What does Jordan mean and where does it come from?
The name Jordan has its origins in Hebrew, meaning 'to descend' or 'to flow down,' and is primarily known from the Jordan River, which flows into the Dead Sea. While traditionally a male name, it has become increasingly common as a female name in recent decades. Its usage in Western cultures, partic
Cultural significance
Jordan has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Israel-speaking communities, where it reflects values of יָרְדֵן - yarden, meaning 'to descend'.
Peak popularity
Reached #26 in 1997 — currently #584 in the US.
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Related Reading
Israel-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →How else can you spell Jordan?
Same sound, different look — useful if you want something slightly more distinctive
What middle names flow best with Jordan?
Jordan works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Jordan Luke
One syllable · timeless choice
Jordan Grace
One syllable · timeless choice
Jordan Miles
One syllable · vintage charm
Jordan Leah
One syllable · timeless choice
Jordan Beau
One syllable · on the rise
Jordan Brooks
One syllable · timeless choice
How popular is Jordan right now?
Declining — down 46 spots — currently #584 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2025 | #584 | 503 | ▼ down 46 · -11% births |
| 2024 | #538 | 565 | ▼ down 442 · -85% births |
| 2023 | #96 | 3,651 | ▼ down 4 · -7% births |
| 2022 | #92 | 3,914 | ▼ down 4 · -3% births |
| 2021 | #88 | 4,023 | ▼ down 6 · -5% births |
| 2020 | #82 | 4,231 | ▼ down 23 · -33% births |
| 2015 | #59 | 6,303 | ▼ down 13 · -23% births |
| 2010 | #46 | 8,237 | stable · -12% births |
| 2005 | #46 | 9,396 | ▼ down 10 · -23% births |
| 2000 | #36 | 12,168 | ▼ down 7 · -10% births |
| 1995 | #29 | 13,568 | stable · -16% births |
| 1990 | #29 | 16,134 | ▲ up 33 · +196% births |
| 1985 | #62 | 5,459 | ▲ up 98 · +237% births |
| 1980 | #160 | 1,620 | ▲ up 234 · +308% births |
| 1975 | #394 | 397 | — |
The story of Jordan
Jordan has been a beloved American name for over 144 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1880. Its peak popularity was #26 in 1997. Over 516K babies have been given this name — a true American classic. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #359 in 1880 to #96 in 2023. Jordan is used for both genders: 26% female and 74% male.
Names that peaked alongside Jordan in 1997:
Jordan by decade
Jordan peaked in the 1990s. See all 1990s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1880s | 158 | |
| 1890s | 117 | |
| 1900s | 123 | |
| 1910s | 395 | |
| 1920s | 855 | |
| 1930s | 770 | |
| 1940s | 690 | |
| 1950s | 1,218 | |
| 1960s | 1,910 | |
| 1970s | 6,285 | |
| 1980s | 70,950 | |
| 1990s ★ | 206,475 | |
| 2000s | 144,294 | |
| 2010s | 76,362 | |
| 2020s | 12,064 | |
What are good nicknames for Jordan?
BULGARIAN
DanaYordanaYordanka
What names sound and feel like Jordan?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Jordan also consider these
How is Jordan written in other languages?
Gender variants of Jordan
Common questions about the name Jordan
What does the name Jordan mean?
Jordan means "יָרְדֵן - Yarden, meaning 'to descend'" — a name rooted in Israel 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 Jordan?
Jordan is currently ranked #96 in the United States 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 Jordan?
Jordan originates from Israel tradition. Israel 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 Jordan?
Jordan is a two-syllable name pronounced JAW-rdun. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Jordan more of a girl or boy name?
Jordan is a genuinely unisex name used for both boys and girls. The unisex quality makes it particularly versatile for modern families.