Thunder Name: Complete Etymology, Meaning & Popularity Analysis
Summary
The name 'Thunder' originates from the Old English word for the sound of thunder, tracing back to Proto-Germanic and Proto-Indo-European roots. It symbolizes strength and power, with connections to mythology. There are no biblical references associated with the name. It has evolved over time and is perceived positively in modern contexts, often linked to nature and heroism.
Etymology & Cultural Background of "Thunder"
Pronunciation
/ˈθʌndər/
Origin
Old English
Etymology
The name 'Thunder' comes from the Old English word 'þunor', which is derived from the Proto-Germanic '*þunraz', meaning 'thunder'. This word is related to the Norse god Thor, who is associated with thunder and storms.
Meaning
The sound produced by a sudden discharge of atmospheric electricity.
Language Evolution
Old English: þunor, Proto-Germanic: *þunraz, Proto-Indo-European: *bher- (to roar)
Historical Usage
The name gained popularity in various cultures as a symbol of strength and power, particularly in Norse mythology and later in literature and popular culture.
Variants & Derivatives
Thundra, Thundar
Modern Popularity & Image
Currently, 'Thunder' is perceived as a strong and powerful name, often associated with nature and mythology. It is used in various contexts, including as a name for brands, characters, and pets.
Famous People
Thunder Cats (fictional characters), Thunderbolt and Lightfoot (movie title)
📊 Thunder Name Trend Analysis
Boy Name Trend
Recent 3-Year Analysis
Explore More Thunder Name Visualizations
✨ Thunder Name Meaning & Significance
Popularity Trend
Less Common name with 30 peak births in 2018
Geographic Spread
Popular across 1 US states, with strongest presence in California
Historical Span
Data spanning 145 years from 1880 to 2024, showing long-term trends
Generational Impact
Influenced 4 different American generations with varying popularity
Historical Birth Statistics for the Name "Thunder"
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 of "Thunder"
"Thunder" Popularity Across American Generations
| Generation | Gender | Rank | Total Names |
|---|---|---|---|
| Generation X (Gen X) (1965-1980) | Boy | 8553rd of 10718 | 14 |
| Millennials (Gen Y) (1981-1996) | Boy | 6617th of 16616 | 87 |
| Generation Z (Gen Z or Zoomers) (1997-2012) | Boy | 5670th of 24088 | 218 |
| Generation Alpha (2013-2024) | Boy | 5081st of 23106 | 223 |
Regional Popularity of "Thunder" by Generation for Male Names
| TOP(%) | MidWest | Northeast | South | West |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| G.I. Generation (1901-1927) |
- | - | - | - |
| Silent Generation (1928-1945) |
- | - | - | - |
| Baby Boomers (1946-1964) |
- | - | - | - |
| Generation X (Gen X) (1965-1980) |
- | - | - |
60.78% 2458th/4044 |
| Millennials (Gen Y) (1981-1996) |
- | - | - | - |
| Generation Z (Gen Z or Zoomers) (1997-2012) |
- | - | - | - |
| Generation Alpha (2013-2024) |
- | - | - |
75.38% 4731st/6276 |
Regional Popularity of "Thunder" by Generation for Female Names
| TOP(%) | MidWest | Northeast | South | West |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| G.I. Generation (1901-1927) |
- | - | - | - |
| Silent Generation (1928-1945) |
- | - | - | - |
| Baby Boomers (1946-1964) |
- | - | - | - |
| Generation X (Gen X) (1965-1980) |
- | - | - | - |
| Millennials (Gen Y) (1981-1996) |
- | - | - | - |
| Generation Z (Gen Z or Zoomers) (1997-2012) |
- | - | - | - |
| Generation Alpha (2013-2024) |
- | - | - | - |
State-by-State Popularity of "Thunder"
This map shows the relative popularity of "Thunder" across states, calculated by dividing the number of births with this name in each state by the total births in that state. This methodology provides a standardized measure of popularity regardless of state population size.
Comprehensive Regional & Generational Popularity Trends of "Thunder" in the United States
The name Thunder is most popular in California, USA across all generations. It ranks highest as a Boy name among the Generation Alpha generation in the West region. Recent 3-year trends show this Boy name is maintaining steady popularity, while the 25-year trend indicates it has been relatively stable. From 2020-2022, Thunder has been stalled for male in West. The long-term 25-year analysis reveals it has been stalled for male in West. Across generations, 'Thunder' has shown interesting popularity patterns: Among the Generation X (Gen X) (1965-1980), it ranked 8553rd out of 10718 names. Among the Millennials (Gen Y) (1981-1996), it ranked 6617th out of 16616 names. Among the Generation Z (Gen Z or Zoomers) (1997-2012), it ranked 5670th out of 24088 names. Among the Generation Alpha (2013-2024), it ranked 5081st out of 23106 names. Discover how the name 'Thunder' has evolved through American history with our comprehensive regional and generational analysis.