Wade
Wade is a boy's name of English origin.
Meaning
To go, a ford, or a river crossing.
Origin and history
Wade is a traditional English name derived from an Old English surname and topographic name referring to a river crossing or ford. Historically present in the U.S., it experienced steady usage through the 20th century and has seen a mild resurgence in recent years. It presents a strong, single-syllable masculine choice with nature and historical roots.
Popularity in the United States
76,498 babies in the United States have been named Wade since 1880. It ranks #383 all-time. Among babies born since 2020 it ranks #338.
States where it is most popular
- TX (7.2 %)
- CA (6.6 %)
- NC (6.4 %)
- PA (4.3 %)
- OH (4.1 %)
Trends by decade
| Decade | Births |
|---|---|
| 1880-1890 | 523 |
| 1890-1900 | 530 |
| 1900-1910 | 557 |
| 1910-1920 | 2,331 |
| 1920-1930 | 3,538 |
| 1930-1940 | 3,094 |
| 1940-1950 | 4,293 |
| 1950-1960 | 8,531 |
| 1960-1970 | 12,866 |
| 1970-1980 | 10,425 |
| 1980-1990 | 6,973 |
| 1990-2000 | 5,987 |
| 2000-2010 | 4,494 |
| 2010-2019 | 6,506 |
| 2020-2029 | 5,850 |
Famous people named Wade
- Wade Boggs: Athlete, Baseball Player
- Wade Hampton III: Politician, Military Officer
Fun facts
- In Germanic and Norse mythology, Wada was a legendary giant associated with the sea and water crossings.
- It originally described someone who lived near a ford or shallow spot in a river where one could wade across.