What does Foster mean and where does it come from?
The name Foster traditionally has English roots and is primarily known as a surname but has grown in use as a first name, especially in the United States. It suggests qualities of nurturing and care, reflecting its meaning closely. Notable people with the surname include the American politician Benj
Cultural significance
Foster has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in American-speaking communities, where it reflects values of english.
Peak popularity
Reached #3643 in 1914 — currently #966 in the US.
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Related Reading
American-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Foster?
Foster works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Foster Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Foster Rose
Floral · soft ending
Foster Mae
Sweet · timeless
Foster Claire
French influence · crisp
Foster Jane
Literary · strong
Foster Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Foster right now?
Rising fast — up 72 spots — currently #966 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #966 | 232 | ▲ up 72 · +9% births |
| 2022 | #1038 | 213 | ▼ down 29 · -2% births |
| 2021 | #1009 | 217 | ▲ up 4620 · +933% births |
| 2020 | #5629 | 21 | ▲ up 4516 · +110% births |
| 2015 | #10145 | 10 | ▲ up 6853 · +100% births |
| 2010 | #16998 | 5 | ▼ down 5168 · -29% births |
| 2000 | #11830 | 7 | ▲ up 1591 · +40% births |
| 1995 | #13421 | 5 | ▼ down 8419 |
| 1925 | #5002 | 5 | — |
The story of Foster
Foster entered American naming records in 1914 and has been in use for over 110 years. A total of 12,179 babies have received this name. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #5002 in 1925 to #966 in 2023. Foster is used for both genders: 2% female and 98% male.
Names that peaked alongside Foster in 1914:
Foster by decade
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1880s | 241 | |
| 1890s | 351 | |
| 1900s | 343 | |
| 1910s | 1,411 | |
| 1920s | 1,660 | |
| 1930s | 1,040 | |
| 1940s | 1,070 | |
| 1950s | 758 | |
| 1960s | 476 | |
| 1970s | 359 | |
| 1980s | 360 | |
| 1990s | 872 | |
| 2000s | 1,009 | |
| 2010s ★ | 1,985 | |
| 2020s | 244 | |
What are good nicknames for Foster?
What names sound and feel like Foster?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Foster also consider these
Common questions about the name Foster
What does the name Foster mean?
Foster means "English" — 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 Foster?
Foster is currently ranked #966 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 Foster?
Foster 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 Foster?
Foster is a two-syllable name pronounced F AA1 S T ER0. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Foster a common or rare name?
Foster is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.