Meaning of Norman and Origin
Although the name Norman is mostly English in origin, it also has roots in German, Irish, Swedish, Scottish, Dutch, and Jewish American cultures.
The meaning of Norman was originally northman, or “from the north”. It was a by-name in early Germanic culture referring to the Vikings who settled in the coast of France — an area later to be known as Normandy. In England, Norman (and its variant “Normant”) was used first as a by-name for Scandinavian/Normandy settlers (prominently after the Norman invasion of England in 1066) and then later it became popular as a given name.
Popularity of Norman
Norman was not in the 100 most popular baby boys’ names in England in 2013 (latest stats from the government). Considering the rare quality of the name Norman, it is in a special position to create a strong and unique impression.
Famous People with the First Name Norman
- Norman Reedus: American actor best known for roles in Boondock Saints 1 and 2 and The Walking Dead
- Norman Rockwell: American Painter
- Norman Mailer: American writer
- Norman Bates: popular character in the Alfred Hitchcock novel Psycho
Useful Resources
- Discover the meaning and popularity of other English male’ names on our website