Foster

“English”

American origin · Unisex name

♂ 98% boys♀ 2% girls

#966US 2023

232Births / yr

↑Rising

12.2kAll-time births

📅 Since 191400

How to pronounce Foster

FAH·ster

/ˈfɑ.stɝ/ · stress on FAH · 2 syllables

“English”

American origin · Unisex name

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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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

How popular is Foster right now?

Rising fast — up 72 spots — currently #966 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names

US Trend 1925–2023#966 · Top 0.71%

1925

1995

2000

2010

2015

2020

2021

2022

2023

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	—

Name Popularity Timeline

Popularity Statistics for Foster

Best Year2023Rank #966

Peak Count232

Average Rank#7338

Current Trend↗Rising

Data Range1925 - 20239 years

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:

Mary Helen Dorothy Margaret Ruth

Foster by decade

Foster peaked in the 1910s. See all 1910s names →

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?

Common

FosFoOster

What names sound and feel like Foster?

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

Forster

UK · forester or woodsman

Foyster

United Kingdom · English

Colter

American · referring to a

Mozter

American · A beloved name

Fester

American · English

Foister

USA · Likely derived from

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.