Naming a baby can be a daunting task for parents, and choosing a name that can be used for both boys and girls has become increasingly popular in recent years. One such name that has caused confusion and curiosity among many is Arlen. But is Arlen a male, female or unisex name? In this article, we will explore the origins, meanings, and popularity of the name Arlen, and examine the concept of gender-neutral names in modern times.
The History of Arlen as a Name
The name Arlen is believed to have originated from Gaelic, meaning “pledge” or “oath”. It has been used as a surname for centuries, with notable individuals bearing the name, including American composer Harold Arlen and Irish poet John Arden. However, as a first name, its history is relatively recent.
In the United States, the name Arlen gained popularity in the early 20th century, particularly in the southern states. This may be attributed to the success of the 1929 novel “Arlen of Virginia” by J. Paul Suter, which featured a heroic character named Arlen. The name continued to be used throughout the 20th century, with notable individuals including Arlen Specter, a former United States Senator from Pennsylvania, and Arlen Ness, a famous motorcycle designer.
Arlen as a Boy’s Name: Origin and Meaning
In the United States, Arlen was first used as a boy’s name in the early 1900s. Its popularity peaked in the 1930s and 40s, likely due to the success of Harold Arlen’s compositions, including “Over the Rainbow” from The Wizard of Oz. As a boy’s name, Arlen is derived from the Gaelic meaning of “pledge” or “oath”, and is often associated with strength and loyalty.
Interestingly, Arlen is also a surname that has been traced back to the 13th century in Ireland. It is believed to have originated from the Gaelic word “O’hEarlain”, meaning “descendant of Earlan”. Earlan was a personal name that meant “nobleman” or “chieftain”. Today, Arlen is still used as both a first name and a surname, and its rich history and meaning continue to make it a popular choice for parents.
Arlen as a Girl’s Name: Origin and Meaning
In recent times, Arlen has also become more commonly used as a girl’s name. As a girl’s name, Arlen is derived from the Hebrew name “Arlene”, meaning “pledge” or “oath”. The popularity of Arlene as a girl’s name peaked in the 1940s and 50s, likely influenced by the popularity of Arlen as a boy’s name at that time. Some parents may choose Arlen as a gender-neutral name that can be used for a boy or a girl.
Interestingly, the name Arlen has also been used in literature and popular culture. In the novel “The Great Gatsby” by F. Scott Fitzgerald, one of the characters is named Arlen. Additionally, there is a famous American composer named Harold Arlen, who is known for writing many popular songs, including “Over the Rainbow” from the movie “The Wizard of Oz”.
Despite its historical popularity, the name Arlen is not as commonly used today. However, for parents looking for a unique and meaningful name for their daughter, Arlen may be a great choice.
The Popularity of Arlen Over Time
Although it was once a popular boy’s name, Arlen has never been a name that has been widely used. Its popularity has fluctuated throughout the years, with a decline in usage in recent times. According to the Social Security Administration’s records, Arlen was ranked as the 817th most popular boy’s name in the United States in 2020, with only 218 boys given the name. As a girl’s name, Arlen was not in the top 1000 in 2020, with fewer than five girls given the name.
Despite its lack of popularity, Arlen has been used as a character name in various forms of media. In the 1939 film “The Wizard of Oz,” the character of the Tin Man was originally named “Arlen.” Additionally, the name has been used in literature, such as in the novel “Arlen’s Harem” by John Steinbeck.
Interestingly, the name Arlen has roots in both Irish and English cultures. In Irish, the name means “pledge” or “oath,” while in English it is derived from the Old English words “earl” and “land,” meaning “nobleman” and “land,” respectively. This dual cultural heritage may contribute to the name’s unique appeal to some parents.
Famous People Named Arlen Throughout History
As previously mentioned, Arlen has primarily been used as a surname throughout history. However, there have been notable individuals with the given name Arlen, including Arlen Ness, an American motorcycle designer, and Arlen Specter, a former United States Senator from Pennsylvania. Additionally, the name has been used in various works of fiction, including F. Scott Fitzgerald’s novel, This Side of Paradise.
Another famous person named Arlen is Arlen Riley Wilson, an American composer and songwriter who wrote the music for several popular films and television shows in the 1950s and 1960s. He was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Original Song for the film “The Wonderful Country” in 1959.
In recent years, the name Arlen has become more popular as a given name for boys. According to the Social Security Administration, the name Arlen was ranked #994 in popularity for boys in the United States in 2020. This marks a significant increase from its ranking of #1,482 in 2010.
The Rise of Unisex Names in Modern Times
The idea of gender-neutral names has become increasingly popular in modern times. Parents may choose a name that can be used for both boys and girls as a way to provide their child with more options and reduce the impact of gender norms. Arlen can be seen as a gender-neutral name, although its history as a boy’s name may make it more closely associated with masculinity.
Studies have shown that the rise of unisex names is not just a trend, but a reflection of changing attitudes towards gender and identity. In addition to providing more options for children, gender-neutral names can also help to break down stereotypes and promote inclusivity. Some popular unisex names include Avery, Jordan, and Taylor, which have become increasingly common for both boys and girls in recent years.
Gender-Neutral Names Explained: The Concept Behind Them
Gender-neutral names are names that are not associated with any particular gender or sex. They are often chosen as a way to provide children with more choices and address the constraints and limitations of traditional gender norms. Examples of other gender-neutral names include Riley, Jordan, and Casey. Parents may choose a gender-neutral name for their child if they wish to raise them without gender expectations, or to prevent the bias and discrimination often associated with gendered names.
Gender-neutral names have become increasingly popular in recent years, as society becomes more accepting of non-binary gender identities. These names can also be a way for individuals to express their gender identity or to avoid assumptions about their gender based on their name. In addition, gender-neutral names can be a way to promote inclusivity and diversity in various settings, such as schools and workplaces. However, some people may still view gender-neutral names as unconventional or controversial, and may face criticism or discrimination as a result.
How to Choose the Perfect Name for Your Baby?
Choosing the perfect name for your baby can be a daunting task. There are countless options to consider, from family names to cultural traditions, to modern trends. Ultimately, the name you choose should reflect your wishes and priorities as a parent. It should also be a name that your child will feel comfortable with and proud of throughout their life.
One important factor to consider when choosing a name for your baby is its meaning. Many parents choose names based on their meanings, which can be a way to give their child a positive and meaningful start in life. For example, the name “Aria” means “air” or “song” and can be a beautiful choice for a child who loves music or has a free-spirited personality. Similarly, the name “Ethan” means “strong” or “firm,” which can be a great choice for a child who parents hope will grow up to be resilient and determined.
The Pros and Cons of Choosing a Unisex Name for Your Baby
There are both pros and cons to choosing a gender-neutral name for your baby. On the one hand, a gender-neutral name can provide your child with more options and reduce the impact of gender norms. It can also be a way to challenge traditional gender roles and expectations. On the other hand, a gender-neutral name may make it difficult for your child to identify with their gender or may lead to confusion or misunderstanding when they encounter individuals who assume their gender based on their name. Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to choose a gender-neutral name is a personal one, and should be based on your own values and priorities as a parent.
One potential benefit of choosing a unisex name is that it can help to avoid gender bias in certain situations. For example, studies have shown that job applicants with gender-neutral names are more likely to be hired than those with traditionally gendered names. Additionally, a unisex name can make it easier for your child to navigate situations where their gender may not be immediately apparent, such as when meeting new people online.
However, it’s important to consider the potential drawbacks of choosing a unisex name as well. For example, your child may face teasing or bullying from peers who don’t understand or accept their name. Additionally, some people may assume that your child is transgender or non-binary based on their name, which could lead to uncomfortable or invasive questions. Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to choose a unisex name should be made with careful consideration of your child’s needs and the potential impact on their life.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Arlen is a name with a rich history and multiple meanings, although it is primarily associated with pledges and oaths. Its use as a boy’s name has declined in recent years, while its use as a gender-neutral name may be on the rise. Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to choose Arlen as a name for your child, and whether to use it for a boy or a girl, is a personal one, and should take into account your own values and priorities as a parent. Whatever name you choose, may it bring you and your child joy and pride in its meaning and significance.
It is interesting to note that the popularity of names can be influenced by various factors, such as cultural trends, celebrity influence, and even fictional characters. For example, the name Arlen saw a spike in popularity in the 1930s, possibly due to the success of the popular song “Arlen and Harburg’s Over the Rainbow” from the movie The Wizard of Oz. Similarly, the name Arya became more popular in recent years, possibly due to the popularity of the character Arya Stark from the TV show Game of Thrones. It is important to consider these factors when choosing a name for your child, as it may affect how the name is perceived by others and how it may impact your child’s life.