Holding steady.
Popularity of Burnham since 1912
Babies named Burnham per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Boys |
|---|---|
| 1910s | 45 |
| 1920s | 48 |
| 1930s | 17 |
| 1940s | 15 |
| 1950s | 5 |
| 1960s | 0 |
| 1970s | 0 |
| 1980s | 0 |
| 1990s | 0 |
| 2000s | 0 |
| 2010s | 0 |
| 2020s | 0 |
Meaning & origin
Burnham is a surname-turned-given-name with English topographic origins, meaning 'homestead by a stream.' First recorded as a first name in 1912, it reached its peak year of usage in 1918 during a period when surnames as first names gained modest popularity. Despite that peak, the name has never been common; the data shows a stable trajectory with no significant revival, and it has consistently remained outside the top 1000. Burnham is a low-frequency choice, with no top states indicating regional concentration. The name carries a distinguished, literary quality, reminiscent of English villages and pastoral imagery, making it an uncommon but recognizable option for parents seeking a distinctive name with historical depth.
Burnham is an English surname transferred to given name use. It derives from various places in England named Burnham, which in turn come from Old English 'burna' meaning 'stream' and 'ham' meaning 'homestead' or 'village'. The name has been used sparingly as a first name since the late 19th century, likely influenced by notable bearers of the surname such as the English architect Sir John Burnham (1881-1950).
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Burn, Burnie
Sibling names for Burnham
Names that share Burnham's style, for a brother or sister.
