Little

“small”

English origin · Unisex name

♂ 88% boys♀ 12% girls

#1417US 2023

783Births / yr

→Stable

1.8kAll-time births

📅 Since 191800

How to pronounce Little

LIT·ul

/ˈlɪt.əl/ · stress on LIT · 2 syllables

“small”

English origin · Unisex name

What does Little mean and where does it come from?

Little is a less common feminine name and is often used as a surname as well. It is derived from the Old English 'pyttel' meaning 'small'. The name can also be used as a term of endearment. Little is not traditionally seen as a first name and may be used more commonly in certain cultures or regions

Cultural significance

Little has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in English-speaking communities, where it reflects values of english.

Peak popularity

Reached #3430 in 1929 — currently #1417 in the US.

🌿

What middle names flow best with Little?

Little works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful

Little Grace

How popular is Little right now?

Holding steady — currently #1417 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names

US Trend 1920–2023#1417 · Top 1.0%

1920

1925

1940

1950

1960

1965

1975

1980

1990

2021

2022

2023

Year	US Rank	Births	vs Prior Year
2023	#1417	783	▲ up 5 · +3% births
2022	#1422	763	▲ up 5 · +4% births
2021	#1427	733	▲ up 11598 · +14560% births
1990	#13025	5	▼ down 6669 · -50% births
1980	#6356	10	▼ down 346 · +11% births
1975	#6010	9	▲ up 586 · +80% births
1965	#6596	5	▼ down 1780 · -37% births
1960	#4816	8	▲ up 543 · +60% births
1950	#5359	5	▼ down 1441 · -17% births
1940	#3918	6	▲ up 1119 · +20% births
1925	#5037	5	▼ down 3
1920	#5034	5	—

Name Popularity Timeline

Popularity Statistics for Little

Best Year2023Rank #1417

Peak Count783

Average Rank#5035

Current Trend↗Rising

Data Range1920 - 202312 years

The story of Little

Little entered American naming records in 1918 and has been in use for over 106 years. With 1,791 total births recorded, Little remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #5034 in 1920 to #1417 in 2023. Little is used for both genders: 12% female and 88% male.

Names that peaked alongside Little in 1929:

Mary Betty Dorothy Helen Margaret

Little by decade

Little peaked in the 1920s. See all 1920s names →

Decade	Births
1880s	15
1890s	20
1900s	25
1910s	129
1920s	233
1930s	156
1940s	180
1950s	197
1960s	239
1970s ★	295
1980s	173
1990s	105
2000s	14
2010s	10

💎With 1,791 total births, Little is an uncommon but established name.

What are good nicknames for Little?

Common

LitLiIttle

What names sound and feel like Little?

Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Little also consider these

Lindle

English · Old English

Bittle

Arabic · A Arabic name

English · A beloved name

Mirtle

USA · English

Cristle

English · follower of Christ

Brittle

Celtic · A Celtic name

Common questions about the name Little

What does the name Little mean?

Little 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 Little?

Little is currently a distinctive and less common name 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 Little?

Little 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 Little?

Little is a two-syllable name pronounced L IH1 T AH0 L. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.

Is Little a common or rare name?

Little is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.