What does Napoleon mean and where does it come from?
While traditionally a male name, Napoleon has occasionally been adopted as a female name, especially in modern contexts. It is most famously associated with Napoleon Bonaparte, the French military leader and emperor. The name originates from the Italian name 'Napoleone', derived from the Latin 'Neap
Cultural significance
Napoleon has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in France-speaking communities, where it reflects values of lion of the city.
Peak popularity
Reached #4651 in 2025 — currently #4651 in the US.
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Related Reading
France-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →How else can you spell Napoleon?
Same sound, different look — useful if you want something slightly more distinctive
What middle names flow best with Napoleon?
Napoleon works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Napoleon Jack
One syllable · timeless choice
Napoleon John
One syllable · timeless choice
Napoleon Luke
One syllable · timeless choice
Napoleon Miles
One syllable · vintage charm
Napoleon Beau
One syllable · on the rise
Napoleon Brooks
One syllable · timeless choice
How popular is Napoleon right now?
Rising fast — up 2476 spots — currently #4651 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2025 | #4651 | 22 | ▲ up 2476 · +83% births |
| 2024 | #7127 | 12 | ▼ down 6438 · -99% births |
| 2023 | #689 | 1,511 | ▲ up 5 · +1% births |
| 2022 | #694 | 1,491 | ▲ up 5 · +2% births |
| 2021 | #699 | 1,461 | — |
The story of Napoleon
Napoleon entered American naming records in 1927 and has been in use for over 97 years. With 7,735 total births recorded, Napoleon remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #699 in 2021 to #689 in 2023. Napoleon is used for both genders: 0% female and 100% male.
Names that peaked alongside Napoleon in 2025:
Napoleon by decade
Napoleon peaked in the 2020s. See all 2020s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1880s | 267 | |
| 1890s | 227 | |
| 1900s | 239 | |
| 1910s | 797 | |
| 1920s ★ | 1,041 | |
| 1930s | 798 | |
| 1940s | 701 | |
| 1950s | 900 | |
| 1960s | 795 | |
| 1970s | 526 | |
| 1980s | 531 | |
| 1990s | 388 | |
| 2000s | 311 | |
| 2010s | 202 | |
| 2020s | 46 | |
💎With 7,735 total births, Napoleon is an uncommon but established name.
What are good nicknames for Napoleon?
What names sound and feel like Napoleon?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Napoleon also consider these
How is Napoleon written in other languages?
Common questions about the name Napoleon
What does the name Napoleon mean?
Napoleon means "Lion of the city" — a name rooted in France 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 Napoleon?
Napoleon is currently ranked #689 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 Napoleon?
Napoleon originates from France tradition. France 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 Napoleon?
Napoleon is a four-syllable name pronounced nup-OH-lee-un. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
What sibling names go well with Napoleon?
Napoleon pairs beautifully with sibling names that share a similar France heritage or complement its melodic and flowing sound. Names with a similar vibe create a cohesive sibling set without matching too closely.