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

Popularity of Honey by gender

Based on the last 50 years of data, Honey is exclusively a female name.

For the most recent data in 2023, there were 205 female babies and 0 male babies born with the name Honey.

The history of the first name Honey

The name Honey has a rich and intriguing history, originating from the English language and referring to the sweet, golden liquid produced by bees. This name gained popularity during the early modern period, particularly in the 16th and 17th centuries, when it was often used as a term of endearment or a pet name for a beloved individual.

One of the earliest recorded instances of the name Honey can be found in the works of Geoffrey Chaucer, the renowned English poet of the 14th century. In his Canterbury Tales, he mentions a character named "Honey" in the Nun's Priest's Tale, suggesting that the name was in use during that era.

In the 16th century, the name Honey appeared in various literary works, including plays by William Shakespeare. In his play "A Midsummer Night's Dream," the character Mustardseed refers to the fairy Peaseblossom as "Honey." This usage further reinforced the association of the name with sweetness and affection.

Throughout history, several notable individuals have borne the name Honey. One such figure was Honey Thaljiath (1932-2005), an Indian social activist and environmentalist known for her efforts in preserving the Western Ghats mountain range. Another remarkable individual was Honey Irani (1955-2003), an Iranian-American lawyer and human rights advocate who worked tirelessly to promote democracy and protect civil liberties.

In the realm of entertainment, Honey Rider (born 1946) is a British actress best known for her role as the first Bond girl, Honey Ryder, in the 1962 film "Dr. No." Honey Hollman (1920-1968) was an American singer and actress who performed in several Broadway musicals and films during the Golden Age of Hollywood.

Additionally, Honey Lanry (1918-2012) was a renowned French fashion designer and couturier, known for her elegant and sophisticated creations that were favored by high society in the mid-20th century.

The name Honey has transcended cultural boundaries and continues to evoke a sense of sweetness, warmth, and affection. Its enduring appeal lies in its ability to capture the essence of these qualities, making it a timeless and cherished choice for parents around the world.

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

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

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