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Orson Boy

Popularity: #805 · Trend: ↗ Rising

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)

StateBirthsShare
CA 8
15%
NY 8
15%
WA 7
13%
WI 6
11%
FL 6
11%
IA 5
9%
IL 5
9%
MN 5
9%
TX 5
9%

Popularity Over Time (National) — Table

YearBirths
18807
18817
18829
188312
18846
18856
18865
18876
18887
18915
18927
18957
18968
18987
18995
19017
19107
19118
191210
191325
191415
191524
191621
191722
191823
191929
192018
192111
192221
192326
192426
192519
192618
19279
192815
192916
193013
193117
193211
193312
193416
19358
193613
193711
19389
193916
194022
194113
19427
19439
194418
194516
194618
194714
19488
194912
195015
195113
195213
195311
195414
19558
195619
195717
195821
19598
19608
196110
196211
196317
19646
196514
196613
19678
19689
196915
197024
197119
19728
19739
197419
197514
197618
197711
197812
197912
198013
198112
19829
198310
19857
198611
19877
198814
19896
19907
19919
19948
19957
19968
19977
19987
19998
20008
20019
200212
200311
20047
200513
200614
200723
200818
200923
201028
201134
201231
201342
201453
201566
201690
201773
201863
2019105
2020104
202198
2022127
2023132
2024119