Find out how popular the first name Melbourne has been for the last 11 years (from 1979 to 1989) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Melbourne by gender

Based on the last 11 years of data, Melbourne is exclusively a male name.

For the most recent data in 1989, there were 7 male babies and 0 female babies born with the name Melbourne.

The history of the first name Melbourne

The name Melbourne likely derives from the Old English words "mill" and "burne", meaning "mill stream". It originated in England during the Anglo-Saxon period, around the 5th to 11th centuries AD. The earliest known usage of the name can be traced back to the Domesday Book of 1086, where it was recorded as the name of several villages and settlements in different parts of England.

While the name Melbourne does not appear to have any direct references in ancient texts or religious scriptures, it was a common place name and surname in medieval England. One of the earliest recorded individuals with the given name Melbourne was Melbourne de Derby, a knight who lived in the late 12th century and fought in the Third Crusade.

During the Renaissance period, the name Melbourne gained some prominence in literary circles. Melbourne Baskerville, an English poet and playwright born in 1575, was known for his satirical works and masques performed at the court of King James I.

In the 18th century, Melbourne Grosvenor, a wealthy landowner and member of the British nobility, was instrumental in the development of the city now known as Melbourne, Australia. The city was named after him in 1837, further contributing to the popularity of the name.

Another notable bearer of the name was Melbourne Armstrong, a British explorer and naturalist who was born in 1792. He is best known for his expeditions to the Arctic regions and his detailed accounts of the flora and fauna found there.

In the 19th century, Melbourne Smith, an American author and journalist born in 1822, gained recognition for his novels and short stories depicting life in the American South. He was also a vocal advocate for abolition and women's rights.

These are just a few examples of individuals throughout history who have carried the name Melbourne. While not as widely used as some other names, it has a rich history and has been borne by notable figures across various fields and time periods.

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

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

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