Min Unisex
Name Meaning & Origin Pronunciation: min /mɪn/
Origin: Chinese; English
Meaning: Chinese: clever; English: short form of names like Minerva
Historical & Cultural Background
The name Min has roots in several linguistic traditions, primarily deriving from the Chinese character "敏," which means "quick" or "clever." In this context, Min is often used as a given name in various East Asian cultures, particularly in China, where it can also be a surname. The name's etymology can be traced back through the Chinese language, and it has been adopted in different forms across other languages and cultures, including Korean and Vietnamese, where it retains similar meanings.
The adoption of the name into English and other Western languages often occurs through transliteration, reflecting the phonetic sounds of the original characters rather than a direct translation of meaning. Historically, the name Min has been associated with various figures in Chinese history and literature.
For instance, during the Tang Dynasty (618-907 CE), the name appeared in literary works and was used by notable scholars and poets. In Korea, the name Min has been borne by several historical figures, including members of the royal family and prominent scholars, particularly during the Joseon Dynasty (1392-1910).
The name's presence in these cultures highlights its significance and the esteem in which it has been held throughout history. Culturally, the name Min embodies qualities such as intelligence and agility, which have made it a favorable choice in naming conventions.
In Chinese culture, names are often chosen based on their meanings and the virtues they represent, and Min is no exception. The name's associations with cleverness and quickness resonate with traditional values that emphasize wisdom and adaptability.
In some contexts, diminutive forms or variations of the name, such as Ming, may also be encountered, further enriching its cultural tapestry. Overall, the name Min carries a legacy that reflects both linguistic heritage and cultural significance across multiple societies.
Famous people named Min
Sibling suggestions
Similar names
U.S. Historical Usage
The name Min was first seen in the United States in 1971. Min has ranked as high as #1217 nationally, which occurred in 1994, and has been most popular in California, New York, and Maryland. In the past 5 years the name Min has been trending up compared to the previous 5 years.
Popularity Over Time (National)
Top States for Min (2013)
| State | Births | Share |
|---|---|---|
| NY | 5 |
Popularity Over Time (National) — Table
| Year | Births |
|---|---|
| 1971 | 6 |
| 1972 | 5 |
| 1977 | 5 |
| 1979 | 5 |
| 1981 | 8 |
| 1982 | 17 |
| 1983 | 14 |
| 1984 | 10 |
| 1985 | 11 |
| 1986 | 16 |
| 1987 | 9 |
| 1988 | 9 |
| 1989 | 13 |
| 1990 | 13 |
| 1991 | 15 |
| 1992 | 5 |
| 1993 | 13 |
| 1994 | 20 |
| 1995 | 17 |
| 1996 | 14 |
| 1997 | 11 |
| 1998 | 12 |
| 1999 | 17 |
| 2000 | 7 |
| 2001 | 9 |
| 2002 | 11 |
| 2003 | 7 |
| 2004 | 12 |
| 2005 | 11 |
| 2006 | 9 |
| 2007 | 9 |
| 2008 | 5 |
| 2009 | 8 |
| 2011 | 6 |
| 2013 | 9 |
| 2014 | 7 |
| 2016 | 5 |
| 2017 | 8 |
| 2018 | 7 |