Washington

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What does the baby name Washington mean? Learn about what Washington means, its history & origin, popularity in our random name database, pronunciation, similar names, nicknames & spelling variations.

Washington - Name Meaning, Origin & Popularity

Spelling of Washington

W-A-S-H-I-N-G-T-O-N, is a 10-letter male given name.

Pronunciation of Washington

WAHSH-ing-tən

WASH ing tun

Meaning of Washington

From the town by the water, from the town of wassa's peopl, wassa settlement, town of the smart.

Origin of Washington

The name 'Washington' holds a special place in American history, as it is derived from the surname of the first President of the United States, George 'Washington'. However, the name itself predates the famous figure. It originates from Old English and is derived from the combination of two elements 'wassing' meaning 'to wash' and 'tun' meaning 'settlement' or 'enclosure'. Thus, the name 'Washington' can be interpreted as 'settlement by the water.'

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Popularity of Washington

The popularity of the name 'Washington' has experienced various trends throughout history. In the United States, it reached its peak during the late 18th century and early 19th century, coinciding with George 'Washington's presidency. During this time, the name was widely used as a tribute to the revered leader. However, its popularity gradually declined in the following centuries, and it is now considered a less common given name.

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Earliest Known Use of Washington

The earliest known use of the name 'Washington' can be traced back to the 12th century in England. It was primarily used as a surname, indicating the family's association with a particular settlement or region. Over time, the name gained prominence and became synonymous with the renowned historical figure, George 'Washington'.

Etymology of Washington

To understand the etymology of the name 'Washington', we must delve into its linguistic roots. As mentioned earlier, it is derived from Old English, where 'wassing' means 'to wash' and 'tun' means 'settlement' or 'enclosure'. The combination of these elements reflects the name's original meaning of a settlement near water. It is fascinating to see how the name has evolved over time, taking on new connotations and associations.

Cultural Significance of Washington

The name 'Washington' holds immense cultural significance in the United States. It is closely tied to the nation's history and serves as a symbol of patriotism and leadership. The name evokes images of George 'Washington', the founding father who played a pivotal role in shaping the country. Additionally, it has been adopted by various institutions, landmarks, and cities across the nation, further solidifying its cultural significance.