“The name is derived from the holly tree, symbolizing protection and peace.” — Associated with the Christmas season due to the holly tree's signi
American origin · Unisex name
♂ 1% boys♀ 99% girls
#451US 2023
682Births / yr
↑Rising
203.3kAll-time births
📅 Since 1893🏆 24 years in top 1000.34% of births at peak
How to pronounce Holly
HAH·lee
/ˈhɑ.liː/ · stress on HAH · 2 syllables
“The name is derived from the holly tree, symbolizing protection and peace.”
Associated with the Christmas season due to the holly tree's signi · American origin
What does Holly mean and where does it come from?
Holly is a name rooted in English tradition, derived from the Old English word 'holegn'. It gained popularity in the 20th century, especially in the United Kingdom and the United States, often associated with the Christmas season due to the holly tree's significance in winter celebrations. The name
Cultural significance
Holly has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in American-speaking communities, where it reflects values of the name is derived from the holly tree, symbolizing protection and peace..
Rising — up 7 spots — currently #451 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
US Trend 1910–2023#451 · Top 0.33%
1965
1970
1975
1980
1985
1990
1995
2000
2005
2010
2015
2020
2021
2022
2023
Year
US Rank
Births
vs Prior Year
2023
#451
682
▲ up 7 · -1% births
2022
#458
692
▲ up 9 · +3% births
2021
#467
672
▲ up 14 · +7% births
2020
#481
629
▲ up 10 · -4% births
2015
#491
653
▼ down 82 · -16% births
2010
#409
773
▼ down 100 · -26% births
2005
#309
1,040
▼ down 120 · -38% births
2000
#189
1,690
▼ down 63 · -34% births
1995
#126
2,544
▼ down 37 · -33% births
1990
#89
3,771
▼ down 33 · -33% births
1985
#56
5,602
▼ down 4 · +6% births
1980
#52
5,285
▲ up 3 · +5% births
1975
#55
5,049
▲ up 19 · +2% births
1970
#74
4,942
▲ up 39 · +47% births
1965
#113
3,358
—
Name Popularity Timeline
Popularity Statistics for Holly
1980Rank #52
5,602
#623
↗Rising
1910 - 202326 years
The story of Holly
Holly has been a beloved American name for over 131 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1893. Its peak popularity was #48 in 1979. More than 203,285 babies have been named Holly since 1893. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #1962 in 1910 to #451 in 2023. Holly is used for both genders: 99% female and 1% male.
Holly means "The name is derived from the holly tree, symbolizing protection and peace." — 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 Holly?
Holly is currently ranked #451 in the United States as a baby name in the US and is rapidly gaining popularity — searches for Holly have increased significantly in recent years.
What is the cultural origin of Holly?
Holly 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 Holly?
Holly is a two-syllable name pronounced HH AA1 L IY0. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Holly trending right now?
Holly is currently on the rise — it has gained significant momentum in recent years as parents discover its appeal.
Sibling names that pair with Holly
For a sister
Holly & Weston♡
Holly & Micah♡
Holly & Austin♡
Holly & Carson♡
For a brother
Holly & Matthew♡
Holly & Wesley♡
Holly & Weston♡
Holly & Micah♡
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