What does Amber mean and where does it come from?
Amber is derived from the English word for the fossilized tree resin known for its warm honey-like color, and has been used as a first name since the 20th century. It also holds significance in Arabic culture referring to something precious or dear. Amber has become popular in Western countries, par
Cultural significance
Amber has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in American-speaking communities, where it reflects values of the color of honey.
Peak popularity
Reached #13 in 1986 — currently #520 in the US.
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Related Reading
American-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →How else can you spell Amber?
Same sound, different look — useful if you want something slightly more distinctive
What middle names flow best with Amber?
Amber works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Amber Grace
One syllable · timeless choice
Amber Leah
One syllable · timeless choice
Amber Claire
One syllable · timeless choice
Amber Zoey
One syllable · vintage charm
Amber Maeve
One syllable · timeless choice
Amber Jade
One syllable · vintage charm
How popular is Amber right now?
Rising — up 20 spots — currently #520 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2025 | #520 | 576 | ▲ up 20 · +2% births |
| 2024 | #540 | 562 | ▲ up 34 · +8% births |
| 2023 | #574 | 519 | ▼ down 34 · -9% births |
| 2022 | #540 | 569 | ▼ down 6 · -2% births |
| 2021 | #534 | 579 | ▼ down 21 · -1% births |
| 2020 | #513 | 584 | ▼ down 179 · -40% births |
| 2015 | #334 | 976 | ▼ down 111 · -31% births |
| 2010 | #223 | 1,415 | ▼ down 122 · -55% births |
| 2005 | #101 | 3,141 | ▼ down 54 · -49% births |
| 2000 | #47 | 6,181 | ▼ down 25 · -44% births |
| 1995 | #22 | 10,962 | ▼ down 7 · -31% births |
| 1990 | #15 | 15,863 | ▲ up 1 · +2% births |
| 1985 | #16 | 15,504 | ▲ up 6 · +23% births |
| 1980 | #22 | 12,555 | ▲ up 37 · +168% births |
| 1975 | #59 | 4,682 | — |
The story of Amber
Amber has been a beloved American name for over 144 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1880. Its peak popularity was #13 in 1986. More than 372,795 babies have been named Amber since 1880. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #583 in 1880 to #574 in 2023. Amber is used for both genders: 100% female and 0% male.
Names that peaked alongside Amber in 1986:
Amber by decade
Amber peaked in the 1980s. See all 1980s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1880s | 46 | |
| 1890s | 131 | |
| 1900s | 170 | |
| 1910s | 327 | |
| 1920s | 304 | |
| 1930s | 192 | |
| 1940s | 537 | |
| 1950s | 1,256 | |
| 1960s | 5,471 | |
| 1970s | 47,229 | |
| 1980s ★ | 154,472 | |
| 1990s | 115,815 | |
| 2000s | 36,270 | |
| 2010s | 9,991 | |
| 2020s | 1,722 | |
What are good nicknames for Amber?
What names sound and feel like Amber?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Amber also consider these
How is Amber written in other languages?
Common questions about the name Amber
What does the name Amber mean?
Amber means "the color of honey" — a name rooted in American tradition that carries both historical depth and timeless appeal. The meaning reflects values that have made this name endure across generations.
How popular is the name Amber?
Amber is currently ranked #574 as a baby name in the US and is becoming rarer and more distinctive, making it a unique choice that stands out.
What is the cultural origin of Amber?
Amber originates from American tradition. American names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
How do you pronounce the name Amber?
Amber is a two-syllable name pronounced AMB-er. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Amber more of a girl or boy name?
Amber is a genuinely unisex name used for both boys and girls. The unisex quality makes it particularly versatile for modern families.