What does Linus mean and where does it come from?
Linus is of Greek origin, derived from the word 'linon', which means 'flax', a plant used for making linen and associated with the sun. Linus is historically significant in Greek mythology, where he was a musician and a companion to Orpheus. Linus has gained popularity in various cultures and was fa
Cultural significance
Linus has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Greece-speaking communities, where it reflects values of flax.
Peak popularity
Reached #650 in 1882 — currently #1541 in the US.
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Related Reading
Greece-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Linus?
Linus works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Linus Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Linus Rose
Floral · soft ending
Linus Mae
Sweet · timeless
Linus Claire
French influence · crisp
Linus Jane
Literary · strong
Linus Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Linus right now?
Falling — down 100 spots — currently #1541 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #1541 | 114 | ▼ down 100 · -10% births |
| 2022 | #1441 | 126 | ▲ up 109 · +12% births |
| 2021 | #1550 | 113 | ▼ down 160 · -9% births |
| 2020 | #1390 | 124 | ▼ down 234 · -23% births |
| 2015 | #1156 | 162 | ▲ up 260 · +38% births |
| 2010 | #1416 | 117 | ▲ up 506 · +77% births |
| 2005 | #1922 | 66 | ▲ up 169 · +38% births |
| 2000 | #2091 | 48 | ▲ up 1471 · +167% births |
| 1995 | #3562 | 18 | ▲ up 425 · +29% births |
| 1990 | #3987 | 14 | ▲ up 740 · +75% births |
| 1985 | #4727 | 8 | ▼ down 1991 · -53% births |
| 1980 | #2736 | 17 | ▲ up 36 · +21% births |
| 1975 | #2772 | 14 | ▼ down 355 · -7% births |
| 1970 | #2417 | 15 | ▼ down 687 · -29% births |
| 1965 | #1730 | 21 | — |
The story of Linus
Linus has been a beloved American name for over 142 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1882. With 4,771 total births recorded, Linus remains relatively uncommon. Once ranked #1025 in 1885, the name has become less common in recent years, sitting at #1541 in 2023.
Names that peaked alongside Linus in 1882:
Linus by decade
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1880s | 31 | |
| 1890s | 26 | |
| 1900s | 24 | |
| 1910s | 340 | |
| 1920s | 504 | |
| 1930s | 324 | |
| 1940s | 340 | |
| 1950s | 282 | |
| 1960s | 234 | |
| 1970s | 139 | |
| 1980s | 106 | |
| 1990s | 215 | |
| 2000s | 693 | |
| 2010s ★ | 1,389 | |
| 2020s | 124 | |
💎With 4,771 total births, Linus is an uncommon but established name.
What are good nicknames for Linus?
What names sound and feel like Linus?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Linus also consider these
How is Linus written in other languages?
Common questions about the name Linus
What does the name Linus mean?
Linus means "Flax" — a name rooted in Greece 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 Linus?
Linus is currently a distinctive and less common name as a boy 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 Linus?
Linus originates from Greece tradition. Greece 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 Linus?
Linus is a two-syllable name pronounced L AY1 N AH0 S. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Linus a common or rare name?
Linus is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.