What does Cody mean and where does it come from?
Originally a surname of Irish and Gaelic origin, Cody became a popular given name in the 20th century. It is predominantly used for males but has also been embraced as a female name, particularly in the United States. The name has appeared in popular culture, notably through various celebrities and
Cultural significance
Cody has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in English-speaking communities, where it reflects values of english.
Peak popularity
Reached #742 in 1988 — currently #304 in the US.
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Related Reading
English-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →How else can you spell Cody?
Same sound, different look — useful if you want something slightly more distinctive
What middle names flow best with Cody?
Cody works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Cody Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Cody Rose
Floral · soft ending
Cody Claire
French influence · crisp
Cody Jane
Literary · strong
Cody Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Cody right now?
Holding steady — currently #304 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #304 | 1,086 | ▼ down 2 · -2% births |
| 2022 | #302 | 1,113 | ▲ up 10 · +4% births |
| 2021 | #312 | 1,075 | ▲ up 4549 · +4035% births |
| 2020 | #4861 | 26 | ▲ up 595 · +8% births |
| 2015 | #5456 | 24 | ▲ up 323 · +4% births |
| 2010 | #5779 | 23 | ▼ down 809 · -12% births |
| 2005 | #4970 | 26 | ▼ down 2260 · -52% births |
| 2000 | #2710 | 54 | ▼ down 1494 · -62% births |
| 1995 | #1216 | 141 | ▼ down 356 · -38% births |
| 1990 | #860 | 229 | ▼ down 113 · -1% births |
| 1985 | #747 | 232 | ▲ up 471 · +115% births |
| 1980 | #1218 | 108 | ▲ up 516 · +100% births |
| 1975 | #1734 | 54 | ▲ up 538 · +59% births |
| 1970 | #2272 | 34 | ▲ up 1490 · +183% births |
| 1965 | #3762 | 12 | — |
The story of Cody
Cody entered American naming records in 1926 and has been in use for over 98 years. More than 291,390 babies have been named Cody since 1926. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #3717 in 1945 to #304 in 2023. Cody is used for both genders: 2% female and 98% male.
Names that peaked alongside Cody in 1988:
Cody by decade
Cody peaked in the 1980s. See all 1980s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1880s | 18 | |
| 1890s | 11 | |
| 1900s | 11 | |
| 1910s | 156 | |
| 1920s | 198 | |
| 1930s | 204 | |
| 1940s | 312 | |
| 1950s | 807 | |
| 1960s | 1,860 | |
| 1970s | 10,215 | |
| 1980s | 62,200 | |
| 1990s ★ | 147,915 | |
| 2000s | 49,266 | |
| 2010s | 17,069 | |
| 2020s | 1,148 | |
What are good nicknames for Cody?
What names sound and feel like Cody?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Cody also consider these
How is Cody written in other languages?
Common questions about the name Cody
What does the name Cody mean?
Cody means "English" — 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 Cody?
Cody is currently ranked #304 in the United States 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 Cody?
Cody 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 Cody?
Cody is a two-syllable name pronounced K OW1 D IY0. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Cody more of a girl or boy name?
Cody is a genuinely unisex name used for both boys and girls. The unisex quality makes it particularly versatile for modern families.