What does Pepe mean and where does it come from?
Pepe is a popular diminutive of the name José in Spanish-speaking countries. It also has historical roots in Italy, being a variant of Giuseppe, which is the Italian form of Joseph. The use of Pepe has become widely recognized and often beloved in popular culture, notably because of the cartoon char
Cultural significance
Pepe has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Spain-speaking communities, where it reflects values of the lord will add.
Peak popularity
Reached #2668 in 1962 — currently #1016 in the US.
🌿
Related Reading
Spain-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →How else can you spell Pepe?
Same sound, different look — useful if you want something slightly more distinctive
What middle names flow best with Pepe?
Pepe works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Pepe Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Pepe Rose
Floral · soft ending
Pepe Claire
French influence · crisp
Pepe Jane
Literary · strong
Pepe Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Pepe right now?
Holding steady — currently #1016 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #1016 | 1,184 | ▲ up 5 · +2% births |
| 2022 | #1021 | 1,164 | ▲ up 5 · +3% births |
| 2021 | #1026 | 1,134 | ▲ up 2799 · +12500% births |
| 1975 | #3825 | 9 | ▼ down 572 · -10% births |
| 1970 | #3253 | 10 | ▲ up 742 · +67% births |
| 1960 | #3995 | 6 | — |
The story of Pepe
Pepe entered American naming records in 1957 and has been in use for over 67 years. With 155 total births recorded, Pepe remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #3995 in 1960 to #1016 in 2023.
Names that peaked alongside Pepe in 1962:
Pepe by decade
Pepe peaked in the 1960s. See all 1960s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1950s | 11 | |
| 1960s | 55 | |
| 1970s ★ | 63 | |
| 1980s | 8 | |
| 1990s | 7 | |
| 2000s | 11 | |
💎Pepe has only 155 total recorded births since 1957 — rarer than 99% of names in our database.
What are good nicknames for Pepe?
CROATIAN
FinkaInaJosipaJozefinaJožica
What names sound and feel like Pepe?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Pepe also consider these
How is Pepe written in other languages?
What are the girl versions of Pepe?
Common questions about the name Pepe
What does the name Pepe mean?
Pepe means "The Lord will add" — a name rooted in Spain 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 Pepe?
Pepe is currently a distinctive and less common name as a boy name in the US and is holding steady in popularity, a reliable classic that parents consistently choose.
What is the cultural origin of Pepe?
Pepe originates from Spain tradition. Spain 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 Pepe?
Pepe is a two-syllable name pronounced P EH1 P IY0. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Pepe a common or rare name?
Pepe is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.