What does Eliot mean and where does it come from?
Eliot is traditionally a masculine name but is increasingly used for females. It originates from the Hebrew name Eliyahu (אֵלִיָּהוּ), which means 'the Lord is my God'. The name Eliot can also be linked to the Old French name 'Elie' that carries similar meanings and has biblical roots. The female us
Cultural significance
Eliot has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in English-speaking communities, where it reflects values of the lord is my god.
Peak popularity
Reached #3978 in 2018 — currently #1360 in the US.
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Related Reading
English-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Eliot?
Eliot works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Eliot Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Eliot Rose
Floral · soft ending
Eliot Mae
Sweet · timeless
Eliot Claire
French influence · crisp
Eliot Jane
Literary · strong
Eliot Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Eliot right now?
Declining — down 30 spots — currently #1360 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #1360 | 138 | ▼ down 30 · -2% births |
| 2022 | #1330 | 141 | ▼ down 75 · -7% births |
| 2021 | #1255 | 152 | ▲ up 3734 · +508% births |
| 2020 | #4989 | 25 | ▲ up 153 · -4% births |
| 2015 | #5142 | 26 | ▼ down 156 · -7% births |
| 2010 | #4986 | 28 | ▲ up 629 · +27% births |
| 2005 | #5615 | 22 | ▲ up 1953 · +100% births |
| 1995 | #7568 | 11 | ▲ up 5529 · +120% births |
| 1990 | #13097 | 5 | — |
The story of Eliot
Eliot is a relatively modern name, first appearing in US records in 1987. With 7,700 total births recorded, Eliot remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #13097 in 1990 to #1360 in 2023. Eliot is used for both genders: 7% female and 93% male.
Names that peaked alongside Eliot in 2018:
Eliot by decade
Eliot peaked in the 2010s. See all 2010s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1900s | 20 | |
| 1910s | 141 | |
| 1920s | 188 | |
| 1930s | 141 | |
| 1940s | 285 | |
| 1950s | 528 | |
| 1960s | 580 | |
| 1970s | 505 | |
| 1980s | 760 | |
| 1990s | 842 | |
| 2000s | 1,409 | |
| 2010s ★ | 2,124 | |
| 2020s | 177 | |
💎With 7,700 total births, Eliot is an uncommon but established name.
What are good nicknames for Eliot?
What names sound and feel like Eliot?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Eliot also consider these
Common questions about the name Eliot
What does the name Eliot mean?
Eliot means "the Lord is my God" — 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 Eliot?
Eliot is currently a distinctive and less common name 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 Eliot?
Eliot 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.
Is Eliot a common or rare name?
Eliot is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.
Is Eliot more of a girl or boy name?
Eliot is a genuinely unisex name used for both boys and girls. The unisex quality makes it particularly versatile for modern families.