Irwin

“green / fresh water”

Scotland origin · Unisex name

♂ 100% boys♀ 0% girls

#1718US 2023

482Births / yr

→Stable

15.9kAll-time births

📅 Since 191800

How to pronounce Irwin

ER·wun

/ˈɝ.wən/ · stress on ER · 2 syllables

“green / fresh water”

Scotland origin · Unisex name

What does Irwin mean and where does it come from?

Irwin is of Scottish origin, derived from the place name meaning 'green water' or 'fresh water.' While traditionally a male name, it is increasingly being adopted as a feminine name. The name reflects the beauty of nature and water, and it has notable bearers such as Irwin Allen, a famous filmmaker,

Cultural significance

Irwin has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Scotland-speaking communities, where it reflects values of green / fresh water.

Peak popularity

Reached #4044 in 1925 — currently #1718 in the US.

🌿

What middle names flow best with Irwin?

Irwin works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful

Irwin Grace

How popular is Irwin right now?

Holding steady — currently #1718 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names

US Trend 1925–2023#1718 · Top 1.3%

1925

2021

2022

2023

Year	US Rank	Births	vs Prior Year
2023	#1718	482	▲ up 5 · +4% births
2022	#1723	462	▲ up 5 · +7% births
2021	#1728	432	▲ up 2316 · +6071% births
1925	#4044	7	—

Name Popularity Timeline

Popularity Statistics for Irwin

Best Year2023Rank #1718

Peak Count482

Average Rank#2303

Current Trend→Stable

Data Range1925 - 20234 years

The story of Irwin

Irwin entered American naming records in 1918 and has been in use for over 106 years. A total of 15,893 babies have received this name. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #4044 in 1925 to #1718 in 2023. Irwin is used for both genders: 0% female and 100% male.

Names that peaked alongside Irwin in 1925:

Mary Dorothy Betty Helen Margaret

Irwin by decade

Irwin peaked in the 1920s. See all 1920s names →

Decade	Births
1880s	223
1890s	258
1900s	337
1910s	1,907
1920s ★	4,440
1930s	3,602
1940s	1,851
1950s	1,139
1960s	575
1970s	264
1980s	309
1990s	420
2000s	364
2010s	185
2020s	19

What are good nicknames for Irwin?

Common

Irw

What names sound and feel like Irwin?

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

Irbin

Albania · little iron

Irmin

Irish · A Irish name

Irvin

American · Friend of the

English · boar settlement

Kirwin

Ireland · Little dark one

Erwin

Germanic · Meaning 'friend of

Common questions about the name Irwin

What does the name Irwin mean?

Irwin means "green / fresh water" — a name rooted in Scotland 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 Irwin?

Irwin is currently a distinctive and less common name as a baby name in the US and is holding steady in popularity, a reliable classic that parents consistently choose.

What is the cultural origin of Irwin?

Irwin originates from Scotland tradition. Scotland 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 Irwin?

Irwin is a two-syllable name pronounced ER1 W AH0 N. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.

Is Irwin a common or rare name?

Irwin is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.