Given

Meaning & origin

Given is a rare name that first appeared in the 1920s (first recorded in 1925) but has never reached the top 1000. Its peak year was 2018, after which its usage began to decline, falling steadily since 2019. The name's trajectory suggests it remains a truly uncommon choice, with no data points for a 1-in-N rate (meaning it is too rare to calculate) and no strong association with any particular state. Given is typical of modern coinages or unusual surname transfers that appeal to parents seeking a distinctive, word-like name. Its etymology is uncertain, and it may be related to the Welsh Gwyn or simply a word meaning 'bestowed,' but the lack of a clear historical lineage adds to its contemporary, open-ended feel.

Given first appeared as a given name in the early 20th century, possibly as a transferred use of the English surname Given, which itself derived from a place name or from the Welsh personal name Gwyn. It has also been used as a word name evoking the idea of a gift or something bestowed. Given gained modest attention in the United States from the 2010s onward, particularly following the birth of Beyoncé's daughter Blue Ivy (though Blue Ivy is not Given), and has seen occasional use for both sexes.