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

Popularity of Princeton by gender

Based on the last 50 years of data, Princeton is exclusively a male name.

For the most recent data in 2023, there were 531 male babies and 0 female babies born with the name Princeton.

The history of the first name Princeton

The given name Princeton has its origins in the English language and can be traced back to the late 17th century. It is believed to have derived from the combination of two Old English words, "prince" and "ton," which together translate to "prince's town" or "chief's settlement." This connection suggests that the name was initially associated with a place of importance or a settlement governed by a prince or ruler.

One of the earliest recorded uses of the name Princeton dates back to 1756 when it was given to a town in New Jersey, United States. The town was named after Prince William III of Orange, who was a prominent figure in the late 17th century and played a significant role in the history of the Netherlands and England. This association with royalty further reinforces the name's ties to nobility and leadership.

Throughout history, several notable individuals have borne the name Princeton. One of the most famous was Princeton Tener (1865-1935), an American baseball player who played for the Chicago White Stockings (now the Chicago Cubs) in the late 19th century. He was a talented pitcher and later became a successful coach and manager.

Another prominent figure was Princeton Hightower (1900-1981), an American civil rights activist and educator. He dedicated his life to fighting for racial equality and improving educational opportunities for African Americans in the segregated South during the mid-20th century.

In the field of literature, Princeton Williamson (1920-2003) was an American author and poet known for his works exploring themes of African American culture and identity. His most notable work, "The Homecoming," published in 1968, received critical acclaim and is considered a significant contribution to the Harlem Renaissance literary movement.

The name Princeton also holds historical significance in the realm of academia. Princeton University, one of the most prestigious institutions of higher education in the United States, was founded in 1746 and named after the aforementioned town of Princeton, New Jersey. The university has produced numerous notable alumni, including several presidents, Nobel laureates, and influential scholars.

Finally, Princeton Lyman (born 1944) is a former United States diplomat and ambassador who served in various roles during the latter half of the 20th century. He played a crucial role in shaping American foreign policy, particularly in regards to Africa and the Middle East.

While the name Princeton may not be as common as other given names, its rich history and connections to notable individuals, places, and institutions have solidified its place in the annals of cultural and historical significance.

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

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

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