Heather

What does the baby name Heather mean? Learn about what Heather means, its history & origin, popularity in our random name database, pronunciation, similar names, nicknames & spelling variations.

Heather - Name Meaning, Origin & Popularity

Spelling of Heather
H-E-A-T-H-E-R, is a 7-letter female given name.
Pronunciation of Heather
HE-dhər
HEH ther
Meaning of Heather
Flower, heather plant, flowering plant, a flowering plant, heather.
Origin of Heather
The name 'Heather' has its roots in the English language. It is derived from the plant of the same name, which is known for its delicate purple flowers and sweet fragrance. The earliest known use of the name can be traced back to the 19th century, when it began to gain popularity as a given name for girls. Its association with the plant gives it a natural and soothing quality.
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Old English Names
Popularity of Heather
Over time, the popularity of the name 'Heather' has experienced various trends and notable spikes. In the mid-20th century, it reached its peak popularity in the United States, ranking among the top 10 names for girls. This surge in usage can be attributed to its association with the character 'Heather' Chandler in the popular 1988 film 'Heather 's'. However, in recent years, the name has declined in popularity, giving way to newer and trendier names.
Heather currently has 1798 likes, and is in the top 1% of liked girl's names. The name Melissa is slightly more popular than Heather.

Etymology of Heather

The etymology of the name 'Heather' can be traced back to the Old English word 'hǣþer', which means 'heather'. This word has its roots in the Germanic language, specifically the West Germanic dialects. The name 's linguistic origins give it a sense of heritage and connection to nature.

Cultural Significance of Heather

While the name 'Heather' does not have significant cultural associations, it does have a symbolic connection to the heather plant. In Celtic folklore, the heather plant is believed to possess protective and healing properties. It is often associated with good luck and positive energy. Therefore, the name 'Heather' can evoke a sense of positivity and resilience.