Find out how popular the first name Jet has been for the last 49 years (from 1975 to 2023) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Jet by gender

Based on the last 49 years of data, Jet is more commonly used as a male name, with approximately 96% of people named Jet being male.

For the most recent data in 2023, there were 145 male babies and 12 female babies born with the name Jet.

Yes—according to the SSA data, 12 baby girls were named Jet in 2023, despite it being a predominantly male name. We'd love to know why!

The history of the first name Jet

The given name Jet has its origins in the English language, emerging in the 20th century as a modern invention. It is derived from the word "jet," which refers to the black gemstone or the forceful stream of liquid or gas propelled from an engine. The name's association with speed, power, and modernity likely contributed to its adoption as a given name.

While the name Jet does not have a long historical lineage or roots in ancient cultures, it gained popularity in the latter half of the 20th century, particularly in Western countries. Its rise coincided with the era of aviation and space exploration, lending it a sense of adventure and technological advancement.

One of the earliest known bearers of the name Jet was Jet Blake, an American actress born in 1932. She appeared in several films and television shows throughout the 1950s and 1960s, including roles in "The Twilight Zone" and "The Fugitive."

Another notable individual named Jet was Jet Harris, a British musician and bassist who rose to fame in the 1960s as a member of the instrumental rock group The Shadows. He was born in 1939 and played a significant role in shaping the sound of early rock and roll.

In the literary world, Jet Newell was an American poet and author born in 1934. Her works explored themes of nature, spirituality, and the human experience. She published several collections of poetry throughout her career.

The name Jet also found its way into the world of sports. Jet Reid was an Australian rules footballer who played for the St Kilda Football Club in the Australian Football League (AFL) during the 1970s and 1980s. Born in 1954, he was a versatile player known for his skill and athleticism on the field.

Finally, Jet Idzig was a Dutch painter and artist born in 1914. He was part of the Amsterdam Impressionist movement and gained recognition for his vibrant landscapes and cityscapes. His works are displayed in various museums and galleries throughout the Netherlands.

While the name Jet may not have ancient roots or prominent historical figures bearing it, its modern origins and associations with speed, advancement, and modernity have contributed to its appeal and adoption in recent decades, particularly in Western cultures.

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

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

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