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Stanford Boy

Popularity: #913 · Trend: ↘ Falling

Origin(s)

PronunciationSTAN-ford / /ˈstæn.fɔrd/

English; Old English

Meaning

English: stone ford; Old English: stān ford

Historical & Cultural Background

The name Stanford has its roots in Old English, deriving from the elements "stan," meaning "stone," and "ford," referring to a river crossing. This etymological combination suggests a geographical origin, likely describing a place characterized by a stony river crossing. The name appears in various forms throughout history, including as "Stanford" in Middle English, which was influenced by the Norman Conquest in the 11th century, when many Old English names were recorded in Latin and later adapted into Anglo-Norman forms.

Historically, Stanford is associated with several notable locations in England, particularly Stanford in Lincolnshire, which is documented in the Domesday Book of 1086. The name also appears in various medieval records, indicating its use as both a surname and a place name. In the 19th century, the name gained further prominence through the establishment of Stanford University in California, founded in 1885 by Leland Stanford, a significant figure in American history and a prominent railroad magnate. This institution has contributed to the name's recognition in academic and cultural contexts.

Culturally, the name Stanford carries connotations of strength and stability, reflective of its literal meaning related to stone and crossing. It has been used in literature and historical texts, often symbolizing resilience and endurance. The name may also have diminutive forms or variations, such as "Stan," which have been used informally. Overall, Stanford encapsulates a rich historical and linguistic heritage, rooted in the geography and culture of England.

Trend Summary

Stanford has seen a steady but low level of popularity in the United States.

Similar Names

Variants

International Variants

Famous people named Stanford

Stanford White was an architect best known for designing the Washington Square Arch, the New York Times Building, and the New York City Public Library.

Stanford University is a prestigious university best known for its research contributions, notable alumni, and academic excellence.

Fictional characters named Stanford

Stanford Pines is a fictional character from the animated television series Gravity Falls. He is the twin brother of Stanley Pines and a brilliant scientist who uncovers the mysteries of Gravity Falls.

Sibling Suggestions

U.S. Historical Usage

The name Stanford was first seen in the United States in 1880. Stanford has ranked as high as #929 nationally, which occurred in 1954, and has been most popular in Pennsylvania, California, New York, Ohio, and Louisiana. In the past 5 years the name Stanford has been trending up compared to the previous 5 years.

Popularity Over Time (National)

Top States for Stanford (2002)

StateBirthsShare
CA 5
100%

Popularity Over Time (National) — Table

YearBirths
18806
18876
189410
18956
18987
18996
190011
19015
190310
19048
19056
190613
190716
190815
190920
191020
191121
191243
191358
191468
191587
191676
1917107
191892
191990
192097
192193
1922119
192392
192493
192594
1926100
1927131
1928118
1929118
1930101
1931130
193286
193392
1934103
193586
193690
193785
1938105
193982
194079
194192
194296
194374
194495
194584
194697
1947113
1948129
1949127
1950119
1951122
1952126
1953114
1954135
1955105
1956124
1957132
1958113
1959101
1960104
1961104
1962113
196392
196479
196599
196692
196783
196897
196973
197070
197195
197275
197371
197455
197553
197635
197741
197839
197951
198036
198150
198250
198345
198438
198547
198645
198749
198852
198943
199036
199157
199238
199336
199429
199537
199629
199729
199825
199918
200017
200121
200223
200321
200419
200522
200621
200714
200815
200912
201016
20117
201221
201315
201420
201518
201612
201716
201817
20197
202013
202119
202221
20237
202411