What does Hood mean and where does it come from?
The name Hood is derived from Old English and originally referred to someone who lived in a particular neighborhood or area. It comes from the word 'hod,' meaning a covering or shelter. The name has morphed from a surname into a given name in modern times, often associated with cultural references,
Cultural significance
Hood has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in English-speaking communities, where it reflects values of a person from a hood or neighborhood.
Peak popularity
Reached #3444 in 1922 — currently #1327 in the US.
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Related Reading
English-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Hood?
Hood works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Hood Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Hood Rose
Floral · soft ending
Hood Claire
French influence · crisp
Hood Jane
Literary · strong
Hood Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Hood right now?
Holding steady — currently #1327 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #1327 | 873 | ▲ up 5 · +2% births |
| 2022 | #1332 | 853 | ▲ up 5 · +4% births |
| 2021 | #1337 | 823 | ▲ up 2561 · +16360% births |
| 1935 | #3898 | 5 | — |
The story of Hood
Hood entered American naming records in 1914 and has been in use for over 110 years. With 35 total births recorded, Hood remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #3898 in 1935 to #1327 in 2023.
Names that peaked alongside Hood in 1922:
💎Hood has only 35 total recorded births since 1914 — rarer than 99% of names in our database.
What are good nicknames for Hood?
What names sound and feel like Hood?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Hood also consider these
Common questions about the name Hood
What does the name Hood mean?
Hood means "a person from a hood or neighborhood" — a name rooted in English 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 Hood?
Hood 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 Hood?
Hood originates from English tradition. English 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 Hood?
Hood is a one-syllable name pronounced HH UH1 D. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
How does Hood sound with different last names?
As a one-syllable name, Hood flows best with last names of two or three syllables. Avoid last names ending in the same sound as Hood ends, as this can create an unwanted rhyme. Test by saying the full name out loud several times.