Burgess
Burgess is a boy's name of English origin.
Meaning
Freeman of a borough, citizen, or townsperson.
Origin and history
Burgess is an English masculine name derived from an Anglo-Norman surname meaning inhabitant of a borough or a freeman. Historically used in medieval England to denote a citizen with civic rights, it later transitioned into a rare given name. In the United States, it enjoyed moderate usage in the early-to-mid 20th century but is now very uncommon.
Popularity in the United States
1,089 babies in the United States have been named Burgess since 1880. It ranks #3598 all-time.
States where it is most popular
- KY (45 %)
- NC (30 %)
- WV (25 %)
Trends by decade
| Decade | Births |
|---|---|
| 1880-1890 | 5 |
| 1890-1900 | 11 |
| 1900-1910 | 13 |
| 1910-1920 | 162 |
| 1920-1930 | 208 |
| 1930-1940 | 154 |
| 1940-1950 | 177 |
| 1950-1960 | 114 |
| 1960-1970 | 95 |
| 1970-1980 | 64 |
| 1980-1990 | 58 |
| 1990-2000 | 16 |
| 2000-2010 | 5 |
| 2010-2019 | 7 |
| 2020-2029 | 0 |
Famous people named Burgess
- Burgess Meredith: Actor, Director
- Burgess Jenkins: Actor
Fun facts
- The term originates from the Old French word 'burgeis', used in feudal times to denote a inhabitant who held special civic privileges.
- Famed actor Burgess Meredith brought prominent public recognition to the name during the 20th century.