What does London mean and where does it come from?
London is traditionally known as the capital city of England, but it has increasingly been used as a feminine given name, especially in the United States. The name is believed to derive from the Celtic word 'Londinios', meaning 'the place belonging to a man named Londin'. It gained popularity as a n
Cultural significance
London has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in United Kingdom-speaking communities, where it reflects values of english.
Peak popularity
Reached #85 in 2013 — currently #313 in the US.
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Related Reading
United Kingdom-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →How else can you spell London?
Same sound, different look — useful if you want something slightly more distinctive
What middle names flow best with London?
London works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
London Grace
Most popular combo · classic
London Rose
Floral · soft ending
London Mae
Sweet · timeless
London Claire
French influence · crisp
London Jane
Literary · strong
London Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is London right now?
Declining — down 16 spots — currently #313 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #313 | 987 | ▼ down 16 · -8% births |
| 2022 | #297 | 1,071 | ▼ down 80 · -21% births |
| 2021 | #217 | 1,357 | ▼ down 22 · -8% births |
| 2020 | #195 | 1,477 | ▼ down 90 · -49% births |
| 2015 | #105 | 2,915 | ▲ up 4 · +2% births |
| 2010 | #109 | 2,871 | ▲ up 427 · +434% births |
| 2005 | #536 | 538 | ▲ up 293 · +99% births |
| 2000 | #829 | 271 | ▲ up 317 · +77% births |
| 1995 | #1146 | 153 | ▲ up 253 · +35% births |
| 1990 | #1399 | 113 | ▲ up 1472 · +253% births |
| 1985 | #2871 | 32 | ▲ up 2128 · +129% births |
| 1980 | #4999 | 14 | ▲ up 1018 · +56% births |
| 1975 | #6017 | 9 | ▼ down 2798 · -55% births |
| 1970 | #3219 | 20 | ▲ up 3395 · +300% births |
| 1965 | #6614 | 5 | — |
The story of London
London is a relatively modern name, first appearing in US records in 1963. Its peak popularity was #85 in 2013. A total of 48,698 babies have received this name. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #6614 in 1965 to #313 in 2023. London is used for both genders: 81% female and 19% male.
Names that peaked alongside London in 2013:
London by decade
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1880s | 10 | |
| 1900s | 10 | |
| 1910s | 70 | |
| 1920s | 84 | |
| 1930s | 40 | |
| 1940s | 65 | |
| 1950s | 70 | |
| 1960s | 258 | |
| 1970s | 363 | |
| 1980s | 806 | |
| 1990s | 2,737 | |
| 2000s | 11,979 | |
| 2010s ★ | 30,472 | |
| 2020s | 1,734 | |
What are good nicknames for London?
What names sound and feel like London?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love London also consider these
How is London written in other languages?
Common questions about the name London
What does the name London mean?
London means "English" — a name rooted in United Kingdom 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 London?
London is currently ranked #313 in the United States 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 London?
London originates from United Kingdom tradition. United Kingdom 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 London?
London is a two-syllable name pronounced L AH1 N D AH0 N. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is London more of a girl or boy name?
London is a genuinely unisex name used for both boys and girls. The unisex quality makes it particularly versatile for modern families.