Victor Boy
Origin(s)
PronunciationVIK-tor / /ˈvɪk.tər/Latin; French
Meaning
Latin: conqueror; French: victor
Historical & Cultural Background
The name Victor is derived from the Latin word "victor," meaning "conqueror" or "winner." This term has its roots in the verb "vincere," which translates to "to conquer." The name entered the English language through Old French, where it was adopted as "Victoir" before being anglicized to Victor. The transition from Latin to French and then to English reflects the broader historical influences of the Roman Empire and the Norman Conquest on the English language and culture.
Historically, the name Victor has been borne by several notable figures, including saints and popes. One prominent example is Saint Victor, a martyr from the early Christian era, whose feast day is celebrated in various Christian traditions. The name was also popularized by various popes, including Pope Victor I, who served in the late 2nd century and is recognized for his role in early Church history. The name's association with victory and triumph made it a favored choice among Christian communities, particularly during the Middle Ages when names with strong religious connotations were prevalent.
Culturally, the name Victor has been associated with themes of strength and success, resonating in various literary and artistic works throughout history. It has appeared in classical literature and has been used in various contexts to symbolize achievement and valor. The name has also inspired diminutive forms such as Vic, which have been used in different cultures. Overall, Victor's enduring appeal can be attributed to its powerful meaning and historical significance, making it a name that carries connotations of triumph and resilience.
Trend Summary
Victor has seen fluctuating popularity in the United States, remaining a classic choice with a steady presence.
Similar Names
Variants
- Viktor
- Viktoria
International Variants
- Vittorio (Italian)
- Viktor (Hungarian)
- Vítor (Portuguese)
- Viktor (Russian)
Famous people named Victor
Victor Hugo is a novelist and playwright best known for Les Misérables, The Hunchback of Notre-Dame, and The Toilers of the Sea.
Victor Vasarely is an artist best known for being a pioneer of the Op Art movement and his works such as Zebra and Vega.
Victor Borge is a comedian and pianist best known for his musical comedy performances and television specials.
Victor Mature is an actor best known for One Million B.C., The Robe, and Samson and Delilah.
Victor Garber is an actor best known for Titanic, Argo, and Alias.
Victor Wooten is a bassist and composer best known for his work with Bela Fleck and the Flecktones and his solo albums.
Victor Davis Hanson is a historian and author best known for his works on ancient warfare and his commentary on modern military strategy.
Victor Oladipo is a professional basketball player best known for his time with the Indiana Pacers and being a two-time NBA All-Star.
Victor Cruz is a former professional football player best known for his time with the New York Giants and winning Super Bowl XLVI.
Fictional characters named Victor
Victor Frankenstein is a fictional character from the novel Frankenstein by Mary Shelley. He is a scientist who creates a living being from dead tissue, leading to tragic consequences.
Sibling Suggestions
U.S. Historical Usage
The name Victor was first seen in the United States in 1880. Victor has ranked as high as #154 nationally, which occurred in 1990, and has been most popular in California, New York, Texas, Illinois, and Pennsylvania. In the past 5 years the name Victor has been trending down compared to the previous 5 years.
Popularity Over Time (National)
Top States for Victor (2024)
State | Births | Share |
---|---|---|
CA | 306 | |
TX | 288 | |
FL | 113 | |
NY | 83 | |
GA | 59 | |
AZ | 57 | |
IL | 52 | |
OH | 48 | |
WA | 48 | |
IN | 38 | |
TN | 37 | |
NC | 37 | |
PA | 37 | |
VA | 32 | |
MA | 27 |
Popularity Over Time (National) — Table
Year | Births |
---|---|
1880 | 100 |
1881 | 110 |
1882 | 109 |
1883 | 99 |
1884 | 124 |
1885 | 143 |
1886 | 146 |
1887 | 119 |
1888 | 134 |
1889 | 158 |
1890 | 138 |
1891 | 154 |
1892 | 200 |
1893 | 172 |
1894 | 180 |
1895 | 196 |
1896 | 201 |
1897 | 190 |
1898 | 205 |
1899 | 175 |
1900 | 269 |
1901 | 169 |
1902 | 205 |
1903 | 196 |
1904 | 218 |
1905 | 268 |
1906 | 249 |
1907 | 245 |
1908 | 308 |
1909 | 320 |
1910 | 372 |
1911 | 493 |
1912 | 989 |
1913 | 1,177 |
1914 | 1,559 |
1915 | 2,211 |
1916 | 2,215 |
1917 | 2,207 |
1918 | 3,183 |
1919 | 2,751 |
1920 | 2,349 |
1921 | 2,407 |
1922 | 2,322 |
1923 | 2,226 |
1924 | 2,189 |
1925 | 2,119 |
1926 | 2,016 |
1927 | 1,983 |
1928 | 1,946 |
1929 | 1,941 |
1930 | 1,844 |
1931 | 1,623 |
1932 | 1,612 |
1933 | 1,431 |
1934 | 1,420 |
1935 | 1,545 |
1936 | 1,517 |
1937 | 1,542 |
1938 | 1,561 |
1939 | 1,475 |
1940 | 1,567 |
1941 | 1,667 |
1942 | 2,395 |
1943 | 2,616 |
1944 | 2,162 |
1945 | 2,631 |
1946 | 2,130 |
1947 | 2,355 |
1948 | 2,478 |
1949 | 2,519 |
1950 | 2,713 |
1951 | 2,733 |
1952 | 2,995 |
1953 | 3,100 |
1954 | 3,367 |
1955 | 3,435 |
1956 | 3,907 |
1957 | 4,081 |
1958 | 3,738 |
1959 | 3,817 |
1960 | 4,187 |
1961 | 4,299 |
1962 | 4,209 |
1963 | 4,055 |
1964 | 3,945 |
1965 | 3,683 |
1966 | 3,267 |
1967 | 3,195 |
1968 | 2,942 |
1969 | 3,042 |
1970 | 3,087 |
1971 | 2,888 |
1972 | 2,619 |
1973 | 2,578 |
1974 | 2,623 |
1975 | 2,679 |
1976 | 2,527 |
1977 | 2,550 |
1978 | 2,549 |
1979 | 2,634 |
1980 | 2,823 |
1981 | 2,842 |
1982 | 3,002 |
1983 | 2,970 |
1984 | 3,177 |
1985 | 3,342 |
1986 | 3,293 |
1987 | 3,307 |
1988 | 3,629 |
1989 | 3,905 |
1990 | 4,445 |
1991 | 4,335 |
1992 | 4,292 |
1993 | 4,207 |
1994 | 4,055 |
1995 | 4,096 |
1996 | 3,924 |
1997 | 3,701 |
1998 | 3,997 |
1999 | 4,016 |
2000 | 4,053 |
2001 | 3,921 |
2002 | 3,935 |
2003 | 4,436 |
2004 | 4,289 |
2005 | 4,140 |
2006 | 4,312 |
2007 | 4,274 |
2008 | 3,781 |
2009 | 3,544 |
2010 | 3,180 |
2011 | 2,893 |
2012 | 2,873 |
2013 | 2,731 |
2014 | 2,689 |
2015 | 2,573 |
2016 | 2,461 |
2017 | 2,409 |
2018 | 2,224 |
2019 | 2,104 |
2020 | 1,904 |
2021 | 1,816 |
2022 | 1,770 |
2023 | 1,696 |
2024 | 1,674 |