What does Indiana mean and where does it come from?
The name Indiana is derived from the word 'Indian,' referring to the indigenous peoples of the Americas. It became popularized in the United States due to the state of Indiana, which was named with this context in mind. The name has a romantic and adventurous quality, often portrayed in literature a
Cultural significance
Indiana has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in American-speaking communities, where it reflects values of land of the indians.
Falling — down 202 spots — currently #2025 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
US Trend 1880–2023#2025 · Top 1.5%
1920
1925
1930
1940
1985
1990
1995
2000
2005
2010
2015
2020
2021
2022
2023
Year
US Rank
Births
vs Prior Year
2023
#2025
97
▼ down 202 · -13% births
2022
#1823
112
▼ down 13
2021
#1810
112
▲ up 130 · +15% births
2020
#1940
97
▲ up 529 · +33% births
2015
#2469
73
▲ up 1831 · +115% births
2010
#4300
34
▲ up 658 · +31% births
2005
#4958
26
▼ down 308 · +4% births
2000
#4650
25
▲ up 2871 · +127% births
1995
#7521
11
▲ up 984 · +22% births
1990
#8505
9
▼ down 935 · +13% births
1985
#7570
8
▼ down 3705 · +33% births
1940
#3865
6
▲ up 185
1930
#4050
6
▼ down 385 · -25% births
1925
#3665
8
▼ down 765 · -27% births
1920
#2900
11
—
Name Popularity Timeline
Popularity Statistics for Indiana
1910Rank #1637
112
#3948
↗Rising
1910 - 202317 years
The story of Indiana
Indiana has been a beloved American name for over 144 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1880. With 2,696 total births recorded, Indiana remains relatively uncommon. Once ranked #604 in 1880, the name has become less common in recent years, sitting at #2025 in 2023. Indiana is used for both genders: 59% female and 41% male.
Indiana means "Land of the Indians" — 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 Indiana?
Indiana is currently a distinctive and less common name 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 Indiana?
Indiana 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 Indiana?
Indiana is a four-syllable name pronounced IH2 N D IY0 AE1 N AH0. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
What sibling names go well with Indiana?
Indiana pairs beautifully with sibling names that share a similar American heritage or complement its melodic and flowing sound. Names with a similar vibe create a cohesive sibling set without matching too closely.
Sibling names that pair with Indiana
For a sister
Indiana & Hazel♡
Indiana & Josie♡
Indiana & Georgia♡
Indiana & Walter♡
For a brother
Indiana & John♡
Indiana & Josie♡
Indiana & Georgia♡
Indiana & Walter♡
Save your shortlist
Get your saved names emailed to you + weekly picks
Worldwide ranking · 2023
Country
Rank
🇺🇸 USA
#2025
🇬🇧 UK
—
🇨🇦 Canada
—
🇦🇺 Australia
—
Parents who viewed Indiana also looked at…
Based on what other parents saved alongside Indiana