What does Fulton mean and where does it come from?
Fulton is derived from an Old English surname which originated as a place name. The name became popular in the 19th century and has been used in various forms across the United States and the United Kingdom. It is notable for its association with Robert Fulton, an American engineer and inventor who
Cultural significance
Fulton has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in American-speaking communities, where it reflects values of from the field of fowl or bird.
Peak popularity
Reached #629 in 1887 — currently #2153 in the US.
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Related Reading
American-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →How else can you spell Fulton?
Same sound, different look — useful if you want something slightly more distinctive
What middle names flow best with Fulton?
Fulton works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Fulton Jack
One syllable · timeless choice
Fulton John
One syllable · timeless choice
Fulton Luke
One syllable · timeless choice
Fulton Miles
One syllable · vintage charm
Fulton Beau
One syllable · on the rise
Fulton Brooks
One syllable · timeless choice
How popular is Fulton right now?
Falling — down 89 spots — currently #2153 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2025 | #2153 | 67 | ▼ down 89 · -8% births |
| 2024 | #2064 | 73 | ▲ up 452 · +38% births |
| 2023 | #2516 | 53 | ▼ down 157 · -12% births |
| 2022 | #2359 | 60 | ▼ down 275 · -14% births |
| 2021 | #2084 | 70 | ▼ down 54 · +1% births |
| 2020 | #2030 | 69 | ▲ up 1198 · +97% births |
| 2015 | #3228 | 35 | ▲ up 2813 · +150% births |
| 2010 | #6041 | 14 | ▼ down 1572 · -26% births |
| 2005 | #4469 | 19 | ▼ down 254 · +6% births |
| 2000 | #4215 | 18 | ▲ up 312 · +38% births |
| 1995 | #4527 | 13 | ▲ up 1931 · +86% births |
| 1990 | #6458 | 7 | ▼ down 632 · +17% births |
| 1985 | #5826 | 6 | ▼ down 1957 · -40% births |
| 1980 | #3869 | 10 | ▼ down 1095 · -29% births |
| 1975 | #2774 | 14 | — |
The story of Fulton
Fulton has been a beloved American name for over 140 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1884. With 2,557 total births recorded, Fulton remains relatively uncommon. Once ranked #1250 in 1900, the name has become less common in recent years, sitting at #2516 in 2023.
Names that peaked alongside Fulton in 1887:
Fulton by decade
Fulton peaked in the 1880s. See all 1880s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1880s | 16 | |
| 1890s | 17 | |
| 1900s | 68 | |
| 1910s | 303 | |
| 1920s | 359 | |
| 1930s | 230 | |
| 1940s | 296 | |
| 1950s | 272 | |
| 1960s | 156 | |
| 1970s | 90 | |
| 1980s | 70 | |
| 1990s | 102 | |
| 2000s | 130 | |
| 2010s ★ | 379 | |
| 2020s | 209 | |
💎With 2,557 total births, Fulton is an uncommon but established name.
What are good nicknames for Fulton?
What names sound and feel like Fulton?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Fulton also consider these
Common questions about the name Fulton
What does the name Fulton mean?
Fulton means "From the field of fowl or bird" — 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 Fulton?
Fulton is currently a distinctive and less common name as a boy 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 Fulton?
Fulton 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 Fulton?
Fulton is a two-syllable name pronounced FUHLT-un. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Fulton a common or rare name?
Fulton is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.