What does December mean and where does it come from?
December is a modern and somewhat unique name that is commonly found in the United States. It is derived from the Latin word 'decem', meaning 'ten', as it was originally the tenth month in the Roman calendar. As a given name, it conveys associations with winter and the holiday season. It has been us
Cultural significance
December has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in American-speaking communities, where it reflects values of a beloved name with deep roots.
Peak popularity
Reached #2771 in 1979 — currently #4383 in the US.
Rising — up 14 spots — currently #4383 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
US Trend 1960–2023#4383 · Top 3.2%
1965
1970
1975
1980
1985
1990
1995
2000
2005
2010
2015
2020
2021
2022
2023
Year
US Rank
Births
vs Prior Year
2023
#4383
32
▲ up 14
2022
#4397
32
▼ down 447 · -14% births
2021
#3950
37
▲ up 50 · +6% births
2020
#4000
35
▼ down 215 · -12% births
2015
#3785
40
▲ up 849 · +29% births
2010
#4634
31
▼ down 224
2005
#4410
31
▲ up 28 · +15% births
2000
#4438
27
▼ down 1478 · -32% births
1995
#2960
40
▲ up 1816 · +100% births
1990
#4776
20
▼ down 226 · +18% births
1985
#4550
17
▼ down 1278 · -35% births
1980
#3272
26
▲ up 312 · +37% births
1975
#3584
19
▲ up 5094 · +280% births
1970
#8678
5
▼ down 3455 · -37% births
1965
#5223
8
—
Name Popularity Timeline
Popularity Statistics for December
1995Rank #2960
40
#4639
↗Rising
1960 - 202316 years
The story of December
December entered American naming records in 1960 and has been in use for over 64 years. With 1,465 total births recorded, December remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #7188 in 1960 to #4383 in 2023. December is used for both genders: 100% female and 0% male.
December means "A beloved name with deep roots" — a name rooted in American 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 December?
December is currently a distinctive and less common name as a baby name in the US and is rapidly gaining popularity — searches for December have increased significantly in recent years.
What is the cultural origin of December?
December originates from American tradition. American 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 December?
December is a three-syllable name pronounced D IH0 S EH1 M B ER0. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
What sibling names go well with December?
December pairs beautifully with sibling names that share a similar American heritage or complement its melodic and flowing sound. Names with a similar vibe create a cohesive sibling set without matching too closely.
Sibling names that pair with December
For a sister
December & Weston♡
December & Micah♡
December & Austin♡
December & Carson♡
For a brother
December & Matthew♡
December & Wesley♡
December & Weston♡
December & Micah♡
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Worldwide ranking · 2023
Country
Rank
🇺🇸 USA
#4383
🇬🇧 UK
—
🇨🇦 Canada
—
🇦🇺 Australia
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