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632

First Name Island in USA

975

Last Name Island in USA

1998

Year Most Island's Born

632

First Name Island in USA

975

Last Name Island in USA

1998

Year Most Island's Born

63.49%

Island's are African American

Origin

The term 'Island' has its roots in Old English 'īegland', which combines 'īeg' (meaning 'island') and 'land'. This term has cognates in various Germanic languages, such as Old Norse 'eyland' and Dutch 'eiland'. Historically, islands have been significant in various cultures, often representing isolation or refuge, and have been referenced in literature and mythology across many societies.

Meaning

'Island' traditionally symbolizes solitude, peace, and a sense of a separate world. It has also been associated with paradise or utopia in various cultures, particularly in literature. Over time, the meaning has expanded to include ideas of security and retreat, reflecting modern notions of escapism from the chaos of the mainland.

Modern Usage and Variations

Today, 'Island' is commonly used in place names and titles, reflecting its popularity. Variants of the term include 'Isle' and 'Atoll', while modern nicknames can include 'Isy' or 'Laney'. The popularity of 'Island' as a name or concept has remained consistent, particularly in tourism, where islands are marketed as idyllic escapes. Interpretations of 'Island' have also evolved to encompass modern themes such as environmental conservation and sustainability.

History and Culture

Islands have featured prominently in mythology and history. For example, Avalon in Arthurian legend is an island associated with magic and healing. Additionally, many famous explorers, such as Christopher Columbus, encountered islands that shaped their journeys and consequently influenced world history. The cultural significance of islands is also evident in the works of writers like Robert Louis Stevenson, who depicted islands as places of adventure and mystery.

Fun facts

There are over 6,000 islands in the Philippines alone.
The largest island in the world is Greenland.
Some islands, like the Galapagos, have played crucial roles in the development of evolutionary theory.
Islands cover about 4% of the Earth's land area.
Island ecosystems are often home to unique species found nowhere else.

Gender

Origin

Meaning

Modern Usage and Variations

History and Culture

Fun Facts

There are over 6,000 islands in the Philippines alone.
The largest island in the world is Greenland.
Some islands, like the Galapagos, have played crucial roles in the development of evolutionary theory.
Islands cover about 4% of the Earth's land area.
Island ecosystems are often home to unique species found nowhere else.

Gender

Name Island popularity in US:

Ethnicity Distribution:

Ethnicity

Percentage

Entire U.S.

White

20.41%

64.26%

African American

63.49%

11.96%

Asian, Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander

4.85%

American Indian and Alaska Native

0.69%

Two or More Ethnicities

6.05%

1.76%

Hispanic or Latino

5.95%

16.26%

Notable Persons

Jón Sigurðsson

Jón Sigurðsson (1811-1879) was an Icelandic politician and the leader of the Icelandic independence movement during the 19th century. He is celebrated for his efforts in promoting Icelandic nationalism and for advocating for greater autonomy from Denmark. Jón's work laid the foundation for Iceland's eventual independence, which was achieved in 1944. He is often referred to as the father of modern Iceland.

Halldór Laxness

Halldór Laxness (1902-1998) was an Icelandic author and the recipient of the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1955. He is known for his novels that explore themes of social justice, identity, and the struggles of rural life in Iceland. His most famous works include 'Independent People' and 'The Atom Station'. Laxness was influential in shaping modern Icelandic literature and culture.

Vigdís Finnbogadóttir

Vigdís Finnbogadóttir, born in 1930, is an Icelandic politician and the first woman in the world to be elected as president, serving from 1980 to 1996. Her presidency marked significant milestones for women's rights and gender equality in Iceland and around the world. Vigdís is also known for her contributions to education, culture, and the promotion of the Icelandic language.