What does Coby mean and where does it come from?
Coby is a modern diminutive of the name Jacob or Jacobus, used in English-speaking countries and in the Netherlands. The name is typically considered unisex but has gained popularity as a feminine name. The Hebrew context, in which Coby (קובי) means 'protected by God,' adds a layer of cultural signi
Cultural significance
Coby has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in English-speaking communities, where it reflects values of supplanter.
Peak popularity
Reached #3148 in 1974 — currently #1497 in the US.
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Related Reading
English-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →How else can you spell Coby?
Same sound, different look — useful if you want something slightly more distinctive
What middle names flow best with Coby?
Coby works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Coby Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Coby Rose
Floral · soft ending
Coby Claire
French influence · crisp
Coby Jane
Literary · strong
Coby Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Coby right now?
Rising fast — up 51 spots — currently #1497 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #1497 | 119 | ▲ up 51 · +3% births |
| 2022 | #1548 | 115 | ▼ down 169 · -14% births |
| 2021 | #1379 | 133 | ▲ up 13868 · +2560% births |
| 2020 | #15247 | 5 | ▼ down 507 · -17% births |
| 2005 | #14740 | 6 | ▼ down 5446 · -40% births |
| 2000 | #9294 | 10 | ▼ down 3842 · -23% births |
| 1985 | #5452 | 13 | ▲ up 1510 · +44% births |
| 1980 | #6962 | 9 | ▼ down 2270 · -31% births |
| 1975 | #4692 | 13 | ▲ up 885 · +44% births |
| 1970 | #5577 | 9 | ▲ up 567 · +50% births |
| 1965 | #6144 | 6 | ▼ down 1492 · -33% births |
| 1960 | #4652 | 9 | — |
The story of Coby
Coby entered American naming records in 1946 and has been in use for over 78 years. With 9,290 total births recorded, Coby remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #4652 in 1960 to #1497 in 2023. Coby is used for both genders: 4% female and 96% male.
Names that peaked alongside Coby in 1974:
Coby by decade
Coby peaked in the 1970s. See all 1970s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1940s | 42 | |
| 1950s | 123 | |
| 1960s | 300 | |
| 1970s | 1,059 | |
| 1980s | 960 | |
| 1990s | 1,961 | |
| 2000s ★ | 3,289 | |
| 2010s | 1,416 | |
| 2020s | 140 | |
💎With 9,290 total births, Coby is an uncommon but established name.
What are good nicknames for Coby?
What names sound and feel like Coby?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Coby also consider these
How is Coby written in other languages?
Common questions about the name Coby
What does the name Coby mean?
Coby means "supplanter" — 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 Coby?
Coby 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 Coby?
Coby 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 Coby?
Coby is a two-syllable name pronounced K OW1 B IY0. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Coby a common or rare name?
Coby is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.