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Arthur Name Meaning UK

Introduction

Choosing a name for your child is an important decision that can shape their identity for life. Arthur is a classic name that has been popular for centuries and has a rich history and meaning. In this article, we will explore the origin, popularity, famous people, literature, and history associated with the name Arthur in the UK.

Origin and Meaning

The name Arthur is of Celtic origin and means 'bear'. It was a popular name among the ancient Britons and was borne by legendary kings and warriors, including King Arthur, who is said to have defended Britain against the Saxon invaders in the 5th or 6th century. The name Arthur was also popular among the Normans, who brought it to England after the Norman Conquest in 1066. It has remained a popular name in the UK ever since.

Popularity

Arthur has been a consistently popular name in the UK for centuries. According to the Office for National Statistics, it was the 23rd most popular name for boys in 2020, with 2,659 babies given the name. It has been in the top 100 names for boys since records began in 1904 and reached its peak in the 1920s and 1930s. It then declined in popularity until the 1990s, when it began to rise again. Today, it is a popular choice for parents who want a classic, timeless name for their son.

Famous People

There have been many famous people throughout history with the name Arthur. King Arthur is perhaps the most famous, but there have also been many notable figures in literature, politics, and entertainment. Some of the most famous Arthurs include: - Arthur Conan Doyle, the author of the Sherlock Holmes stories - Arthur Miller, the playwright - Arthur Ashe, the tennis player - Arthur Wellesley, the Duke of Wellington, who defeated Napoleon at the Battle of Waterloo - Arthur Balfour, the Prime Minister of the UK from 1902 to 1905 - Arthur Scargill, the leader of the National Union of Mineworkers during the 1984-85 miners' strike These are just a few examples of the many famous people who have borne the name Arthur throughout history.

Literature

Arthur has been a popular name in literature for centuries. In addition to King Arthur and the Knights of the Round Table, there have been many other literary characters named Arthur. Some of the most famous include: - Arthur Dent, the protagonist of Douglas Adams' 'The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy' - Arthur Clennam, the protagonist of Charles Dickens' 'Little Dorrit' - Arthur Kipps, the protagonist of Susan Hill's 'The Woman in Black' - Arthur Hastings, the sidekick of Agatha Christie's detective Hercule Poirot These characters have helped to keep the name Arthur in the public consciousness and have contributed to its enduring popularity.

History

The name Arthur has a rich history that spans centuries. It has been associated with legendary kings and warriors, as well as with literary characters and famous people in politics, entertainment, and sports. Today, it remains a popular choice for parents who want a classic, timeless name for their son. Whether you choose the name Arthur because of its meaning, its history, or simply because you like the sound of it, it is a name that is sure to stand the test of time.