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Winthrop Boy

Popularity: · Trend: → Stable

Origin(s)

PronunciationWIN-throp / /ˈwɪnθrɒp/

Old English; Anglo-Saxon

Meaning

Old English: 'friend' + 'river'; Anglo-Saxon: 'riverbank'

Historical & Cultural Background

The name Winthrop has its roots in Old English, specifically deriving from the elements "wine," meaning "friend," and "throp," which translates to "village" or "settlement." This etymological composition suggests a meaning akin to "friend of the village" or "village friend." The name was introduced into the English language during the Anglo-Saxon period and has evolved through various forms over the centuries, ultimately becoming established in its current form by the late Middle Ages.

A significant historical milestone associated with the name Winthrop is the figure of John Winthrop (1587–1649), who was a prominent Puritan leader and the first governor of the Massachusetts Bay Colony. His leadership during the early 17th century was crucial in the establishment of the colony, and he is often remembered for his vision of a "city upon a hill," which has had lasting implications in American cultural and political discourse. Winthrop's writings and speeches contributed to the early American identity, and his legacy is reflected in various historical texts and interpretations of Puritanism.

The name Winthrop carries cultural resonance, particularly in the context of American history and the Puritanical roots of New England. It symbolizes ideals of community, leadership, and moral responsibility, reflecting the values held by early settlers. The name has also been associated with various institutions and locations, such as Winthrop University in South Carolina, which further solidifies its historical significance. Additionally, the diminutive form "Winnie" has been used in various contexts, although it is less directly tied to the historical narrative of the name itself. Overall, Winthrop encapsulates a blend of linguistic heritage and historical importance, marking its place in the annals of English and American history.

Trend Summary

Winthrop has remained relatively uncommon in the United States, with sporadic usage over the years.

Similar Names

Variants

International Variants

Famous people named Winthrop

Winthrop Rockefeller was a businessman and philanthropist best known for his work in Arkansas and his contributions to the Republican Party.

Fictional characters named Winthrop

Winthrop Paroo is a fictional character from the musical and film The Music Man. He is the shy, stuttering younger brother of Marian Paroo who eventually gains confidence through the story.

Sibling Suggestions

U.S. Historical Usage

The name Winthrop was first seen in the United States in 1883. Winthrop has ranked as high as #786 nationally, which occurred in 1915, and has been most popular in Massachusetts, New York, and Connecticut. In the past 5 years the name Winthrop has been trending down compared to the previous 5 years.

Popularity Over Time (National)

Top States for Winthrop (1954)

StateBirthsShare
NY 6
100%

Popularity Over Time (National) — Table

YearBirths
18835
18865
18966
19047
19058
19069
19095
191115
191215
191313
191425
191548
191629
191722
191832
191917
192034
192126
192216
192327
192427
192515
192621
192720
192821
19296
193018
193126
193213
193313
193416
193511
193612
193712
193815
193912
19407
194112
194214
194319
194413
194524
194619
194712
194824
194927
195024
195117
195211
195313
195421
195512
195620
195715
195815
195915
196013
196112
196214
196312
196411
196511
196611
19678
196812
19698
197010
197110
19727
19768
19775
19796
19816
19825
19837
19845
19916
19937
201311
20165
20176
20236