What does Lopez mean and where does it come from?
Lopez is a common Spanish surname derived from the given name Lope, which means 'wolf'. The name indicates lineage, as it traditionally means 'son of Lope'. It is prevalent in Spain, Latin America, and among Spanish-speaking populations in the United States. Notable individuals include the American
Cultural significance
Lopez has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Spain-speaking communities, where it reflects values of son of lope; wolf.
Peak popularity
Reached #3655 in 1954 — currently #942 in the US.
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Related Reading
Spain-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Lopez?
Lopez works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Lopez Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Lopez Rose
Floral · soft ending
Lopez Mae
Sweet · timeless
Lopez Claire
French influence · crisp
Lopez Jane
Literary · strong
Lopez Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Lopez right now?
Holding steady — currently #942 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #942 | 1,258 | ▲ up 5 · +2% births |
| 2022 | #947 | 1,238 | ▲ up 5 · +2% births |
| 2021 | #952 | 1,208 | ▲ up 6149 · +17157% births |
| 1995 | #7101 | 7 | ▼ down 632 · +40% births |
| 1980 | #6469 | 5 | ▼ down 2175 |
| 1960 | #4294 | 5 | ▼ down 173 |
| 1955 | #4121 | 5 | ▼ down 352 · -17% births |
| 1915 | #3769 | 6 | — |
The story of Lopez
Lopez entered American naming records in 1915 and has been in use for over 109 years. With 90 total births recorded, Lopez remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #3769 in 1915 to #942 in 2023.
Names that peaked alongside Lopez in 1954:
Lopez by decade
Lopez peaked in the 1950s. See all 1950s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1910s | 6 | |
| 1950s | 21 | |
| 1960s | 15 | |
| 1970s | 7 | |
| 1980s ★ | 29 | |
| 1990s | 12 | |
💎Lopez has only 90 total recorded births since 1915 — rarer than 99% of names in our database.
What are good nicknames for Lopez?
What names sound and feel like Lopez?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Lopez also consider these
Common questions about the name Lopez
What does the name Lopez mean?
Lopez means "Son of Lope; wolf" — a name rooted in Spain 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 Lopez?
Lopez is currently ranked #942 as a boy name in the US and is holding steady in popularity, a reliable classic that parents consistently choose.
What is the cultural origin of Lopez?
Lopez originates from Spain tradition. Spain 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 Lopez?
Lopez is a two-syllable name pronounced L OW1 P EH0 Z. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Lopez a common or rare name?
Lopez is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.