What does Onyx mean and where does it come from?
Onyx is a name derived from the gemstone, known for its black color and layers of white bands. The name symbolizes strength and protection due to the properties attributed to the onyx stone. It has gained popularity as a modern name in the United States, often used for both sexes but increasingly fo
Cultural significance
Onyx has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in American-speaking communities, where it reflects values of a gemstone; a type of quartz.
Peak popularity
Reached #1248 in 2024 — currently #1410 in the US.
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Related Reading
American-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →How else can you spell Onyx?
Same sound, different look — useful if you want something slightly more distinctive
What middle names flow best with Onyx?
Onyx works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Onyx Jack
One syllable · timeless choice
Onyx John
One syllable · timeless choice
Onyx Luke
One syllable · timeless choice
Onyx Grace
One syllable · timeless choice
Onyx Miles
One syllable · vintage charm
Onyx Leah
One syllable · timeless choice
How popular is Onyx right now?
Falling — down 162 spots — currently #1410 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2025 | #1410 | 155 | ▼ down 162 · -17% births |
| 2024 | #1248 | 187 | ▼ down 941 · -83% births |
| 2023 | #307 | 1,077 | ▲ up 46 · +16% births |
| 2022 | #353 | 932 | ▲ up 52 · +22% births |
| 2021 | #405 | 767 | ▲ up 1355 · +585% births |
| 2020 | #1760 | 112 | ▲ up 2160 · +195% births |
| 2015 | #3920 | 38 | ▲ up 2087 · +73% births |
| 2010 | #6007 | 22 | ▲ up 2938 · +83% births |
| 2005 | #8945 | 12 | ▼ down 847 |
| 2000 | #8098 | 12 | ▼ down 1785 · -14% births |
| 1995 | #6313 | 14 | ▲ up 2297 · +56% births |
| 1990 | #8610 | 9 | ▲ up 2310 · +80% births |
| 1985 | #10920 | 5 | — |
The story of Onyx
Onyx entered American naming records in 1918 and has been in use for over 106 years. With 3,128 total births recorded, Onyx remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #10920 in 1985 to #307 in 2023. Onyx is used for both genders: 29% female and 71% male.
Names that peaked alongside Onyx in 2024:
Onyx by decade
Onyx peaked in the 2020s. See all 2020s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1910s | 5 | |
| 1980s | 13 | |
| 1990s | 219 | |
| 2000s | 437 | |
| 2010s ★ | 1,900 | |
| 2020s | 2,708 | |
💎With 3,128 total births, Onyx is an uncommon but established name.
What names sound and feel like Onyx?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Onyx also consider these
Common questions about the name Onyx
What does the name Onyx mean?
Onyx means "A gemstone; a type of quartz" — 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 Onyx?
Onyx is currently ranked #307 in the United States as a baby name in the US and is rapidly gaining popularity — searches for Onyx have increased significantly in recent years.
What is the cultural origin of Onyx?
Onyx 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 Onyx?
Onyx is a two-syllable name pronounced AH-niks. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Onyx trending right now?
Onyx is currently on the rise — it has gained significant momentum in recent years as parents discover its appeal.