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

Popularity of Fern by gender

Based on the last 50 years of data, Fern is more commonly used as a female name, with approximately 100% of people named Fern being female.

For the most recent data in 2023, there were 156 female babies and 0 male babies born with the name Fern.

The history of the first name Fern

The name Fern derives from the Old English word 'fearn', which means the plant of the same name. It is rooted in the ancient Proto-Germanic word 'farno', which had the same meaning. The name was used in Anglo-Saxon England as early as the 8th century AD.

The fern plant has long been associated with luck, sincerity, and humility in various cultures. Its evergreen nature and ability to thrive in shaded areas made it a symbol of resilience and endurance. As a given name, Fern was likely meant to bestow these qualities upon the bearer.

One of the earliest recorded instances of Fern as a first name is Fern Grogan, an American opera singer born in 1857. In the late 19th century, the name gained popularity in the United States, particularly in rural areas where the fern plant was abundant.

Notable individuals named Fern throughout history include Fern Michaels (born 1933), an American writer of romance and thriller novels. Fern Andra (1893-1974) was a Canadian actress and singer who performed in vaudeville and on Broadway. Fern Hobbs (1883-1962) was an English-born American stage and film actress active in the early 20th century.

Fern Holland (1909-1975) was a British actress and singer who appeared in several films in the 1930s and 1940s. Fern Blodgett (1891-1977) was an American tennis player who won several major singles and doubles titles in the early 20th century.

The name Fern has remained a relatively uncommon choice in most English-speaking countries, but its natural associations and historical roots have ensured its enduring appeal as a unique and meaningful given name.

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 Fern was researched and written by our team of onomatology and genealogy experts.

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

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