Declining since 2012.
Popularity of Talmage since 1881
Babies named Talmage per year in U.S. Social Security records. Raw births topped out in 1922, but relative to how few babies were recorded back then, Talmage's real moment was 1895.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Boys |
|---|---|
| 1880s | 26 |
| 1890s | 62 |
| 1900s | 32 |
| 1910s | 291 |
| 1920s | 419 |
| 1930s | 292 |
| 1940s | 192 |
| 1950s | 128 |
| 1960s | 86 |
| 1970s | 60 |
| 1980s | 77 |
| 1990s | 90 |
| 2000s | 242 |
| 2010s | 228 |
| 2020s | 56 |
Meaning & origin
Talmage is a historical rarity that peaked in popularity during the 1890s, reaching its highest rank in 1895. The name has been in steady decline since around 2012, and it did not appear in the top 1000 names for 2023. With an estimated 1-in-N incidence well below common thresholds, Talmage remains a distinctive choice. Its top states of use are concentrated in the southern United States, reflecting a heritage preference. The name's rarity today makes it a strong candidate for parents seeking an uncommon name with a historical feel.
Talmage is an English surname that may derive from the Old English elements 'talu' (lake, pool) and 'mæcg' (bridge, path), or from a place name. Its use as a given name began in the late 19th century, likely influenced by the family name of U.S. Senator and Vice Presidential candidate John N. Talmadge.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Tal
Variants: Talmadge
Sibling names for Talmage
Names that share Talmage's style, for a brother or sister.
