Find out how popular the first name Samwise has been for the last 22 years (from 2002 to 2023) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Samwise by gender

Based on the last 22 years of data, Samwise is exclusively a male name.

For the most recent data in 2023, there were 12 male babies and 0 female babies born with the name Samwise.

The history of the first name Samwise

The name Samwise is a modern invention, likely created by J.R.R. Tolkien for the character Samwise Gamgee in his famous fantasy novel series The Lord of the Rings. The name appears to be a combination of the English words "sam" and "wise," suggesting a wise or sensible person.

While the name itself is a modern creation, its roots can be traced back to the Old English name "Samuel," which is derived from the Hebrew name "Shemuel," meaning "name of God" or "God has heard." The name Samuel has a long and rich history, appearing in the Bible as the name of an important prophet and judge in ancient Israel.

The earliest recorded use of the name Samwise is, of course, in Tolkien's The Lord of the Rings, which was published in the mid-20th century. Samwise Gamgee, often referred to as Sam, is a loyal companion and friend to the story's protagonist, Frodo Baggins, and plays a crucial role in the quest to destroy the One Ring.

Beyond Tolkien's legendary character, there are a few notable individuals who have borne the name Samwise, although it remains relatively uncommon. One example is Samwise Didier, an American artist and concept designer who has worked on various video game franchises, such as World of Warcraft and Diablo.

Another notable Samwise is Samwise Morse, a British actor and voice artist known for his work in video games and animated series. He has provided voices for characters in popular franchises like Star Wars and Marvel's Avengers.

While the name Samwise may not have a deep historical or cultural significance, its association with Tolkien's beloved character has given it a unique place in popular culture and literature. It has become a symbol of loyalty, bravery, and friendship, capturing the essence of Samwise Gamgee's character and his unwavering support for Frodo on their perilous journey.

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

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

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