Orson Boy
Origin(s)
PronunciationOR-sun / /ˈɔːrsən/Latin; English
Meaning
Latin: bear; English: from the name Orson
Historical & Cultural Background
The name Orson is derived from the Latin word "ursus," meaning "bear." This etymological root reflects a connection to strength and bravery, as bears are often symbolic of these traits in various cultures. The name likely entered the English language through Old French, where it was adapted as "Orson" in the medieval period. The transition from Latin to Old French and then to English illustrates the linguistic evolution influenced by the Norman Conquest in the 11th century, which brought many Latin-derived names into English usage.
Historically, the name Orson gained prominence in the 16th century, notably through its association with notable figures such as Orson Welles, who was a significant figure in film and theater during the 20th century. However, earlier instances of the name can be traced back to medieval England, where it was occasionally used as a given name. The name's literary significance was further cemented by its use in various works, including the 19th-century novel "Orson's Folly" by the author William H. G. Kingston, which contributed to its cultural resonance.
Culturally, the name Orson has been associated with creativity and artistic expression, particularly due to its connection with Welles, who is celebrated for his innovative contributions to cinema and radio. The name's strong, animalistic connotation has also made it appealing in various literary and artistic contexts, symbolizing a connection to nature and primal strength. While diminutive forms such as "Orsy" may exist, the name Orson itself has maintained a distinct identity throughout its history, embodying a blend of strength and creativity.
Trend Summary
Orson has seen fluctuating popularity in the United States, with a notable peak in the early to mid-20th century.
Similar Names
Variants
- Orsen
International Variants
- Orson (English)
Famous people named Orson
Orson Welles is a director and actor best known for Citizen Kane, The War of the Worlds, and Touch of Evil.
Orson Bean was an actor and comedian best known for Being John Malkovich, The Twilight Zone, and Dr. Quinn, Medicine Woman.
Fictional characters named Orson
Orson Welles is a fictional character from the film The Third Man. He is a prominent figure in the story, known for his influential role in the development of cinema and radio.
Sibling Suggestions
U.S. Historical Usage
The name Orson was first seen in the United States in 1880. Orson has ranked as high as #1244 nationally, which occurred in 2023, and has been most popular in California, New York, Utah, Texas, and Washington. In the past 5 years the name Orson has been trending up compared to the previous 5 years.
Popularity Over Time (National)
Top States for Orson (2024)
State | Births | Share |
---|---|---|
CA | 8 | |
NY | 8 | |
WA | 7 | |
WI | 6 | |
FL | 6 | |
IA | 5 | |
IL | 5 | |
MN | 5 | |
TX | 5 |
Popularity Over Time (National) — Table
Year | Births |
---|---|
1880 | 7 |
1881 | 7 |
1882 | 9 |
1883 | 12 |
1884 | 6 |
1885 | 6 |
1886 | 5 |
1887 | 6 |
1888 | 7 |
1891 | 5 |
1892 | 7 |
1895 | 7 |
1896 | 8 |
1898 | 7 |
1899 | 5 |
1901 | 7 |
1910 | 7 |
1911 | 8 |
1912 | 10 |
1913 | 25 |
1914 | 15 |
1915 | 24 |
1916 | 21 |
1917 | 22 |
1918 | 23 |
1919 | 29 |
1920 | 18 |
1921 | 11 |
1922 | 21 |
1923 | 26 |
1924 | 26 |
1925 | 19 |
1926 | 18 |
1927 | 9 |
1928 | 15 |
1929 | 16 |
1930 | 13 |
1931 | 17 |
1932 | 11 |
1933 | 12 |
1934 | 16 |
1935 | 8 |
1936 | 13 |
1937 | 11 |
1938 | 9 |
1939 | 16 |
1940 | 22 |
1941 | 13 |
1942 | 7 |
1943 | 9 |
1944 | 18 |
1945 | 16 |
1946 | 18 |
1947 | 14 |
1948 | 8 |
1949 | 12 |
1950 | 15 |
1951 | 13 |
1952 | 13 |
1953 | 11 |
1954 | 14 |
1955 | 8 |
1956 | 19 |
1957 | 17 |
1958 | 21 |
1959 | 8 |
1960 | 8 |
1961 | 10 |
1962 | 11 |
1963 | 17 |
1964 | 6 |
1965 | 14 |
1966 | 13 |
1967 | 8 |
1968 | 9 |
1969 | 15 |
1970 | 24 |
1971 | 19 |
1972 | 8 |
1973 | 9 |
1974 | 19 |
1975 | 14 |
1976 | 18 |
1977 | 11 |
1978 | 12 |
1979 | 12 |
1980 | 13 |
1981 | 12 |
1982 | 9 |
1983 | 10 |
1985 | 7 |
1986 | 11 |
1987 | 7 |
1988 | 14 |
1989 | 6 |
1990 | 7 |
1991 | 9 |
1994 | 8 |
1995 | 7 |
1996 | 8 |
1997 | 7 |
1998 | 7 |
1999 | 8 |
2000 | 8 |
2001 | 9 |
2002 | 12 |
2003 | 11 |
2004 | 7 |
2005 | 13 |
2006 | 14 |
2007 | 23 |
2008 | 18 |
2009 | 23 |
2010 | 28 |
2011 | 34 |
2012 | 31 |
2013 | 42 |
2014 | 53 |
2015 | 66 |
2016 | 90 |
2017 | 73 |
2018 | 63 |
2019 | 105 |
2020 | 104 |
2021 | 98 |
2022 | 127 |
2023 | 132 |
2024 | 119 |