Today, by reader suggestion, we’re diving into one of the most beloved names of the late 70s: Jason. Although many would dismiss this Grecian appellation as dated and no longer in use, the stats would heavily disagree. Teetering more towards classic and traditional than dated and forgotten, the numbers surrounding Jason are sure to surprise you.
Why are parents continuing to use Jason so long after his prime? What makes Jason so different from fading 70s names like Bruce and Kevin?
Although Jason did peak in popularity in the late 70s, he is still used more frequently than you would assume. Significantly more popular than names like Max, Zachary, and even Ayden, Jason still holds the #100 spot, even decades after his popularity peaked. This is an astounding feat or a name to accomplish, especially now that we mostly associate the name Jason with men in their 40s. So, why do people continue to use Jason, despite the primary association of the name no longer being a child?
Regardless of the name no longer being fresh and new, Jason’s sounds are always in demand. Jason served as a catapult for many names that sound similar to him, including Mason, Jackson, Justin, and Jaycey. Names similar in sound to Jason are alway in vogue, causing me to believe that the very names Jason launched to popularity are what’s been keeping him afloat all of these years.
In addition to his pleasing sound, Jason has positive biblical ties as well as origins in Greek myth. His meaning “to heal,” is a positive as well. Because of his roots in the bible, he appeals to many people seeking a religious name for their son. Jason’s former intense popularity also allows parents today to choose this name without spelling issues or widespread popularity.
Finally, as it often is with any name that has once been popular, Jason has loads of positive associations including singers Jason Mraz and Jason Derulo, Aquaman actor Jason Momoa, and Jason Grace, a character in Rick Riordan’s book series. With positive associations and people surrounding the name Jason, more parents are happy to choose it.
Sounds great! But why hasn’t Jason stayed in the top 50?
Even with all of the positive connotation and associations surrounding Jason, doing a quick Google search of the name Jason will result in several pictures of the main character and antagonist of Friday the Thirteenth, Jason Voorhees, a stalker and murderer of many other supporting characters in the series. Because Friday the Thirteenth is a series, parents saw the name Jason in a negative light repeatedly over a span of several different years of movies, imprinting the association further in their minds.
Another factor in Jason’s inability to climb higher on the charts is his popularity in the 70s. Parents today are often looking for new, unique, and modern names for their children, and Jason just misses the mark. But he isn’t quite in the same league as dying 70s names Alan, Derrick, and Rodney, whose sounds are no longer in style.
Predictions for Jason:
Jason has been on a downward spiral since his peak, and I don’t see any naming trend that will keep him climbing. Unfortunately, Jason appears too dated for some families today to consider, despite the biblical ties and appealing sound. I can’t see Jason ranking in the top 100 again in the upcoming 2019 data, but just because other people don’t choose this name doesn’t mean you can’t. In fact, minimal popularity is a plus for many families, so if anything, take advantage of Jason’s declining use!
Sincerely,
~Delphina Moon
This name profile was suggested by a reader. If you would like to get your own favorite names profiled, submit my form underneath the “Contact” form!
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