Troy Boy
Origin(s)
PronunciationTROH-ee / /trɔɪ/Greek; Latin
Meaning
Greek: 'foot soldier'; Latin: 'from Troy'
Historical & Cultural Background
The name Troy has its roots in ancient history, deriving from the Latin 'Troia,' which refers to the ancient city of Troy in what is now Turkey. This city is famously associated with the Trojan War, a central narrative in Greek mythology chronicled in works such as Homer's 'Iliad.' The name entered the English language through the Old French 'Troie' during the Norman Conquest in the 11th century, which facilitated the incorporation of many classical names and terms into English. The etymological journey reflects a blend of linguistic influences, from Greek to Latin to Old French, before settling in English.
Historically, the significance of Troy is underscored by its depiction in various literary and artistic works throughout the centuries. The Trojan War, with its themes of heroism, love, and betrayal, has inspired countless adaptations in literature, theater, and art. Notable figures associated with the name include the legendary hero Hector and the cunning Odysseus, both of whom have become archetypes in Western literature. The name Troy itself has been used in various contexts, including as a reference to the city in classical texts and as a symbol of resilience and cultural legacy.
Culturally, the name Troy evokes a sense of historical grandeur and mythological depth. It has been associated with themes of valor and tragedy, particularly in the context of the epic tales surrounding the fall of Troy. The name has also been linked to the concept of the 'Trojan Horse,' a symbol of cunning and strategy. Additionally, diminutive forms such as 'Troy' may be used affectionately, though the name stands strong in its own right, embodying a rich tapestry of historical and cultural significance that has endured through the ages.
Trend Summary
Troy experienced a peak in popularity in the 1970s and 1980s in the United States.
Similar Names
Variants
- Troyce
International Variants
- Troia (Italian)
- Troie (French)
Famous people named Troy
Troy Aikman is a former professional football player best known for his time with the Dallas Cowboys, winning three Super Bowls and being inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame.
Troy Baker is a voice actor and musician best known for his roles in video games such as The Last of Us, Bioshock Infinite, and Batman: Arkham Origins.
Troy Polamalu is a former professional football player best known for his career with the Pittsburgh Steelers, winning two Super Bowls and being inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame.
Troy Duffy is a filmmaker best known for directing The Boondock Saints and its sequel.
Troy McClure is a fictional character from The Simpsons best known for his roles in various fictional films and television shows within the series.
Fictional characters named Troy
Troy Bolton is a fictional character from the film series High School Musical. He is the captain of the basketball team who discovers his passion for singing and acting, navigating the challenges of high school life.
Sibling Suggestions
U.S. Historical Usage
The name Troy was first seen in the United States in 1880. Troy has ranked as high as #80 nationally, which occurred in 1970, and has been most popular in California, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Michigan, and Illinois. In the past 5 years the name Troy has been trending down compared to the previous 5 years.
Popularity Over Time (National)
Top States for Troy (2024)
State | Births | Share |
---|---|---|
CA | 72 | |
FL | 53 | |
TX | 50 | |
NY | 32 | |
OH | 25 | |
PA | 23 | |
NC | 21 | |
AZ | 17 | |
MA | 17 | |
MI | 15 | |
GA | 15 | |
TN | 15 | |
VA | 13 | |
WA | 13 | |
MO | 13 |
Popularity Over Time (National) — Table
Year | Births |
---|---|
1880 | 8 |
1881 | 6 |
1882 | 16 |
1883 | 13 |
1884 | 11 |
1885 | 18 |
1886 | 19 |
1887 | 12 |
1888 | 20 |
1889 | 16 |
1890 | 16 |
1891 | 23 |
1892 | 29 |
1893 | 25 |
1894 | 50 |
1895 | 29 |
1896 | 32 |
1897 | 31 |
1898 | 36 |
1899 | 28 |
1900 | 69 |
1901 | 41 |
1902 | 59 |
1903 | 46 |
1904 | 69 |
1905 | 59 |
1906 | 54 |
1907 | 72 |
1908 | 87 |
1909 | 64 |
1910 | 90 |
1911 | 100 |
1912 | 202 |
1913 | 218 |
1914 | 307 |
1915 | 415 |
1916 | 442 |
1917 | 394 |
1918 | 454 |
1919 | 499 |
1920 | 519 |
1921 | 532 |
1922 | 502 |
1923 | 512 |
1924 | 559 |
1925 | 517 |
1926 | 522 |
1927 | 559 |
1928 | 562 |
1929 | 506 |
1930 | 533 |
1931 | 485 |
1932 | 540 |
1933 | 518 |
1934 | 540 |
1935 | 547 |
1936 | 534 |
1937 | 541 |
1938 | 546 |
1939 | 586 |
1940 | 577 |
1941 | 569 |
1942 | 574 |
1943 | 632 |
1944 | 631 |
1945 | 614 |
1946 | 636 |
1947 | 669 |
1948 | 653 |
1949 | 620 |
1950 | 637 |
1951 | 625 |
1952 | 671 |
1953 | 686 |
1954 | 697 |
1955 | 671 |
1956 | 705 |
1957 | 778 |
1958 | 765 |
1959 | 963 |
1960 | 2,055 |
1961 | 4,260 |
1962 | 6,047 |
1963 | 5,970 |
1964 | 6,307 |
1965 | 5,857 |
1966 | 6,905 |
1967 | 7,933 |
1968 | 7,977 |
1969 | 8,099 |
1970 | 8,448 |
1971 | 7,338 |
1972 | 6,347 |
1973 | 5,065 |
1974 | 4,564 |
1975 | 3,951 |
1976 | 3,715 |
1977 | 3,306 |
1978 | 3,153 |
1979 | 2,962 |
1980 | 2,832 |
1981 | 2,512 |
1982 | 2,534 |
1983 | 2,407 |
1984 | 2,411 |
1985 | 2,316 |
1986 | 2,249 |
1987 | 2,294 |
1988 | 2,344 |
1989 | 2,636 |
1990 | 2,505 |
1991 | 2,336 |
1992 | 2,288 |
1993 | 2,648 |
1994 | 2,843 |
1995 | 2,470 |
1996 | 2,239 |
1997 | 1,998 |
1998 | 1,821 |
1999 | 1,672 |
2000 | 1,514 |
2001 | 1,356 |
2002 | 1,301 |
2003 | 1,284 |
2004 | 1,502 |
2005 | 1,525 |
2006 | 1,583 |
2007 | 1,603 |
2008 | 1,597 |
2009 | 1,488 |
2010 | 1,384 |
2011 | 1,461 |
2012 | 1,393 |
2013 | 1,287 |
2014 | 1,327 |
2015 | 1,203 |
2016 | 1,106 |
2017 | 951 |
2018 | 912 |
2019 | 805 |
2020 | 717 |
2021 | 737 |
2022 | 650 |
2023 | 664 |
2024 | 560 |