Find out how popular the first name Buster has been for the last 50 years (from 1974 to 2023) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Buster by gender

Based on the last 50 years of data, Buster is exclusively a male name.

For the most recent data in 2023, there were 12 male babies and 0 female babies born with the name Buster.

The history of the first name Buster

The name Buster originated as a nickname derived from the word "burster," which referred to someone who broke things or was destructive. It first emerged in the early 19th century, likely in the United States or Britain. The earliest known use of the name dates back to 1834, when it was used as a character's name in a British novel.

One of the most famous individuals with the name Buster was the American actor and filmmaker Buster Keaton (1895-1966). Known for his deadpan expression and physical comedy, Keaton was a pioneer of early cinema and starred in numerous silent films during the 1920s.

Another notable figure with the name Buster was Buster Crabbe (1908-1983), an American athlete and actor who won a gold medal in swimming at the 1932 Olympics. He later portrayed popular characters like Flash Gordon and Buck Rogers in various film serials.

In the realm of music, Buster Poindexter (born 1951) is the stage name of American singer and songwriter Robert Reinhold Velline, known for his energetic performances and blending of various musical styles, including rock, pop, and calypso.

The name Buster also has historical connections to World War II. Buster Crabb (1909-1956) was a British Royal Navy diver who went missing during a secret reconnaissance mission in 1956, leading to speculation about his fate.

Another notable figure was Buster Brown, a fictional character created by Richard F. Outcault in 1902 for a popular comic strip of the same name. The character, along with his dog Tige, became a cultural icon and inspired various merchandising products.

While the name Buster initially carried connotations of rambunctiousness or mischievousness, it has evolved over time to become a more commonly accepted given name, particularly in English-speaking countries. Its enduring popularity can be attributed to its association with notable individuals and its distinctive, playful sound.

Data source

The first name data used on this page comes from the Social Security Administration (SSA). They've been collecting data on baby names since 1880.

The history and meaning of the name Buster was researched and written by our team of onomatology and genealogy experts.

If you have a correction or suggestion to improve the history of Buster, please contact us.

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