Colburn

“Cold stream or river”

English origin · Boy name

♂ 97% boys♀ 3% girls

#825US 2023

1.4kBirths / yr

→Stable

174All-time births

📅 Since 191900

How to pronounce Colburn

KOH·lbern

/ˈkoʊ.lbɝn/ · stress on KOH · 2 syllables

“Cold stream or river”

English origin · Boy name

What does Colburn mean and where does it come from?

Colburn is an English name originally used as a surname, derived from Old English elements 'col' (cold) and 'burna' (stream). The name has historical roots as a placename in England, linking to locations where cold streams are prevalent. Colburn is not a common first name but carries a sense of uniq

Cultural significance

Colburn has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in English-speaking communities, where it reflects values of cold stream or river.

Peak popularity

Reached #3246 in 1948 — currently #825 in the US.

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What middle names flow best with Colburn?

Colburn works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful

Colburn Grace

How popular is Colburn right now?

Holding steady — currently #825 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names

US Trend 1985–2023#825 · Top 0.61%

1985

1990

1995

2000

2010

2015

2021

2022

2023

Year	US Rank	Births	vs Prior Year
2023	#825	1,375	▲ up 5 · +1% births
2022	#830	1,355	▲ up 5 · +2% births
2021	#835	1,325	▲ up 11414 · +26400% births
2015	#12249	5	▲ up 170
2010	#12419	5	▼ down 1880
2000	#10539	5	▼ down 3411 · -29% births
1995	#7128	7	▲ up 226 · +17% births
1990	#7354	6	▼ down 1410
1985	#5944	6	—

Name Popularity Timeline

Popularity Statistics for Colburn

Best Year2023Rank #825

Peak Count1,375

Average Rank#6458

Current Trend↗Rising

Data Range1985 - 20239 years

The story of Colburn

Colburn entered American naming records in 1919 and has been in use for over 105 years. With 174 total births recorded, Colburn remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #5944 in 1985 to #825 in 2023.

Names that peaked alongside Colburn in 1948:

James Robert John William David

Colburn by decade

Colburn peaked in the 1940s. See all 1940s names →

Decade	Births
1910s	5
1930s	6
1940s	23
1970s	12
1980s	24
1990s ★	69
2000s	15
2010s	20

💎Colburn has only 174 total recorded births since 1919 — rarer than 99% of names in our database.

What are good nicknames for Colburn?

Common

ColCoOlburn

What names sound and feel like Colburn?

Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Colburn also consider these

Coburn

English · From the dark

Common questions about the name Colburn

What does the name Colburn mean?

Colburn means "Cold stream or river" — 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 Colburn?

Colburn is currently ranked #825 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 Colburn?

Colburn 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 Colburn?

Colburn is a two-syllable name pronounced K OW1 L B ER0 N. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.

Is Colburn a common or rare name?

Colburn is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.