in California, Texas, Florida, Utah, and Arizona.
In the past 5 years the name Jet has been trending down compared to the previous 5 years.
Popularity Over Time (National)
Top States for Jet (2024)
| State | Births | Share |
|---|---|---|
| CA | 18 | |
| TX | 13 | |
| FL | 11 | |
| UT | 10 | |
| GA | 7 | |
| HI | 7 | |
| MN | 6 | |
| MO | 6 | |
| MI | 5 | |
| AZ | 5 | |
| NY | 5 |
Popularity Over Time (National) — Table
| Year | Births |
|---|---|
| 1959 | 5 |
| 1960 | 5 |
| 1961 | 6 |
| 1975 | 6 |
| 1977 | 5 |
| 1979 | 6 |
| 1982 | 5 |
| 1987 | 6 |
| 1989 | 5 |
| 1992 | 7 |
| 1993 | 8 |
| 1996 | 13 |
| 1997 | 17 |
| 1998 | 29 |
| 1999 | 27 |
| 2000 | 56 |
| 2001 | 63 |
| 2002 | 55 |
| 2003 | 56 |
| 2004 | 72 |
| 2005 | 118 |
| 2006 | 99 |
| 2007 | 98 |
| 2008 | 122 |
| 2009 | 120 |
| 2010 | 132 |
| 2011 | 142 |
| 2012 | 150 |
| 2013 | 141 |
| 2014 | 140 |
| 2015 | 148 |
| 2016 | 148 |
| 2017 | 132 |
| 2018 | 147 |
| 2019 | 171 |
| 2020 | 137 |
| 2021 | 157 |
| 2022 | 162 |
| 2023 | 145 |
| 2024 | 140 |