What does Cadence mean and where does it come from?
Cadence is derived from the Latin word 'cadens', meaning 'falling' or 'rhythm'. It has become a popular name in the United States, especially in the 1990s and 2000s, as music and rhythm became significant influences in naming trends. The name conveys a sense of musicality and grace, appealing to man
Cultural significance
Cadence has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in American-speaking communities, where it reflects values of rhythm or flow of sounds.
Peak popularity
Reached #199 in 2007 — currently #951 in the US.
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Related Reading
American-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →How else can you spell Cadence?
Same sound, different look — useful if you want something slightly more distinctive
What middle names flow best with Cadence?
Cadence works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Cadence Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Cadence Rose
Floral · soft ending
Cadence Mae
Sweet · timeless
Cadence Claire
French influence · crisp
Cadence Jane
Literary · strong
Cadence Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Cadence right now?
Falling — down 95 spots — currently #951 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #951 | 275 | ▼ down 95 · -15% births |
| 2022 | #856 | 325 | ▼ down 100 · -14% births |
| 2021 | #756 | 377 | ▼ down 79 · -9% births |
| 2020 | #677 | 415 | ▼ down 337 · -57% births |
| 2015 | #340 | 965 | ▼ down 113 · -30% births |
| 2010 | #227 | 1,381 | ▼ down 20 · -17% births |
| 2005 | #207 | 1,668 | ▲ up 2259 · +2590% births |
| 2000 | #2466 | 62 | ▲ up 1168 · +107% births |
| 1995 | #3634 | 30 | ▲ up 1360 · +58% births |
| 1990 | #4994 | 19 | ▲ up 1343 · +73% births |
| 1985 | #6337 | 11 | ▼ down 97 |
| 1980 | #6240 | 11 | ▲ up 2592 · +83% births |
| 1975 | #8832 | 6 | — |
The story of Cadence
Cadence is a relatively modern name, first appearing in US records in 1974. A total of 22,605 babies have received this name. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #8832 in 1975 to #951 in 2023. Cadence is used for both genders: 93% female and 7% male.
Names that peaked alongside Cadence in 2007:
Cadence by decade
Cadence peaked in the 2000s. See all 2000s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1970s | 41 | |
| 1980s | 111 | |
| 1990s | 429 | |
| 2000s ★ | 11,256 | |
| 2010s | 10,248 | |
| 2020s | 520 | |
What are good nicknames for Cadence?
What names sound and feel like Cadence?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Cadence also consider these
How is Cadence written in other languages?
Common questions about the name Cadence
What does the name Cadence mean?
Cadence means "Rhythm or flow of sounds" — 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 Cadence?
Cadence is currently ranked #951 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 Cadence?
Cadence 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 Cadence?
Cadence is a three-syllable name pronounced K AA1 D EH1 N S IY2 IY1. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
What sibling names go well with Cadence?
Cadence pairs beautifully with sibling names that share a similar American heritage or complement its melodic and flowing sound. Names with a similar vibe create a cohesive sibling set without matching too closely.