Rutherford

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

Rutherford - Name Meaning, Origin & Popularity

Spelling of Rutherford
R-U-T-H-E-R-F-O-R-D, is a 10-letter male given name.
Pronunciation of Rutherford
RUTH ur ford
Meaning of Rutherford
From the cattle ford, cattle ford.
Origin of Rutherford
The name 'Rutherford' has its origins in the English language and can be traced back to medieval times. It is derived from two Old English words, 'hryðer' and 'ford', which mean 'cattle' and 'ford' respectively. The combination of these words gives the name 'Rutherford' its literal meaning of 'cattle ford' or 'ford where cattle cross.'

The earliest known use of the name 'Rutherford' can be found in historical records from the 12th century. It was primarily used as a surname to denote a person who lived near or owned land near a ford where cattle would cross. Over time, the name 'Rutherford' became more commonly used as a given name, carrying with it a sense of strength and connection to nature.
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Popularity of Rutherford
The popularity of the name 'Rutherford' has varied over time. In the early centuries, it was primarily used as a surname and was not as commonly used as a given name. However, in recent years, there has been a notable increase in the usage of 'Rutherford' as a first name. This rise in popularity can be attributed to the trend of parents seeking unique and distinctive names for their children.
Rutherford currently has 7 likes, and is in the top 8% of liked boy's names. The name Philbert is slightly more popular than Rutherford.

Etymology of Rutherford

The etymology of the name 'Rutherford' can be traced back to its Old English roots. The word 'hryðer' refers to cattle, symbolizing strength and abundance. The word 'ford' represents a crossing point, suggesting a connection to movement and journey. When combined, these elements create a name that embodies the qualities of strength, abundance, and the ability to navigate through life's challenges.

Cultural Significance of Rutherford

While the name 'Rutherford' does not have any specific cultural or historical significance, it carries a sense of tradition and heritage. It is a name that reflects a connection to nature and the land, which holds significance in various cultures that value the relationship between humans and their environment. Additionally, the use of surnames as given names has become a popular trend in many cultures, allowing individuals to honor their family history and ancestral roots.