What does Cedar mean and where does it come from?
Cedar is a nature-inspired name derived from the tree known for its strength and longevity. It has gained popularity in recent years, especially in the United States and Canada, as a choice for parents seeking unique and nature-related names. The cedar tree is often associated with durability and re
Cultural significance
Cedar has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in American-speaking communities, where it reflects values of english.
Peak popularity
Reached #2360 in 2020 — currently #2827 in the US.
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Related Reading
American-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →How else can you spell Cedar?
Same sound, different look — useful if you want something slightly more distinctive
What middle names flow best with Cedar?
Cedar works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Cedar Jack
One syllable · timeless choice
Cedar John
One syllable · timeless choice
Cedar Luke
One syllable · timeless choice
Cedar Grace
One syllable · timeless choice
Cedar Miles
One syllable · vintage charm
Cedar Leah
One syllable · timeless choice
How popular is Cedar right now?
Falling — down 434 spots — currently #2827 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2025 | #2827 | 60 | ▼ down 434 · -21% births |
| 2024 | #2393 | 76 | ▼ down 1141 · -51% births |
| 2023 | #1252 | 154 | ▼ down 128 · -18% births |
| 2022 | #1124 | 188 | ▲ up 121 · +23% births |
| 2021 | #1245 | 153 | ▲ up 1115 · +107% births |
| 2020 | #2360 | 74 | ▲ up 541 · +23% births |
| 2015 | #2901 | 60 | ▲ up 1877 · +100% births |
| 2010 | #4778 | 30 | ▲ up 1576 · +58% births |
| 2005 | #6354 | 19 | ▼ down 1638 · -24% births |
| 2000 | #4716 | 25 | ▲ up 407 · +32% births |
| 1995 | #5123 | 19 | ▲ up 5593 · +171% births |
| 1990 | #10716 | 7 | ▼ down 3936 · -30% births |
| 1985 | #6780 | 10 | ▼ down 1590 · -29% births |
| 1980 | #5190 | 14 | ▲ up 1233 · +56% births |
| 1975 | #6423 | 9 | — |
The story of Cedar
Cedar is a relatively modern name, first appearing in US records in 1974. With 2,874 total births recorded, Cedar remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #6423 in 1975 to #1252 in 2023. Cedar is used for both genders: 38% female and 62% male.
Names that peaked alongside Cedar in 2020:
Cedar by decade
Cedar peaked in the 2020s. See all 2020s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1970s | 143 | |
| 1980s | 185 | |
| 1990s | 279 | |
| 2000s | 597 | |
| 2010s ★ | 1,442 | |
| 2020s | 697 | |
💎With 2,874 total births, Cedar is an uncommon but established name.
What are good nicknames for Cedar?
What names sound and feel like Cedar?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Cedar also consider these
Common questions about the name Cedar
What does the name Cedar mean?
Cedar 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 Cedar?
Cedar 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 Cedar?
Cedar 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 Cedar?
Cedar is a two-syllable name pronounced SEE-der. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Cedar a common or rare name?
Cedar is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.