Taylor Unisex
Name Meaning & Origin Pronunciation: TAY-lor //ˈteɪlər//
Origin: English; French
Meaning: English: tailor; French: to cut
Historical & Cultural Background
The name Taylor originates from the Old French word "tailleur," meaning "to cut," which itself derives from the Latin "taliare," meaning "to cut or to shear." This term referred to a tailor, a profession that became significant in medieval society. The name entered the English language after the Norman Conquest of England in the 11th century, where it began as a surname for individuals who worked as tailors.
Over time, it transitioned from a surname to a given name, particularly in the 19th century, when occupational surnames became more common as first names in English-speaking cultures. Historically, the name Taylor has been borne by notable figures, including Taylor of Norwich, a 14th-century English saint, and various influential individuals in politics and the arts.
The name also appears in literary works, such as the writings of William Shakespeare, who used the term "tailor" in his plays, reflecting the profession's relevance in society. The name gained further recognition through figures like Zachary Taylor, the 12th President of the United States, who served in the mid-19th century, thereby embedding the name within American history.
Culturally, the name Taylor has been associated with craftsmanship and skill, reflecting the importance of tailoring in historical contexts. It has also been linked to themes of creativity and artistry, as tailors often played a role in the fashion and design of clothing.
The name's adaptability has allowed it to endure through generations, and it has various diminutive forms, such as Tay, which have emerged in different contexts. Overall, Taylor encapsulates a rich history tied to profession, societal roles, and cultural significance.
Famous people named Taylor
Taylor Swift is a singer-songwriter best known for Fearless, 1989, and Folklore.
Taylor Lautner is an actor best known for the Twilight series, Sharkboy and Lavagirl, and Scream Queens.
Taylor Momsen is an actress and musician best known for Gossip Girl, The Grinch, and her band The Pretty Reckless.
Taylor Hicks is a singer and songwriter best known for winning American Idol and his album Taylor Hicks.
Taylor Sheridan is a screenwriter and director best known for Sicario, Hell or High Water, and Yellowstone.
Fictional characters named Taylor
Taylor is a fictional character from the TV series 13 Reasons Why. They are a student at Liberty High School and a key figure in the narrative surrounding the events leading to Hannah Baker's death.
Taylor is a fictional character from the video game series The Last of Us. He is a member of the Fireflies, a revolutionary militia group fighting against the oppressive military regime in a post-apocalyptic world.
Sibling suggestions
Similar names
U.S. Historical Usage
The name Taylor was first seen in the United States in 1951.
Taylor has ranked as high as #27 nationally, which occurred in 1993, and has been most popular in California, Texas, Florida, Ohio, and New York.
In the past 5 years the name Taylor has been trending down compared to the previous 5 years.
Popularity Over Time (National)
Top States for Taylor (2024)
| State | Births | Share |
|---|---|---|
| CA | 85 | |
| TX | 82 | |
| FL | 56 | |
| GA | 44 | |
| PA | 43 | |
| NY | 39 | |
| NC | 37 | |
| MS | 33 | |
| MO | 29 | |
| TN | 29 | |
| VA | 26 | |
| OH | 21 | |
| IL | 20 | |
| WA | 18 | |
| WI | 18 |
Popularity Over Time (National) — Table
| Year | Births |
|---|---|
| 1951 | 7 |
| 1954 | 5 |
| 1956 | 6 |
| 1957 | 8 |
| 1958 | 6 |
| 1960 | 11 |
| 1961 | 7 |
| 1962 | 6 |
| 1963 | 5 |
| 1964 | 14 |
| 1966 | 11 |
| 1967 | 14 |
| 1968 | 9 |
| 1969 | 18 |
| 1970 | 19 |
| 1971 | 22 |
| 1972 | 20 |
| 1973 | 27 |
| 1974 | 39 |
| 1975 | 37 |
| 1976 | 68 |
| 1977 | 122 |
| 1978 | 123 |
| 1979 | 149 |
| 1980 | 235 |
| 1981 | 388 |
| 1982 | 604 |
| 1983 | 686 |
| 1984 | 869 |
| 1985 | 1,052 |
| 1986 | 1,215 |
| 1987 | 1,705 |
| 1988 | 2,801 |
| 1989 | 4,069 |
| 1990 | 7,262 |
| 1991 | 10,254 |
| 1992 | 14,952 |
| 1993 | 21,271 |
| 1994 | 20,734 |
| 1995 | 20,426 |
| 1996 | 19,153 |
| 1997 | 19,504 |
| 1998 | 18,576 |
| 1999 | 16,906 |
| 2000 | 15,080 |
| 2001 | 13,693 |
| 2002 | 11,468 |
| 2003 | 10,314 |
| 2004 | 9,303 |
| 2005 | 8,676 |
| 2006 | 8,565 |
| 2007 | 7,965 |
| 2008 | 8,344 |
| 2009 | 7,590 |
| 2010 | 5,900 |
| 2011 | 5,193 |
| 2012 | 4,870 |
| 2013 | 4,145 |
| 2014 | 3,818 |
| 2015 | 3,754 |
| 2016 | 3,280 |
| 2017 | 2,705 |
| 2018 | 2,499 |
| 2019 | 2,048 |
| 2020 | 1,747 |
| 2021 | 1,544 |
| 2022 | 1,371 |
| 2023 | 1,192 |
| 2024 | 877 |