“Referring to the small flowerless plants that grow in damp environments.” — Symbolize growth
English origin · Boy name
♂ 97% boys♀ 3% girls
#5000US 2023
20Births / yr
↑Rising
434All-time births
📅 Since 189100.01% of births at peak
How to pronounce Moss
MAWS
/ˈmɔs/ · stress on MAWS · 1 syllable
“Referring to the small flowerless plants that grow in damp environments.”
Symbolize growth · English origin
What does Moss mean and where does it come from?
Moss is a nature-inspired name that evokes the image of the soft green plants found in shaded areas. It can symbolize growth, tranquility, and a connection to nature. While Moss is rarely used as a first name, it has been increasingly embraced in modern naming trends as a surname-turned-first name,
Cultural significance
Moss has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in English-speaking communities, where it reflects values of referring to the small flowerless plants that grow in damp environments..
Peak popularity
Reached #1044 in 1901 — currently #5000 in the US.
Rising fast — up 566 spots — currently #5000 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
US Trend 1915–2023#5000 · Top 3.7%
1930
1935
1940
1945
1950
1955
1965
1975
2005
2010
2015
2020
2021
2022
2023
Year
US Rank
Births
vs Prior Year
2023
#5000
20
▲ up 566 · +18% births
2022
#5566
17
▲ up 664 · +21% births
2021
#6230
14
▲ up 1221 · +40% births
2020
#7451
10
▲ up 2144 · +43% births
2015
#9595
7
▼ down 1426 · -22% births
2010
#8169
9
▲ up 987 · +29% births
2005
#9156
7
▼ down 4287 · +17% births
1975
#4869
6
▼ down 865 · +20% births
1965
#4004
5
▼ down 1193 · -44% births
1955
#2811
9
▲ up 964 · +80% births
1950
#3775
5
▼ down 343
1945
#3432
5
▼ down 219 · -17% births
1940
#3213
6
▲ up 516 · +20% births
1935
#3729
5
▼ down 879 · -44% births
1930
#2850
9
—
Name Popularity Timeline
Popularity Statistics for Moss
1915Rank #2363
20
#5028
↘Falling
1915 - 202317 years
The story of Moss
Moss has been a beloved American name for over 133 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1891. With 434 total births recorded, Moss remains relatively uncommon. Once ranked #2363 in 1915, the name has become less common in recent years, sitting at #5000 in 2023.
Moss means "Referring to the small flowerless plants that grow in damp environments." — 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 Moss?
Moss is currently a distinctive and less common name as a boy name in the US and is rapidly gaining popularity — searches for Moss have increased significantly in recent years.
What is the cultural origin of Moss?
Moss 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 Moss?
Moss is a one-syllable name pronounced M AO1 S. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
How does Moss sound with different last names?
As a one-syllable name, Moss flows best with last names of two or three syllables. Avoid last names ending in the same sound as Moss ends, as this can create an unwanted rhyme. Test by saying the full name out loud several times.
Sibling names that pair with Moss
For a sister
Moss & Ruby♡
Moss & Hallie♡
Moss & Annie♡
Moss & Prince♡
For a brother
Moss & Hallie♡
Moss & Annie♡
Moss & Prince♡
Moss & Rosie♡
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