What does King mean and where does it come from?
Though traditionally a male name, King is increasingly being used as a unisex name, including for females. The use of 'King' as a first name has been noted as a trend reflecting empowerment and strength. Its use may draw inspiration from famous figures, including women who have displayed leadership
Cultural significance
King has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in American-speaking communities, where it reflects values of english.
Peak popularity
Reached #342 in 2024 — currently #405 in the US.
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Related Reading
American-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →How else can you spell King?
Same sound, different look — useful if you want something slightly more distinctive
What middle names flow best with King?
King works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
King Jack
One syllable · timeless choice
King John
One syllable · timeless choice
King Luke
One syllable · timeless choice
King Miles
One syllable · vintage charm
King Beau
One syllable · on the rise
King Brooks
One syllable · timeless choice
How popular is King right now?
Falling — down 63 spots — currently #405 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2025 | #405 | 786 | ▼ down 63 · -22% births |
| 2024 | #342 | 1,006 | ▼ down 76 · -22% births |
| 2023 | #266 | 1,284 | ▼ down 44 · -22% births |
| 2022 | #222 | 1,653 | ▼ down 37 · -20% births |
| 2021 | #185 | 2,054 | — |
The story of King
King entered American naming records in 1929 and has been in use for over 95 years. A total of 30,945 babies have received this name. King is used for both genders: 0% female and 100% male.
Names that peaked alongside King in 2024:
King by decade
King peaked in the 2020s. See all 2020s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1880s | 229 | |
| 1890s | 233 | |
| 1900s | 277 | |
| 1910s | 795 | |
| 1920s | 1,003 | |
| 1930s | 801 | |
| 1940s | 818 | |
| 1950s | 708 | |
| 1960s | 458 | |
| 1970s | 316 | |
| 1980s | 334 | |
| 1990s | 439 | |
| 2000s | 1,949 | |
| 2010s ★ | 20,348 | |
| 2020s | 4,029 | |
What are good nicknames for King?
What names sound and feel like King?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love King also consider these
Common questions about the name King
What does the name King mean?
King means "English" — 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 King?
King is currently ranked #266 in the United States 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 King?
King 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 King?
King is a one-syllable name pronounced KING. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
How does King sound with different last names?
As a one-syllable name, King flows best with last names of two or three syllables. Avoid last names ending in the same sound as King ends, as this can create an unwanted rhyme. Test by saying the full name out loud several times.