Pidgeon

The name Pidgeon is derived from the Old French word 'pijon', which itself comes from the Vulgar Latin 'pipio', meaning 'young bird' or 'squab'. It originally referred to the young of a dove or pigeon. The word entered the English language around the 13th century. As a surname, it likely originated as a nickname for someone thought to resemble a pigeon, perhaps due to their gentle nature, or as an occupational name for someone who raised or sold pigeons.

As a given name, Pidgeon is exceedingly rare and is more commonly encountered as a surname. Its use as a first name is almost certainly inspired by the bird itself, evoking qualities such as peace, gentleness, or even a sense of freedom. It has seen very limited adoption as a unisex name, often chosen for its unique and somewhat whimsical quality.