What does Bufford mean and where does it come from?
Bufford is derived from an Old English habitational name. It may relate to individuals who lived near a 'buffer' (a river or stream) or was a surname that later became a first name. The name is quite rare and is predominantly found in historical contexts, with fewer modern-day users. It can also hav
Cultural significance
Bufford has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in English-speaking communities, where it reflects values of dweller by the buffer,.
Peak popularity
Reached #1788 in 1936 — currently #830 in the US.
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Related Reading
English-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Bufford?
Bufford works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Bufford Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Bufford Rose
Floral · soft ending
Bufford Mae
Sweet · timeless
Bufford Claire
French influence · crisp
Bufford Jane
Literary · strong
Bufford Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Bufford right now?
Holding steady — currently #830 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #830 | 1,370 | ▲ up 5 · +1% births |
| 2022 | #835 | 1,350 | ▲ up 5 · +2% births |
| 2021 | #840 | 1,320 | ▲ up 1679 · +13100% births |
| 1950 | #2519 | 10 | ▼ down 429 · -17% births |
| 1945 | #2090 | 12 | ▲ up 182 · +9% births |
| 1940 | #2272 | 11 | ▼ down 274 · -21% births |
| 1935 | #1998 | 14 | ▲ up 264 · +8% births |
| 1930 | #2262 | 13 | ▼ down 261 · -24% births |
| 1925 | #2001 | 17 | ▲ up 696 · +55% births |
| 1920 | #2697 | 11 | ▲ up 41 · +22% births |
| 1915 | #2738 | 9 | — |
The story of Bufford
Bufford entered American naming records in 1912 and has been in use for over 112 years. With 507 total births recorded, Bufford remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #2738 in 1915 to #830 in 2023.
Names that peaked alongside Bufford in 1936:
Bufford by decade
Bufford peaked in the 1930s. See all 1930s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1910s | 62 | |
| 1920s ★ | 131 | |
| 1930s | 130 | |
| 1940s | 112 | |
| 1950s | 45 | |
| 1960s | 27 | |
💎Bufford has only 507 total recorded births since 1912 — rarer than 99% of names in our database.
What are good nicknames for Bufford?
What names sound and feel like Bufford?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Bufford also consider these
Common questions about the name Bufford
What does the name Bufford mean?
Bufford means "dweller by the buffer," — a name rooted in English 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 Bufford?
Bufford is currently ranked #830 as a boy name in the US and is holding steady in popularity, a reliable classic that parents consistently choose.
What is the cultural origin of Bufford?
Bufford originates from English tradition. English 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 Bufford?
Bufford is a two-syllable name pronounced B AH1 F ER0 D. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Bufford a common or rare name?
Bufford is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.