Find out how popular the first name Thistle has been for the last 12 years (from 2012 to 2023) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Thistle by gender

Based on the last 12 years of data, Thistle is exclusively a female name.

For the most recent data in 2023, there were 5 female babies and 0 male babies born with the name Thistle.

The history of the first name Thistle

The given name Thistle has its origins in the Old English word þistel, which referred to the prickly plant of the same name. This word is derived from the Proto-Germanic *þistilaz, which in turn comes from the Proto-Indo-European root *trsten-, meaning "to sting or prick."

In ancient times, the thistle plant held significant symbolism in various cultures. In Celtic mythology, the thistle was associated with the notion of endurance and resilience due to its hardy nature and ability to thrive in harsh environments. The thistle is also the national emblem of Scotland, where it has been revered for centuries.

While the name Thistle is not commonly found in ancient texts or religious scriptures, its botanical origins and symbolic connections make it a unique and intriguing choice for a given name.

One of the earliest recorded instances of the name Thistle can be found in the 17th century, when it was used as a masculine name in Scotland. However, over time, it has been more commonly adopted as a feminine name.

Throughout history, several notable individuals have borne the name Thistle. For instance, Thistle Yolette (1828-1885) was a Scottish author and poet known for her works celebrating Scottish culture and heritage. Another notable figure was Thistle Wick (1892-1966), an American artist and illustrator renowned for her intricate botanical illustrations.

In the realm of literature, Thistle Harris (1917-2004) was an American novelist and short story writer whose works often explored themes of identity and family dynamics. On the other hand, Thistle MacLeod (1935-2008) was a Canadian actress and playwright who made significant contributions to the theater scene in her home country.

Last but not least, Thistle Pettersen (1944-2018) was a Norwegian environmentalist and activist who dedicated her life to advocating for sustainable practices and raising awareness about the impact of human activities on the natural world.

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

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

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