“A spice derived from the pepper plant.” — Associated with liveliness and zest
American origin · Unisex name
♂ 8% boys♀ 92% girls
#1630US 2023
128Births / yr
↓Falling
2.9kAll-time births
📅 Since 194700.01% of births at peak
How to pronounce Pepper
PEP·er
/ˈpɛp.ɝ/ · stress on PEP · 2 syllables
“A spice derived from the pepper plant.”
Associated with liveliness and zest · American origin
What does Pepper mean and where does it come from?
The name Pepper is of English origin and is often used for girls. It evokes the spicy herb and has gained popularity in the contemporary naming context. It is associated with liveliness and zest. Historically, the name Pepper has been used as a surname and is also more commonly known as a nickname.
Cultural significance
Pepper has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in American-speaking communities, where it reflects values of a spice derived from the pepper plant..
Falling — down 193 spots — currently #1630 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
US Trend 1955–2023#1630 · Top 1.2%
1965
1970
1975
1980
1985
1990
1995
2000
2005
2010
2015
2020
2021
2022
2023
Year
US Rank
Births
vs Prior Year
2023
#1630
128
▼ down 193 · -18% births
2022
#1437
156
▼ down 36
2021
#1401
156
▲ up 187 · +19% births
2020
#1588
131
▼ down 84 · -13% births
2015
#1504
151
▲ up 525 · +54% births
2010
#2029
98
▲ up 4838 · +476% births
2005
#6867
17
▲ up 5110 · +143% births
2000
#11977
7
▲ up 36 · +17% births
1995
#12013
6
▲ up 1273 · +20% births
1990
#13286
5
▼ down 7146 · -55% births
1985
#6140
11
▼ down 3467 · -69% births
1980
#2673
35
▼ down 1718 · -73% births
1975
#955
132
▲ up 2989 · +780% births
1970
#3944
15
▼ down 608
1965
#3336
15
—
Name Popularity Timeline
Popularity Statistics for Pepper
1975Rank #955
156
#4753
↗Rising
1955 - 202317 years
The story of Pepper
Pepper entered American naming records in 1947 and has been in use for over 77 years. With 2,858 total births recorded, Pepper remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #5021 in 1955 to #1630 in 2023. Pepper is used for both genders: 92% female and 8% male.
Pepper means "A spice derived from the pepper plant." — 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 Pepper?
Pepper is currently a distinctive and less common name as a baby 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 Pepper?
Pepper 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 Pepper?
Pepper is a two-syllable name pronounced P EH1 P ER0. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Pepper a common or rare name?
Pepper is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.
Sibling names that pair with Pepper
For a sister
Pepper & Weston♡
Pepper & Austin♡
Pepper & Summer♡
Pepper & Ashton♡
For a brother
Pepper & Matthew♡
Pepper & Wesley♡
Pepper & Weston♡
Pepper & Austin♡
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Worldwide ranking · 2023
Country
Rank
🇺🇸 USA
#1630
🇬🇧 UK
—
🇨🇦 Canada
—
🇦🇺 Australia
—
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