“Although traditionally a male name, Bob is increasingly used as a feminine name, often as a playful or casual nickname”
American origin · Unisex name
♂ 100% boys♀ 0% girls
#1613US 2023
587Births / yr
→Stable
93.3kAll-time births
📅 Since 191300
How to pronounce Bob
BAHB
/ˈbɑb/ · stress on BAHB · 1 syllable
“Although traditionally a male name, Bob is increasingly used as a feminine name, often as a playful or casual nickname”
American origin · Unisex name
What does Bob mean and where does it come from?
Although traditionally a male name, Bob is increasingly used as a feminine name, often as a playful or casual nickname. Bob has been popularized in contemporary culture with notable figures like Bob Dylan and Bob Ross, contributing to its unisex appeal.
Cultural significance
Bob has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in American-speaking communities, where it reflects values of english.
Peak popularity
Reached #2049 in 1932 — currently #1613 in the US.
Holding steady — currently #1613 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
US Trend 1925–2023#1613 · Top 1.2%
1925
1930
1935
1940
1945
1955
1970
2021
2022
2023
Year
US Rank
Births
vs Prior Year
2023
#1613
587
▲ up 5 · +4% births
2022
#1618
567
▲ up 5 · +6% births
2021
#1623
537
▲ up 6404 · +10640% births
1970
#8027
5
▼ down 2793 · -17% births
1955
#5234
6
▼ down 646 · +20% births
1945
#4588
5
▼ down 212
1940
#4376
5
▼ down 1623 · -50% births
1935
#2753
10
▼ down 305 · -23% births
1930
#2448
13
▲ up 1990 · +117% births
1925
#4438
6
—
Name Popularity Timeline
Popularity Statistics for Bob
2023Rank #1613
587
#3672
↗Rising
1925 - 202310 years
The story of Bob
Bob entered American naming records in 1913 and has been in use for over 111 years. A total of 93,277 babies have received this name. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #4438 in 1925 to #1613 in 2023. Bob is used for both genders: 0% female and 100% male.
Bob means "English" — 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 Bob?
Bob is currently a distinctive and less common name as a baby name in the US and is holding steady in popularity, a reliable classic that parents consistently choose.
What is the cultural origin of Bob?
Bob 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 Bob?
Bob is a one-syllable name pronounced B AA1 B. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
How does Bob sound with different last names?
As a one-syllable name, Bob flows best with last names of two or three syllables. Avoid last names ending in the same sound as Bob ends, as this can create an unwanted rhyme. Test by saying the full name out loud several times.
Sibling names that pair with Bob
For a sister
Bob & Harrison♡
Bob & Dean♡
Bob & Grant♡
Bob & King♡
For a brother
Bob & Harrison♡
Bob & Dean♡
Bob & Grant♡
Bob & King♡
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