What does Memphis mean and where does it come from?
Memphis is derived from the ancient Egyptian city of the same name, which is significant in various historical and cultural contexts. In the U.S., the name has seen a rise in popularity as a unique choice for girls, especially in the southern states. Memphis is also associated with the famous city i
Cultural significance
Memphis has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in American-speaking communities, where it reflects values of established and beautiful.
Peak popularity
Reached #1301 in 2020 — currently #1494 in the US.
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Related Reading
American-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →How else can you spell Memphis?
Same sound, different look — useful if you want something slightly more distinctive
What middle names flow best with Memphis?
Memphis works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Memphis Jack
One syllable · timeless choice
Memphis John
One syllable · timeless choice
Memphis Luke
One syllable · timeless choice
Memphis Grace
One syllable · timeless choice
Memphis Leah
One syllable · timeless choice
Memphis Beau
One syllable · on the rise
How popular is Memphis right now?
Rising fast — up 91 spots — currently #1494 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2025 | #1494 | 143 | ▲ up 91 · +8% births |
| 2024 | #1585 | 133 | ▼ down 1096 · -78% births |
| 2023 | #489 | 613 | ▼ down 48 · -13% births |
| 2022 | #441 | 705 | ▼ down 37 · -8% births |
| 2021 | #404 | 768 | ▲ up 897 · +357% births |
| 2020 | #1301 | 168 | ▲ up 634 · +62% births |
| 2015 | #1935 | 104 | ▲ up 845 · +65% births |
| 2010 | #2780 | 63 | ▲ up 1425 · +91% births |
| 2005 | #4205 | 33 | ▲ up 9102 · +450% births |
| 2000 | #13307 | 6 | ▼ down 8432 · +20% births |
| 1915 | #4875 | 5 | — |
The story of Memphis
Memphis entered American naming records in 1915 and has been in use for over 109 years. With 8,730 total births recorded, Memphis remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #4875 in 1915 to #489 in 2023. Memphis is used for both genders: 18% female and 82% male.
Names that peaked alongside Memphis in 2020:
Memphis by decade
Memphis peaked in the 2020s. See all 2020s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1910s | 21 | |
| 1920s | 47 | |
| 1930s | 12 | |
| 1940s | 17 | |
| 1990s | 17 | |
| 2000s | 2,383 | |
| 2010s ★ | 5,422 | |
| 2020s | 2,011 | |
💎With 8,730 total births, Memphis is an uncommon but established name.
What are good nicknames for Memphis?
What names sound and feel like Memphis?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Memphis also consider these
Common questions about the name Memphis
What does the name Memphis mean?
Memphis means "established and beautiful" — a name rooted in American 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 Memphis?
Memphis is currently ranked #489 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 Memphis?
Memphis originates from American tradition. American 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 Memphis?
Memphis is a two-syllable name pronounced MEMF-us. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Memphis more of a girl or boy name?
Memphis is a genuinely unisex name used for both boys and girls. The unisex quality makes it particularly versatile for modern families.