Meaning and Origin of Wade
Wade is a masculine given name of Old English origin. It derives from the word "wadan," meaning to go or to ford a river. Historically, the name was used for someone who lived near a ford or crossing point. The name has been in use in England since the medieval period.
Popularity and Usage
Wade has been a consistently used given name in the United States and the United Kingdom. According to the Social Security Administration, Wade has appeared in the top 1,000 names for boys in the United States for many decades. The name is often associated with a straightforward, strong sound.
Notable People Named Wade
Several well-known individuals carry the name Wade. Wade Boggs is a former Major League Baseball player inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame. Wade Davis is an American anthropologist and author. Wade Hampton III was a Confederate general and later a U.S. Senator from South Carolina.
