What does Misty mean and where does it come from?
Misty is a modern English name that derives from 'mist', referring to an atmospheric phenomenon characterized by tiny water droplets suspended in the air. The name gained popularity in the late 20th century and is often used as a poetic or nature-inspired name. Misty is sometimes used in pop culture
Cultural significance
Misty has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in English-speaking communities, where it reflects values of a cloudy or foggy time of day.
Peak popularity
Reached #40 in 1977 — currently #4140 in the US.
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Related Reading
English-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →How else can you spell Misty?
Same sound, different look — useful if you want something slightly more distinctive
What middle names flow best with Misty?
Misty works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Misty Leah
One syllable · timeless choice
Misty Quinn
One syllable · timeless choice
Misty Blair
One syllable · on the rise
Misty Ruth
One syllable · timeless choice
Misty Wren
One syllable · vintage charm
Misty Faith
One syllable · vintage charm
How popular is Misty right now?
Declining — down 45 spots — currently #4140 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2025 | #4140 | 35 | ▼ down 45 · -3% births |
| 2024 | #4095 | 36 | ▼ down 2560 · -95% births |
| 2023 | #1535 | 665 | ▲ up 5 · +3% births |
| 2022 | #1540 | 645 | ▲ up 5 · +5% births |
| 2021 | #1545 | 615 | ▲ up 2281 · +1562% births |
| 2020 | #3826 | 37 | ▼ down 646 · -29% births |
| 2015 | #3180 | 52 | ▼ down 507 · -22% births |
| 2010 | #2673 | 67 | ▼ down 1154 · -51% births |
| 2005 | #1519 | 136 | ▼ down 615 · -44% births |
| 2000 | #904 | 242 | ▼ down 342 · -41% births |
| 1995 | #562 | 412 | ▼ down 283 · -59% births |
| 1990 | #279 | 996 | ▼ down 158 · -59% births |
| 1985 | #121 | 2,413 | ▼ down 72 · -56% births |
| 1980 | #49 | 5,542 | ▼ down 2 |
| 1975 | #47 | 5,553 | — |
The story of Misty
Misty entered American naming records in 1944 and has been in use for over 80 years. Its peak popularity was #40 in 1977. A total of 84,736 babies have received this name. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #5154 in 1945 to #1535 in 2023. Misty is used for both genders: 100% female and 0% male.
Names that peaked alongside Misty in 1977:
Misty by decade
Misty peaked in the 1970s. See all 1970s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1940s | 40 | |
| 1950s | 276 | |
| 1960s | 5,294 | |
| 1970s ★ | 42,513 | |
| 1980s | 29,216 | |
| 1990s | 5,418 | |
| 2000s | 1,425 | |
| 2010s | 517 | |
| 2020s | 108 | |
What are good nicknames for Misty?
What names sound and feel like Misty?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Misty also consider these
How is Misty written in other languages?
Common questions about the name Misty
What does the name Misty mean?
Misty means "a cloudy or foggy time of day" — 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 Misty?
Misty 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 Misty?
Misty 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 Misty?
Misty is a two-syllable name pronounced MIST-ee. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Misty a common or rare name?
Misty is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.