Boy · 358th of 23,106
Desmond
Meaning, origin and U.S. popularity at a glance
39,419
Total Births
145
Years of Data
1992
Peak Popularity Year
1,079
Peak Births
Generational story
Where Desmond stands across generations
Rankings for U.S. births from 2013 to 2024.
Based on the most recent three-year movement in the national data.
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Meaning, origin & U.S. popularity
Summary
Desmond is an Irish name meaning 'from southern Munster.' It evolved from the Gaelic 'Deas-Mhumhna' and has seen historical significance in Irish culture. The name is characterized by a strong connection to regional identity and has gained popularity in the 20th century. It has no biblical relevance but is well-regarded today, often seen as a blend of tradition and modernity, with notable figures contributing to its recognition.
Etymology & cultural background Open the full meaning, origin, history, and variants
Etymology & Cultural Background
Pronunciation
/ˈdɛzmənd/
Origin
Irish
Etymology
The name Desmond is derived from the Gaelic 'Deas-Mhumhna', which means 'south Munster'. Munster is one of the provinces of Ireland, and the name refers to the southern part of that region.
Meaning
from southern Munster
Language Evolution
Deas-Mhumhna, Desmond
Historical Usage
Desmond gained popularity as a given name in the 20th century, particularly in English-speaking countries, influenced by its association with the Earl of Desmond in Irish history.
Variants & Derivatives
Des, Dez
Modern Popularity & Image
Currently, Desmond is perceived as a traditional yet modern name, often associated with strength and heritage.
Famous People
Desmond Tutu, Desmond Dekker
Trend Analysis
Boy Name Trend
Recent 3-Year Analysis
3-Year Trend:
Stable
25-Year Trend:
Relatively Stable
Girl Name Trend
Recent 3-Year Analysis
3-Year Trend:
Stable
25-Year Trend:
Relatively Stable
Explore popularity by location
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Key Insights
Popularity Trend
Highly Popular name with 1,079 peak births in 1992
Geographic Spread
Popular across 51 US states, with strongest presence in Louisiana
Historical Span
Data spanning 145 years from 1880 to 2024, showing long-term trends
Generational Impact
Influenced 11 different American generations with varying popularity
Historical Birth Statistics
Note: Years with identical rankings may represent different numbers of births. Data is sourced from Social Security card applications for births in the United States.
Yearly Ranking History
Full popularity table across American generations 11 generation and gender records
Popularity Across American Generations
| Generation | Gender | Rank | Recorded births |
|---|---|---|---|
| G.I. Generation (1901-1927) | Boy | 1290th of 7545 | 502 |
| Silent Generation (1928-1945) | Boy | 1431st of 6773 | 419 |
| Baby Boomers (1946-1964) | Boy | 960th of 7552 | 1,141 |
| Generation X (Gen X) (1965-1980) | Boy | 496th of 10718 | 4,246 |
| Millennials (Gen Y) (1981-1996) | Boy | 353rd of 16616 | 10,363 |
| Generation Z (Gen Z or Zoomers) (1997-2012) | Boy | 392nd of 24088 | 11,328 |
| Generation Alpha (2013-2024) | Boy | 358th of 23106 | 11,187 |
| Generation X (Gen X) (1965-1980) | Girl | 10176th of 19264 | 44 |
| Millennials (Gen Y) (1981-1996) | Girl | 8391st of 27321 | 129 |
| Generation Z (Gen Z or Zoomers) (1997-2012) | Girl | 17542nd of 35406 | 55 |
| Generation Alpha (2013-2024) | Girl | 30306th of 30306 | 5 |