📅 Since 1880🏆 32 years in top 1000.78% of births at peak
How to pronounce Oliver
AH·luv·er
/ˈɑ.ləv.ɝ/ · stress on AH · 3 syllables
“olive tree”
Symbol of peace and reconciliation · American origin
What does Oliver mean and where does it come from?
Historically a male name, Oliver has recently been adopted by some as a female name in modern contexts. The name derives from the Latin 'olivarius', meaning 'olive tree', a symbol of peace and reconciliation. It has been prevalent in England and gained significant popularity in the 19th and early 20
Cultural significance
Oliver has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in American-speaking communities, where it reflects values of olive tree.
Holding steady — currently #3 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
US Trend 1880–2023#3 · Top 0.01%
1965
1970
1975
1980
1985
1990
1995
2000
2005
2010
2015
2020
2021
2022
2023
Year
US Rank
Births
vs Prior Year
2023
#3
14,782
stable · -2% births
2022
#3
15,161
stable · +3% births
2021
#3
14,707
stable · +4% births
2020
#3
14,147
▲ up 16 · +21% births
2015
#19
11,655
▲ up 69 · +150% births
2010
#88
4,663
▲ up 121 · +160% births
2005
#209
1,793
▲ up 96 · +83% births
2000
#305
978
▲ up 88 · +64% births
1995
#393
596
▼ down 21 · -5% births
1990
#372
625
▲ up 71 · +69% births
1985
#443
370
▼ down 31 · -6% births
1980
#412
394
▼ down 4 · +11% births
1975
#408
356
▲ up 20 · -3% births
1970
#428
367
▲ up 17 · +22% births
1965
#445
302
—
Name Popularity Timeline
Popularity Statistics for Oliver
2020Rank #3
15,161
#217
↗Rising
1900 - 202328 years
The story of Oliver
Oliver has been a beloved American name for over 144 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1880. It peaked at #3 in 2019, placing it among the top 10 most popular names. More than 195,115 babies have been named Oliver since 1880. Oliver shows a classic revival pattern — popular in the 1880s, declining mid-century, then surging back in recent decades. Oliver is used for both genders: 0% female and 100% male.
Oliver means "olive tree" — 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 Oliver?
Oliver is currently ranked #3 in the United States 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 Oliver?
Oliver 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 Oliver?
Oliver is a three-syllable name pronounced AA1 L AH0 V ER0. 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 Oliver?
Oliver pairs beautifully with sibling names that share a similar American heritage or complement its melodic and flowing sound. Names with a similar vibe create a cohesive sibling set without matching too closely.
Sibling names that pair with Oliver
For a sister
Oliver & Avery♡
Oliver & Madison♡
Oliver & Ivy♡
Oliver & Willow♡
For a brother
Oliver & Elijah♡
Oliver & Hudson♡
Oliver & Ethan♡
Oliver & Jackson♡
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Worldwide ranking · 2023
Country
Rank
🇺🇸 USA
#3
🇬🇧 UK
—
🇨🇦 Canada
—
🇦🇺 Australia
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