What does Ermine mean and where does it come from?
The name Ermine is derived from the Middle English word for the stoat, which changes its fur color to white in winter. Historically, ermine fur has been associated with royalty and high status, often used in the decoration of robes and gowns for ceremonies. The name has been used in various cultures
Cultural significance
Ermine has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in France-speaking communities, where it reflects values of the white fur of the stoat, used as a symbol of purity and nobility..
Peak popularity
Reached #907 in 1883 — currently #1184 in the US.
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Related Reading
France-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Ermine?
Ermine works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Ermine Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Ermine Rose
Floral · soft ending
Ermine Mae
Sweet · timeless
Ermine Claire
French influence · crisp
Ermine Jane
Literary · strong
Ermine Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Ermine right now?
Holding steady — currently #1184 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #1184 | 1,016 | ▲ up 5 · +2% births |
| 2022 | #1189 | 996 | ▲ up 5 · +3% births |
| 2021 | #1194 | 966 | ▲ up 2899 · +16000% births |
| 1930 | #4093 | 6 | ▼ down 1432 · -54% births |
| 1925 | #2661 | 13 | ▼ down 371 · -19% births |
| 1920 | #2290 | 16 | ▼ down 218 · +7% births |
| 1915 | #2072 | 15 | ▼ down 617 · +36% births |
| 1910 | #1455 | 11 | ▼ down 96 · +22% births |
| 1905 | #1359 | 9 | ▲ up 254 · +29% births |
| 1900 | #1613 | 7 | ▼ down 363 · -12% births |
| 1895 | #1250 | 8 | ▲ up 18 · +33% births |
| 1890 | #1268 | 6 | — |
The story of Ermine
Ermine has been a beloved American name for over 141 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1883. With 589 total births recorded, Ermine remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #1268 in 1890 to #1184 in 2023. Ermine is used for both genders: 89% female and 11% male.
Names that peaked alongside Ermine in 1883:
Ermine by decade
Ermine peaked in the 1880s. See all 1880s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1880s | 21 | |
| 1890s | 57 | |
| 1900s | 66 | |
| 1910s ★ | 177 | |
| 1920s | 159 | |
| 1930s | 72 | |
| 1940s | 25 | |
| 1950s | 12 | |
💎Ermine has only 589 total recorded births since 1883 — rarer than 99% of names in our database.
What are good nicknames for Ermine?
What names sound and feel like Ermine?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Ermine also consider these
Common questions about the name Ermine
What does the name Ermine mean?
Ermine means "The white fur of the stoat, used as a symbol of purity and nobility." — a name rooted in France 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 Ermine?
Ermine 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 Ermine?
Ermine originates from France tradition. France 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 Ermine?
Ermine is a two-syllable name pronounced ER1 M AH0 N. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Ermine a common or rare name?
Ermine is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.