Find out how popular the first name Thelonious has been for the last 50 years (from 1975 to 2024) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Thelonious by gender

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

For the most recent data in 2024, there were 16 male babies and 0 female babies born with the name Thelonious.

The history of the first name Thelonious

The name Thelonious is a unique and relatively modern name with its origins shrouded in mystery. It is believed to be a coined name, created from a blend of existing words or names, but its precise derivation is unclear.

One theory suggests that Thelonious may have been inspired by the Greek word "thelein," meaning "to wish" or "to desire." This potential connection could imply a meaning related to aspiration or longing. However, there is no definitive evidence to support this proposed etymology.

Another possibility is that Thelonious was derived from the name Thelonious Sphere Monk, a legendary American jazz pianist and composer born in 1917. His unique first name may have been an original creation, perhaps inspired by his family's artistic leanings or his own musical aspirations.

While the name Thelonious does not appear in any ancient texts or historical records, its modern usage can be traced back to the mid-20th century. The earliest recorded example of the name is Thelonious Sphere Monk himself, who became a pioneering figure in the development of bebop and modern jazz.

In addition to Thelonious Monk, several other notable individuals have borne this distinctive name throughout history. One such person is Thelonious Martin, an American actor and filmmaker born in 1937, best known for his roles in classic films like "Cooley High" and "Car Wash."

Another Thelonious of note is Thelonious Bernard, an American musician and composer born in 1929, who played a significant role in the free jazz movement of the 1960s and 1970s.

Thelonious Cornelius Chase, born in 1916, was an American actor and comedian who appeared in films such as "The Reivers" and "Diamonds Are Forever."

Lastly, Thelonious Rose, born in 1935, was an American basketball player who played in the National Basketball Association (NBA) for teams like the Philadelphia Warriors and the St. Louis Hawks.

While the name Thelonious remains relatively uncommon, these notable individuals have contributed to its recognition and continued use, particularly in artistic and cultural circles influenced by the legacy of Thelonious Monk and the Jazz Age.

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

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

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