What does Cree mean and where does it come from?
Cree is derived from the name of a large group of Native American tribes, primarily situated in Canada and parts of the United States. The Cree people are known for their rich culture, language, and history. The name is associated with strength and community, reflecting the importance of tribal iden
Cultural significance
Cree has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Canada-speaking communities, where it reflects values of cree.
Peak popularity
Reached #1676 in 1991 — currently #1836 in the US.
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Related Reading
Canada-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Cree?
Cree works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Cree Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Cree Rose
Floral · soft ending
Cree Claire
French influence · crisp
Cree Jane
Literary · strong
Cree Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Cree right now?
Falling — down 330 spots — currently #1836 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #1836 | 87 | ▼ down 330 · -28% births |
| 2022 | #1506 | 120 | ▼ down 3 · +2% births |
| 2021 | #1503 | 118 | ▲ up 1849 · +157% births |
| 2020 | #3352 | 46 | ▲ up 109 |
| 2015 | #3461 | 46 | ▲ up 9296 · +475% births |
| 2010 | #12757 | 8 | ▼ down 3578 · -33% births |
| 2005 | #9179 | 12 | ▼ down 4240 · -50% births |
| 2000 | #4939 | 24 | ▼ down 1279 · -20% births |
| 1995 | #3660 | 30 | ▼ down 1344 · -45% births |
| 1990 | #2316 | 55 | — |
The story of Cree
Cree is a relatively modern name, first appearing in US records in 1989. With 1,626 total births recorded, Cree remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #2316 in 1990 to #1836 in 2023. Cree is used for both genders: 58% female and 42% male.
Names that peaked alongside Cree in 1991:
Cree by decade
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1980s | 38 | |
| 1990s | 430 | |
| 2000s | 216 | |
| 2010s ★ | 815 | |
| 2020s | 127 | |
💎With 1,626 total births, Cree is an uncommon but established name.
What are good nicknames for Cree?
What names sound and feel like Cree?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Cree also consider these
Common questions about the name Cree
What does the name Cree mean?
Cree means "Cree" — a name rooted in Canada 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 Cree?
Cree is currently a distinctive and less common name as a baby name in the US and is rapidly gaining popularity — searches for Cree have increased significantly in recent years.
What is the cultural origin of Cree?
Cree originates from Canada tradition. Canada 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 Cree?
Cree is a one-syllable name pronounced K R IY1. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
How does Cree sound with different last names?
As a one-syllable name, Cree flows best with last names of two or three syllables. Avoid last names ending in the same sound as Cree ends, as this can create an unwanted rhyme. Test by saying the full name out loud several times.