📅 Since 1880🏆 19 years in top 1000.47% of births at peak
How to pronounce Lily
LIL·ee
/ˈlɪl.iː/ · stress on LIL · 2 syllables
“pure; innocent”
Symbolizes purity and renewal · England origin
What does Lily mean and where does it come from?
The name Lily has roots in both English and Latin. It is derived from the flower, which symbolizes purity and renewal. The name has been used since the Middle Ages in England and has been particularly popular among Christians, due to its association with the Virgin Mary, often referred to as 'the Li
Cultural significance
Lily has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in England-speaking communities, where it reflects values of pure; innocent.
Rising — up 10 spots — currently #20 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
US Trend 1880–2023#20 · Top 0.01%
1965
1970
1975
1980
1985
1990
1995
2000
2005
2010
2015
2020
2021
2022
2023
Year
US Rank
Births
vs Prior Year
2023
#20
6,170
▲ up 10 · +3% births
2022
#30
6,007
▲ up 1 · +7% births
2021
#31
5,629
▲ up 4 · +8% births
2020
#35
5,195
▼ down 10 · -22% births
2015
#25
6,661
▼ down 8 · -17% births
2010
#17
7,986
▲ up 22 · +31% births
2005
#39
6,088
▲ up 84 · +123% births
2000
#123
2,733
▲ up 198 · +221% births
1995
#321
852
▲ up 263 · +115% births
1990
#584
396
▲ up 130 · +64% births
1985
#714
241
▲ up 120 · +29% births
1980
#834
187
▲ up 164 · +53% births
1975
#998
122
▼ down 8 · -3% births
1970
#990
126
▲ up 91 · +34% births
1965
#1081
94
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Name Popularity Timeline
Popularity Statistics for Lily
2010Rank #17
7,986
#433
↗Rising
1900 - 202328 years
The story of Lily
Lily has been a beloved American name for over 144 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1880. Its peak popularity was #15 in 2011. More than 158,878 babies have been named Lily since 1880. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #241 in 1880 to #20 in 2023. Lily is used for both genders: 100% female and 0% male.
Lily means "pure; innocent" — a name rooted in England 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 Lily?
Lily is currently ranked #20 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 Lily?
Lily originates from England tradition. England 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 Lily?
Lily is a two-syllable name pronounced L IH1 L IY0. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Lily more of a girl or boy name?
Lily is a genuinely unisex name used for both boys and girls. The unisex quality makes it particularly versatile for modern families.
Sibling names that pair with Lily
For a sister
Lily & Evelyn♡
Lily & Eleanor♡
Lily & Scarlett♡
Lily & Audrey♡
For a brother
Lily & Adrian♡
Lily & Blake♡
Lily & Taylor♡
Lily & Ellis♡
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