What does Lacey mean and where does it come from?
The name Lacey has Old French origins, specifically derived from the surname Lacey, which itself comes from the French place name 'Lassy'. Initially a surname, Lacey became popular as a given name in the 20th century. It conveys a sense of delicacy and sophistication due to its association with lace
Cultural significance
Lacey has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in English-speaking communities, where it reflects values of english.
Peak popularity
Reached #116 in 1984 — currently #762 in the US.
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Related Reading
English-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →How else can you spell Lacey?
Same sound, different look — useful if you want something slightly more distinctive
What middle names flow best with Lacey?
Lacey works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Lacey Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Lacey Rose
Floral · soft ending
Lacey Mae
Sweet · timeless
Lacey Claire
French influence · crisp
Lacey Jane
Literary · strong
Lacey Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Lacey right now?
Rising fast — up 117 spots — currently #762 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #762 | 370 | ▲ up 117 · +17% births |
| 2022 | #879 | 317 | ▼ down 70 · -8% births |
| 2021 | #809 | 346 | ▼ down 92 · -10% births |
| 2020 | #717 | 385 | ▼ down 238 · -43% births |
| 2015 | #479 | 674 | ▼ down 44 · -4% births |
| 2010 | #435 | 705 | ▲ up 3 · +1% births |
| 2005 | #438 | 696 | ▼ down 67 · -12% births |
| 2000 | #371 | 792 | ▼ down 135 · -34% births |
| 1995 | #236 | 1,209 | ▼ down 88 · -41% births |
| 1990 | #148 | 2,047 | ▼ down 24 · -13% births |
| 1985 | #124 | 2,358 | ▲ up 153 · +163% births |
| 1980 | #277 | 897 | ▲ up 288 · +205% births |
| 1975 | #565 | 294 | ▲ up 685 · +230% births |
| 1970 | #1250 | 89 | ▲ up 821 · +178% births |
| 1965 | #2071 | 32 | — |
The story of Lacey
Lacey has been a beloved American name for over 136 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1888. A total of 53,408 babies have received this name. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #3189 in 1915 to #762 in 2023. Lacey is used for both genders: 97% female and 3% male.
Names that peaked alongside Lacey in 1984:
Lacey by decade
Lacey peaked in the 1980s. See all 1980s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1880s | 11 | |
| 1900s | 29 | |
| 1910s | 138 | |
| 1920s | 205 | |
| 1930s | 158 | |
| 1940s | 230 | |
| 1950s | 316 | |
| 1960s | 527 | |
| 1970s | 2,977 | |
| 1980s ★ | 20,975 | |
| 1990s | 13,963 | |
| 2000s | 7,435 | |
| 2010s | 6,059 | |
| 2020s | 385 | |
What are good nicknames for Lacey?
What names sound and feel like Lacey?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Lacey also consider these
Common questions about the name Lacey
What does the name Lacey mean?
Lacey means "English" — 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 Lacey?
Lacey is currently ranked #762 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 Lacey?
Lacey 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 Lacey?
Lacey is a two-syllable name pronounced L EY1 S IY0. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Lacey more of a girl or boy name?
Lacey is a genuinely unisex name used for both boys and girls. The unisex quality makes it particularly versatile for modern families.