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.
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Related Reading
English-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →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
Most popular combo · classic
Little Rose
Floral · soft ending
Little Mae
Sweet · timeless
Little Claire
French influence · crisp
Little Jane
Literary · strong
Little Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Little right now?
Holding steady — currently #1417 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| 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 | — |
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:
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?
What names sound and feel like Little?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Little also consider these
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.