Find out how popular the first name Pearline has been for the last 43 years (from 1974 to 2016) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Pearline by gender

Based on the last 43 years of data, Pearline is exclusively a female name.

For the most recent data in 2016, there were 5 female babies and 0 male babies born with the name Pearline.

The history of the first name Pearline

The name Pearline is a feminine given name derived from the English word "pearl." Its origins can be traced back to the late 19th century when it first gained popularity as a name choice. The name is a combination of the word "pearl," which refers to the precious gemstone formed within oyster shells, and the common feminine suffix "-ine."

While the name itself does not have any direct historical references in ancient texts or religious scriptures, the word "pearl" has been revered throughout history in various cultures. Pearls have been associated with beauty, purity, and wealth, making the name Pearline a fitting choice for parents seeking a name that evokes these qualities.

One of the earliest recorded examples of the name Pearline can be found in the United States Census records from the late 19th century. During this time, the name was likely inspired by the growing popularity of pearl jewelry and the romanticization of the pearl as a symbol of elegance and refinement.

Throughout history, several notable individuals have borne the name Pearline, including:

1. Pearline Jeffries (1864-1945), an American educator and activist who advocated for the rights of African American women in the early 20th century.
2. Pearline Wilson (1903-1988), an American actress and vaudeville performer who was one of the first African American women to appear in films in the 1920s.
3. Pearline Curry (1909-1986), an American jazz singer and actress known for her performances in nightclubs and on Broadway during the Harlem Renaissance era.
4. Pearline Redmond (1919-2002), an American politician who served as the first African American woman elected to the Texas House of Representatives in 1967.
5. Pearline Sweete (1933-2011), a Jamaican singer and songwriter who was a pioneering figure in the development of ska and rocksteady music in the 1960s.

These individuals, along with many others throughout history, have helped to shape the legacy and significance of the name Pearline, contributing to its enduring appeal as a name choice that evokes beauty, strength, and resilience.

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

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

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