Norris

“from the North”

American origin · Unisex name

♂ 97% boys♀ 3% girls

#983US 2023

1.2kBirths / yr

→Stable

16.9kAll-time births

📅 Since 190200

How to pronounce Norris

NAW·ris

/ˈnɔ.rɪs/ · stress on NAW · 2 syllables

“from the North”

American origin · Unisex name

What does Norris mean and where does it come from?

Norris is primarily a surname that has evolved into a given name, especially for females in the modern era. It is derived from the Old French 'norois,' which means 'from the North'. The name was first recorded as a surname in the 12th century. It gained popularity as a first name in the 20th century

Cultural significance

Norris has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in American-speaking communities, where it reflects values of english.

Peak popularity

Reached #1619 in 1933 — currently #983 in the US.

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What middle names flow best with Norris?

Norris works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful

Norris Grace

How popular is Norris right now?

Holding steady — currently #983 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names

US Trend 1910–2023#983 · Top 0.73%

1920

1925

1930

1935

1940

1945

1950

1955

1960

1965

1970

1985

2021

2022

2023

Year	US Rank	Births	vs Prior Year
2023	#983	1,217	▲ up 5 · +2% births
2022	#988	1,197	▲ up 5 · +3% births
2021	#993	1,167	▲ up 9716 · +23240% births
1985	#10709	5	▼ down 2669
1970	#8040	5	▼ down 3187 · -37% births
1965	#4853	8	▲ up 343 · +14% births
1960	#5196	7	▼ down 428
1955	#4768	7	▼ down 777 · -12% births
1950	#3991	8	▼ down 1519 · -38% births
1945	#2472	13	▲ up 126 · +18% births
1940	#2598	11	▲ up 156 · +10% births
1935	#2754	10	▼ down 304 · -23% births
1930	#2450	13	▲ up 693 · +30% births
1925	#3143	10	▲ up 1274 · +67% births
1920	#4417	6	—

Name Popularity Timeline

Popularity Statistics for Norris

Best Year2023Rank #983

Peak Count1,217

Average Rank#3719

Current Trend↘Falling

Data Range1910 - 202317 years

The story of Norris

Norris entered American naming records in 1902 and has been in use for over 122 years. A total of 16,886 babies have received this name. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #1959 in 1910 to #983 in 2023. Norris is used for both genders: 3% female and 97% male.

Names that peaked alongside Norris in 1933:

Mary Betty Barbara Dorothy Joan

Norris by decade

Norris peaked in the 1930s. See all 1930s names →

Decade	Births
1880s	120
1890s	146
1900s	238
1910s	1,526
1920s ★	2,709
1930s	2,560
1940s	2,378
1950s	2,698
1960s	1,733
1970s	969
1980s	760
1990s	500
2000s	283
2010s	247
2020s	19

What are good nicknames for Norris?

Common

NorNoOrris

What names sound and feel like Norris?

Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Norris also consider these

Noris

Spain · of the North

Norkis

English · A meaningful name

American · The name Corris

Common questions about the name Norris

What does the name Norris mean?

Norris means "English" — 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 Norris?

Norris is currently ranked #983 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 Norris?

Norris 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 Norris?

Norris is a two-syllable name pronounced N AO1 R IH0 S. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.

Is Norris a common or rare name?

Norris is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.