What does Austen mean and where does it come from?
The name Austen is a variant of the name Augustine, deriving from Latin 'Augustinus.' Historically, the name has been used in various literary contexts, most notably associated with the author Jane Austen. Although traditionally a male name, Austen has gained popularity for females, particularly in
Cultural significance
Austen has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in United Kingdom-speaking communities, where it reflects values of english.
Peak popularity
Reached #1958 in 2024 — currently #2518 in the US.
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Related Reading
United Kingdom-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →How else can you spell Austen?
Same sound, different look — useful if you want something slightly more distinctive
What middle names flow best with Austen?
Austen works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Austen Jack
One syllable · timeless choice
Austen John
One syllable · timeless choice
Austen Luke
One syllable · timeless choice
Austen Miles
One syllable · vintage charm
Austen Beau
One syllable · on the rise
Austen Brooks
One syllable · timeless choice
How popular is Austen right now?
Falling — down 560 spots — currently #2518 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2025 | #2518 | 53 | ▼ down 560 · -34% births |
| 2024 | #1958 | 80 | ▲ up 358 · +33% births |
| 2023 | #2316 | 60 | ▼ down 180 · -13% births |
| 2022 | #2136 | 69 | ▼ down 192 · -10% births |
| 2021 | #1944 | 77 | ▲ up 1214 · +57% births |
| 2020 | #3158 | 49 | ▼ down 307 · -20% births |
| 2015 | #2851 | 61 | ▲ up 2274 · +126% births |
| 2010 | #5125 | 27 | ▲ up 4396 · +145% births |
| 2005 | #9521 | 11 | ▼ down 266 · +10% births |
| 2000 | #9255 | 10 | ▼ down 5357 · -63% births |
| 1995 | #3898 | 27 | ▲ up 1442 · +59% births |
| 1990 | #5340 | 17 | ▼ down 437 · +13% births |
| 1985 | #4903 | 15 | ▲ up 4379 · +150% births |
| 1980 | #9282 | 6 | — |
The story of Austen
Austen is a relatively modern name, first appearing in US records in 1980. With 8,789 total births recorded, Austen remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #9282 in 1980 to #2316 in 2023. Austen is used for both genders: 12% female and 88% male.
Names that peaked alongside Austen in 2024:
Austen by decade
Austen peaked in the 2020s. See all 2020s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1910s | 5 | |
| 1920s | 18 | |
| 1950s | 5 | |
| 1960s | 5 | |
| 1970s | 68 | |
| 1980s | 950 | |
| 1990s ★ | 3,930 | |
| 2000s | 2,009 | |
| 2010s | 1,678 | |
| 2020s | 353 | |
💎With 8,789 total births, Austen is an uncommon but established name.
What are good nicknames for Austen?
What names sound and feel like Austen?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Austen also consider these
How is Austen written in other languages?
What are the girl versions of Austen?
Common questions about the name Austen
What does the name Austen mean?
Austen means "English" — a name rooted in United Kingdom 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 Austen?
Austen is currently a distinctive and less common name 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 Austen?
Austen originates from United Kingdom tradition. United Kingdom names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
Is Austen a common or rare name?
Austen is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.
Is Austen more of a girl or boy name?
Austen is a genuinely unisex name used for both boys and girls. The unisex quality makes it particularly versatile for modern families.