Ebony is derived from the dense black hardwood, which comes from certain trees, like Diospyros. The name has been popular in the African American community since the late 20th century and has connotations of beauty, elegance, and strength. Notable figures such as African American authors and musicia
Cultural significance
Ebony has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in American-speaking communities, where it reflects values of dark, black wood.
Holding steady — currently #1886 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
US Trend 1950–2023#1886 · Top 1.4%
1950
1970
1975
1980
1985
1990
1995
2000
2005
2010
2015
2020
2021
2022
2023
Year
US Rank
Births
vs Prior Year
2023
#1886
314
▲ up 5 · +7% births
2022
#1891
294
▲ up 5 · +11% births
2021
#1896
264
▲ up 2749 · +843% births
2020
#4645
28
▼ down 1616 · -50% births
2015
#3029
56
▼ down 1280 · -53% births
2010
#1749
119
▼ down 790 · -54% births
2005
#959
257
▼ down 406 · -46% births
2000
#553
474
▼ down 247 · -48% births
1995
#306
907
▼ down 119 · -42% births
1990
#187
1,566
▼ down 27 · -12% births
1985
#160
1,787
▲ up 15 · +13% births
1980
#175
1,581
▲ up 178 · +157% births
1975
#353
616
▲ up 1344 · +1020% births
1970
#1697
55
▲ up 3564 · +817% births
1950
#5261
6
—
Name Popularity Timeline
Popularity Statistics for Ebony
1985Rank #160
1,787
#1650
↘Falling
1950 - 202315 years
The story of Ebony
Ebony entered American naming records in 1950 and has been in use for over 74 years. A total of 39,317 babies have received this name. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #5261 in 1950 to #1886 in 2023. Ebony is used for both genders: 99% female and 1% male.
Ebony means "dark, black wood" — 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 Ebony?
Ebony is currently a distinctive and less common name 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 Ebony?
Ebony 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 Ebony?
Ebony is a three-syllable name pronounced EH1 B AH0 N IY0. 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 Ebony?
Ebony 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.
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