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Boyd Boy

Popularity: #859 · Trend: ↘ Falling

Origin(s)

PronunciationBOYD / /bɔɪd/

Scottish; Irish

Meaning

Scottish: yellow; Irish: from the yellow place

Historical & Cultural Background

The name Boyd has its roots in the Scottish Gaelic language, deriving from the word "buidhe," which translates to "yellow" or "blond." This etymological origin reflects a physical characteristic, likely referring to hair color or complexion. The name was first recorded in the 12th century, associated with the Scottish clan Boyd, which emerged in the region of Ayrshire. The clan's name is believed to have been adopted from the Gaelic term, emphasizing the connection between the name and the landscape or attributes of the people in that area.

Historically, the Boyd clan played a significant role in Scottish history, particularly during the Middle Ages. The clan's prominence is noted in the 15th century when they were granted the title of Lord Boyd, with notable figures such as Robert Boyd, who was a supporter of King James II of Scotland. The clan's influence continued through various conflicts and political shifts, including the Wars of Scottish Independence. The name Boyd is also mentioned in literary works, contributing to its historical resonance.

Culturally, the name Boyd has been associated with various symbols of strength and loyalty, reflecting the characteristics valued in Scottish clans. The name's endurance can be attributed to its deep-rooted connections to Scottish heritage and identity. Additionally, diminutive forms such as "Boydy" have emerged, although they are less commonly referenced in historical texts. Overall, Boyd encapsulates a rich tapestry of linguistic and cultural significance, representing a blend of personal identity and clan heritage.

Trend Summary

Boyd has seen a decline in popularity in the United States over the past few decades.

Similar Names

Variants

International Variants

Famous people named Boyd

Boyd Holbrook is an actor best known for The Sandman, Narcos, and Logan.

Boyd Rice is an artist and musician best known for his work in the industrial music genre and his controversial views.

Boyd Crowder is a fictional character best known for his role in the television series Justified.

Fictional characters named Boyd

Boyd is a fictional character from the video game series Dead Space. He is a member of the USG Ishimura crew who becomes a Necromorph after the events of the game.

Sibling Suggestions

U.S. Historical Usage

The name Boyd was first seen in the United States in 1880. Boyd has ranked as high as #493 nationally, which occurred in 1922, and has been most popular in North Carolina, Pennsylvania, Utah, Kentucky, and California. In the past 5 years the name Boyd has been trending down compared to the previous 5 years.

Popularity Over Time (National)

Top States for Boyd (2024)

StateBirthsShare
PA 6
100%

Popularity Over Time (National) — Table

YearBirths
188016
188124
188229
188321
188424
188540
188643
188726
188841
188947
189035
189129
189237
189335
189446
189531
189634
189737
189834
189953
190062
190142
190242
190341
190446
190540
190654
190754
190861
190968
191086
191185
1912171
1913197
1914287
1915335
1916384
1917388
1918433
1919415
1920457
1921438
1922508
1923429
1924459
1925493
1926432
1927440
1928446
1929460
1930430
1931426
1932397
1933406
1934398
1935351
1936356
1937419
1938413
1939361
1940374
1941412
1942393
1943405
1944345
1945318
1946362
1947427
1948354
1949345
1950342
1951365
1952397
1953390
1954343
1955370
1956377
1957387
1958365
1959378
1960370
1961356
1962407
1963339
1964337
1965285
1966265
1967252
1968271
1969251
1970273
1971185
1972154
1973148
1974151
1975137
1976111
1977115
1978102
1979102
198098
198196
1982100
198368
198476
198579
198667
198754
198854
198950
199064
199157
199257
199355
199458
199553
199651
199763
199845
199941
200041
200140
200251
200343
200444
200543
200638
200763
200851
200943
201049
201144
201273
201375
201499
201581
201699
2017122
2018117
201997
2020109
2021106
2022107
202367
202465