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Sawyer Unisex

Popularity: #128 · Trend: ↘ Falling

Origin(s)

PronunciationSOY-er / /ˈsɔɪər/

English; Old French

Meaning

English: woodcutter; Old French: one who saws wood

Historical & Cultural Background

The name Sawyer originates from the Old English term "sawyer," which referred to a person who saws wood. This occupational surname was derived from the verb "saw," which has its roots in the Proto-Germanic word "sagwō," meaning to cut or saw. The transition into a given name occurred as surnames began to be used as first names in the English-speaking world, particularly from the 16th century onward. The name entered the English lexicon as a first name during the 19th century, reflecting a broader trend of adopting surnames as first names in various cultures.

Historically, the name Sawyer has been associated with various figures and cultural references. One notable mention is in Mark Twain's classic novel "The Adventures of Tom Sawyer," published in 1876, which contributed to the name's recognition in literature. The character Tom Sawyer, a young boy known for his adventurous spirit, has become an iconic figure in American literature, further embedding the name in cultural consciousness. The use of Sawyer as a first name has also been noted in various historical records, where it was occasionally used to honor family lineage or occupational heritage.

Culturally, the name Sawyer carries connotations of craftsmanship and industriousness, reflecting the historical significance of woodworking and trade in society. The name's association with labor and skill has lent it a sense of respectability and tradition. Additionally, diminutive forms such as "Saw" or "Sawyer" have emerged in informal contexts, though the primary form remains prevalent. Overall, the name Sawyer encapsulates a rich tapestry of linguistic evolution, historical significance, and cultural resonance.

Trend Summary

Sawyer has seen a steady rise in popularity in the United States, particularly since the 1990s.

Similar Names

Variants

  • Saw
  • Sawy

International Variants

Famous people named Sawyer

Sawyer Fredericks is a singer-songwriter best known for winning The Voice and his album A Good Storm.

Sawyer Brown is a country music band best known for their hits Step That Step, Some Girls Do, and Thank God for You.

Fictional characters named Sawyer

Sawyer is a fictional character from the TV series Lost. They are a conman with a troubled past who becomes a key member of the survivors on the mysterious island.

Sibling Suggestions

U.S. Historical Usage

The name Sawyer was first seen in the United States in 1913. Sawyer has ranked as high as #156 nationally, which occurred in 2015, and has been most popular in Texas, California, Wisconsin, North Carolina, and Michigan. In the past 5 years the name Sawyer has been trending down compared to the previous 5 years.

Popularity Over Time (National)

Top States for Sawyer (2024)

StateBirthsShare
TX 161
6%
OH 129
5%
TN 122
5%
NC 121
5%
GA 116
4%
FL 116
4%
CA 111
4%
PA 98
4%
MI 95
4%
MO 86
3%
NY 85
3%
AL 80
3%
WI 78
3%
MN 78
3%
VA 76
3%

Popularity Over Time (National) — Table

YearBirths
19137
19785
19839
198411
198519
198648
198763
198853
198972
199091
1991126
1992299
1993375
1994463
1995438
1996380
1997389
1998429
1999463
2000517
2001471
2002463
2003570
2004592
20051,069
20061,389
20071,511
20081,674
20091,897
20102,220
20112,179
20122,741
20133,166
20143,596
20154,271
20164,248
20174,171
20183,878
20193,558
20203,187
20213,256
20222,911
20232,842
20242,756