What does Auburn mean and where does it come from?
Auburn is primarily known as a color name, referring to a reddish-brown hair color. The name has roots in the English language and has gained popularity in the United States over the last few decades. It is often associated with the beauty of autumn leaves. Notable figures with the name include the
Cultural significance
Auburn has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in American-speaking communities, where it reflects values of a reddish-brown color..
Peak popularity
Reached #2850 in 1996 — currently #4470 in the US.
🌿
Related Reading
American-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Auburn?
Auburn works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Auburn Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Auburn Rose
Floral · soft ending
Auburn Mae
Sweet · timeless
Auburn Claire
French influence · crisp
Auburn Jane
Literary · strong
Auburn Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Auburn right now?
Rising — up 18 spots — currently #4470 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #4470 | 31 | ▲ up 18 |
| 2022 | #4488 | 31 | ▲ up 362 · +15% births |
| 2021 | #4850 | 27 | ▼ down 1418 · -39% births |
| 2020 | #3432 | 44 | ▼ down 261 · -15% births |
| 2015 | #3171 | 52 | ▲ up 2437 · +117% births |
| 2010 | #5608 | 24 | ▲ up 204 · +14% births |
| 2005 | #5812 | 21 | ▼ down 1510 · -25% births |
| 2000 | #4302 | 28 | ▼ down 874 · -12% births |
| 1995 | #3428 | 32 | ▲ up 296 · +14% births |
| 1990 | #3724 | 28 | ▲ up 1985 · +133% births |
| 1985 | #5709 | 12 | ▲ up 2522 · +71% births |
| 1980 | #8231 | 7 | ▼ down 3154 · +40% births |
| 1920 | #5077 | 5 | — |
The story of Auburn
Auburn entered American naming records in 1920 and has been in use for over 104 years. With 1,890 total births recorded, Auburn remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #5077 in 1920 to #4470 in 2023. Auburn is used for both genders: 63% female and 37% male.
Names that peaked alongside Auburn in 1996:
Auburn by decade
Auburn peaked in the 1990s. See all 1990s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1890s | 5 | |
| 1900s | 6 | |
| 1910s | 104 | |
| 1920s | 175 | |
| 1930s | 117 | |
| 1940s | 82 | |
| 1950s | 44 | |
| 1960s | 54 | |
| 1970s | 43 | |
| 1980s | 159 | |
| 1990s | 337 | |
| 2000s | 309 | |
| 2010s ★ | 411 | |
| 2020s | 44 | |
💎With 1,890 total births, Auburn is an uncommon but established name.
What are good nicknames for Auburn?
What names sound and feel like Auburn?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Auburn also consider these
Common questions about the name Auburn
What does the name Auburn mean?
Auburn means "A reddish-brown color." — 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 Auburn?
Auburn is currently a distinctive and less common name as a baby name in the US and is rapidly gaining popularity — searches for Auburn have increased significantly in recent years.
What is the cultural origin of Auburn?
Auburn 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 Auburn?
Auburn is a two-syllable name pronounced AA1 B ER0 N. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Auburn trending right now?
Auburn is currently on the rise — it has gained significant momentum in recent years as parents discover its appeal.