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

Popularity of Ginger by gender

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

For the most recent data in 2023, there were 49 female babies and 0 male babies born with the name Ginger.

The history of the first name Ginger

The name Ginger originates from the Middle English word "ginger," which was derived from the Old French "gingembre" and ultimately traced back to the Sanskrit "srngavera." This name was initially used as a descriptive term for the distinctive reddish-brown spice obtained from the ginger plant.

In the 13th century, the term "ginger" began to be employed as a nickname or diminutive form of the name Virginia. This usage was likely inspired by the similarity in sound between the words "ginger" and "Virginia," as well as the association with the reddish-brown color of the spice.

The earliest recorded instance of Ginger as a given name can be found in the 16th century. One notable example is Ginger Rogers, the renowned American actress, dancer, and singer born in 1911. She was known for her successful partnership with Fred Astaire and for her remarkable contributions to musical films.

Another influential figure bearing the name Ginger was Ginger Baker, the legendary English drummer and co-founder of the influential rock band Cream. Born in 1939, he was widely regarded as one of the most influential drummers in rock music history.

In the literary world, Ginger Pye is the titular character of a children's novel by Eleanor Estes, published in 1951. The book follows the adventures of a spirited and mischievous dog named Ginger Pye, captivating young readers with its endearing storyline.

Ginger Garrett, born in 1963, is an American author and speaker known for her novels and non-fiction works exploring faith, history, and contemporary issues. Her works have garnered critical acclaim and influenced readers worldwide.

Ginger Granger, born in 1963, is a British actress and author who has graced both the stage and screen. She is particularly renowned for her role as Hermione Granger in the Harry Potter film series, which catapulted her to international fame.

Throughout history, the name Ginger has been associated with vibrant and spirited personalities, drawing inspiration from the zesty spice that shares its name. While its origins can be traced back to the Middle Ages, it continues to be a popular and enduring choice for parents seeking a unique and distinctive name for their children.

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

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

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