What does Park mean and where does it come from?
In Korea, Park (박) is a common surname. It is derived from the Chinese character 朴, meaning 'plain' or 'honest.' The name became popular in the Silla Dynasty. In the U.S., it is often used as a given name, especially among those of Korean descent. Notable individuals with this name include Park Geun
Cultural significance
Park has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Korea-speaking communities, where it reflects values of a surname meaning 'ba,n'..
Peak popularity
Reached #619 in 1896 — currently #8741 in the US.
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Related Reading
Korea-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →How else can you spell Park?
Same sound, different look — useful if you want something slightly more distinctive
What middle names flow best with Park?
Park works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Park Jack
One syllable · timeless choice
Park John
One syllable · timeless choice
Park Luke
One syllable · timeless choice
Park Miles
One syllable · vintage charm
Park Beau
One syllable · on the rise
Park Brooks
One syllable · timeless choice
How popular is Park right now?
Rising fast — up 4992 spots — currently #8741 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2025 | #8741 | 9 | ▲ up 4992 · +80% births |
| 2024 | #13733 | 5 | ▼ down 90 |
| 2023 | #13643 | 5 | ▼ down 6033 · -55% births |
| 2022 | #7610 | 11 | ▲ up 1852 · +38% births |
| 2021 | #9462 | 8 | ▼ down 2475 · -27% births |
| 2020 | #6987 | 11 | ▼ down 667 · -15% births |
| 2015 | #6320 | 13 | ▲ up 2483 · +63% births |
| 2010 | #8803 | 8 | ▲ up 1363 · +33% births |
| 2005 | #10166 | 6 | ▼ down 3311 · -33% births |
| 2000 | #6855 | 9 | ▲ up 2033 · +80% births |
| 1995 | #8888 | 5 | ▼ down 745 |
| 1990 | #8143 | 5 | ▼ down 1860 |
| 1980 | #6283 | 5 | ▼ down 2323 · -37% births |
| 1975 | #3960 | 8 | ▼ down 1050 · -27% births |
| 1970 | #2910 | 11 | — |
The story of Park
Park has been a beloved American name for over 144 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1880. With 1,599 total births recorded, Park remains relatively uncommon. Once ranked #676 in 1880, the name has become less common in recent years, sitting at #13643 in 2023.
Names that peaked alongside Park in 1896:
Park by decade
Park peaked in the 1890s. See all 1890s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1880s | 55 | |
| 1890s | 79 | |
| 1900s | 59 | |
| 1910s | 219 | |
| 1920s ★ | 222 | |
| 1930s | 158 | |
| 1940s | 160 | |
| 1950s | 147 | |
| 1960s | 123 | |
| 1970s | 55 | |
| 1980s | 44 | |
| 1990s | 74 | |
| 2000s | 82 | |
| 2010s | 111 | |
| 2020s | 25 | |
💎With 1,599 total births, Park is an uncommon but established name.
What are good nicknames for Park?
What names sound and feel like Park?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Park also consider these
Common questions about the name Park
What does the name Park mean?
Park means "A surname meaning 'ba,n'." — a name rooted in Korea 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 Park?
Park is currently a distinctive and less common name as a boy name in the US and is becoming rarer and more distinctive, making it a unique choice that stands out.
What is the cultural origin of Park?
Park originates from Korea tradition. Korea 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 Park?
Park is a one-syllable name pronounced PAHRK. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
How does Park sound with different last names?
As a one-syllable name, Park flows best with last names of two or three syllables. Avoid last names ending in the same sound as Park ends, as this can create an unwanted rhyme. Test by saying the full name out loud several times.