What does Opie mean and where does it come from?
Opie can serve as a nickname or diminutive form derived from several longer names, such as Ophelia or other names beginning with ‘Op’. The name gained notable popularity through culture, particularly with the character Opie Taylor from the television show 'The Andy Griffith Show'. While primarily us
Cultural significance
Opie has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in American-speaking communities, where it reflects values of a diminutive form of names like ophelia or a surname..
Peak popularity
Reached #1463 in 1889 — currently #978 in the US.
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Related Reading
American-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Opie?
Opie works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Opie Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Opie Rose
Floral · soft ending
Opie Claire
French influence · crisp
Opie Jane
Literary · strong
Opie Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Opie right now?
Holding steady — currently #978 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #978 | 1,222 | ▲ up 5 · +2% births |
| 2022 | #983 | 1,202 | ▲ up 5 · +3% births |
| 2021 | #988 | 1,172 | ▲ up 4074 · +23340% births |
| 1925 | #5062 | 5 | ▼ down 1861 · -37% births |
| 1915 | #3201 | 8 | — |
The story of Opie
Opie has been a beloved American name for over 135 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1889. With 608 total births recorded, Opie remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #3201 in 1915 to #978 in 2023. Opie is used for both genders: 16% female and 84% male.
Names that peaked alongside Opie in 1889:
Opie by decade
Opie peaked in the 1880s. See all 1880s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1880s | 5 | |
| 1900s | 17 | |
| 1910s | 136 | |
| 1920s | 117 | |
| 1930s | 42 | |
| 1940s | 24 | |
| 1950s | 12 | |
| 1960s | 30 | |
| 1970s | 21 | |
| 2010s ★ | 158 | |
| 2020s | 46 | |
💎Opie has only 608 total recorded births since 1889 — rarer than 99% of names in our database.
What are good nicknames for Opie?
What names sound and feel like Opie?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Opie also consider these
Common questions about the name Opie
What does the name Opie mean?
Opie means "A diminutive form of names like Ophelia or a surname." — 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 Opie?
Opie is currently ranked #978 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 Opie?
Opie 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 Opie?
Opie is a two-syllable name pronounced OW1 P IY2. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Opie a common or rare name?
Opie is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.