Forster

“forester or woodsman”

UK origin · Boy name

♂ 97% boys♀ 3% girls

#1147US 2023

1.1kBirths / yr

→Stable

38All-time births

📅 Since 192000

How to pronounce Forster

FAW·rster

/ˈfɔ.rstɝ/ · stress on FAW · 2 syllables

“forester or woodsman”

UK origin · Boy name

What does Forster mean and where does it come from?

Forster is of English origin and was originally a surname derived from the Middle English word 'forster,' meaning 'one who lives or works in the forest.' Historically, the name can signify someone involved in timber-related occupations or as a protector of woodlands. It has been adopted as a given n

Cultural significance

Forster has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in UK-speaking communities, where it reflects values of forester or woodsman.

Peak popularity

Reached #3148 in 1938 — currently #1147 in the US.

🌿

What middle names flow best with Forster?

Forster works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful

Forster Grace

How popular is Forster right now?

Holding steady — currently #1147 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names

US Trend 1920–2023#1147 · Top 0.85%

1920

1945

2021

2022

2023

Year	US Rank	Births	vs Prior Year
2023	#1147	1,053	▲ up 5 · +2% births
2022	#1152	1,033	▲ up 5 · +3% births
2021	#1157	1,003	▲ up 2113 · +16617% births
1945	#3270	6	▲ up 1616 · +20% births
1920	#4886	5	—

Name Popularity Timeline

Popularity Statistics for Forster

Best Year2023Rank #1147

Peak Count1,053

Average Rank#2322

Current Trend→Stable

Data Range1920 - 20235 years

The story of Forster

Forster entered American naming records in 1920 and has been in use for over 104 years. With 38 total births recorded, Forster remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #4886 in 1920 to #1147 in 2023.

Names that peaked alongside Forster in 1938:

Robert James John William Richard

Forster by decade

Forster peaked in the 1930s. See all 1930s names →

Decade	Births
1920s	10
1930s	12
1940s ★	16

💎Forster has only 38 total recorded births since 1920 — rarer than 99% of names in our database.

What are good nicknames for Forster?

Common

ForFoOrster

What names sound and feel like Forster?

Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Forster also consider these

Foster

American · English

Foyster

United Kingdom · English

Forester

American · Keeper of the

Foister

USA · Likely derived from

Fortner

International · A International name

Forker

International · A International name

Ferster

Latin · A Latin name

Royster

American · royal steward

Common questions about the name Forster

What does the name Forster mean?

Forster means "forester or woodsman" — a name rooted in UK 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 Forster?

Forster is currently a distinctive and less common name as a boy name in the US and is holding steady in popularity, a reliable classic that parents consistently choose.

What is the cultural origin of Forster?

Forster originates from UK tradition. UK 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 Forster?

Forster is a two-syllable name pronounced F AO1 R S T ER0. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.

Is Forster a common or rare name?

Forster is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.