What does Cruz mean and where does it come from?
The name Cruz is of Spanish origin and translates to 'cross' in English, symbolizing the Christian cross. It has gained popularity in various Spanish-speaking countries and among the Latino community in the United States. Cruz is often used as both a first name and a surname. The first recorded use
Cultural significance
Cruz has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Spain-speaking communities, where it reflects values of cross.
Peak popularity
Reached #794 in 1923 — currently #329 in the US.
🌿
Related Reading
Spain-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →How else can you spell Cruz?
Same sound, different look — useful if you want something slightly more distinctive
What middle names flow best with Cruz?
Cruz works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Cruz Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Cruz Rose
Floral · soft ending
Cruz Claire
French influence · crisp
Cruz Jane
Literary · strong
Cruz Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Cruz right now?
Declining — down 14 spots — currently #329 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #329 | 1,013 | ▼ down 14 · -5% births |
| 2022 | #315 | 1,065 | ▼ down 18 · -5% births |
| 2021 | #297 | 1,117 | ▲ up 4836 · +4554% births |
| 2020 | #5133 | 24 | ▼ down 152 · -11% births |
| 2015 | #4981 | 27 | ▲ up 1000 · +23% births |
| 2010 | #5981 | 22 | ▲ up 268 · +16% births |
| 2005 | #6249 | 19 | ▼ down 541 |
| 2000 | #5708 | 19 | ▼ down 2283 · -41% births |
| 1995 | #3425 | 32 | ▲ up 1109 · +52% births |
| 1990 | #4534 | 21 | ▼ down 1447 · -28% births |
| 1985 | #3087 | 29 | ▼ down 218 · -6% births |
| 1980 | #2869 | 31 | ▼ down 408 · -3% births |
| 1975 | #2461 | 32 | ▼ down 60 · +3% births |
| 1970 | #2401 | 31 | ▼ down 150 · +11% births |
| 1965 | #2251 | 28 | — |
The story of Cruz
Cruz has been a beloved American name for over 134 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1890. A total of 29,524 babies have received this name. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #1039 in 1890 to #329 in 2023. Cruz is used for both genders: 14% female and 86% male.
Names that peaked alongside Cruz in 1923:
Cruz by decade
Cruz peaked in the 1920s. See all 1920s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1880s | 6 | |
| 1890s | 31 | |
| 1900s | 124 | |
| 1910s | 602 | |
| 1920s | 1,368 | |
| 1930s | 1,180 | |
| 1940s | 1,196 | |
| 1950s | 1,284 | |
| 1960s | 1,071 | |
| 1970s | 1,053 | |
| 1980s | 1,556 | |
| 1990s | 2,387 | |
| 2000s | 5,339 | |
| 2010s ★ | 11,213 | |
| 2020s | 1,114 | |
What are good nicknames for Cruz?
What names sound and feel like Cruz?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Cruz also consider these
How is Cruz written in other languages?
Common questions about the name Cruz
What does the name Cruz mean?
Cruz means "cross" — a name rooted in Spain 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 Cruz?
Cruz is currently ranked #329 in the United States 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 Cruz?
Cruz originates from Spain tradition. Spain 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 Cruz?
Cruz is a one-syllable name pronounced K R UW1 Z. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
How does Cruz sound with different last names?
As a one-syllable name, Cruz flows best with last names of two or three syllables. Avoid last names ending in the same sound as Cruz ends, as this can create an unwanted rhyme. Test by saying the full name out loud several times.