Slate

“English” — Symbolizes sturdiness and durability

American origin · Boy name

♂ 97% boys♀ 3% girls

#2724US 2023

48Births / yr

↑Rising

642All-time births

📅 Since 199000

How to pronounce Slate

SLAYT

/ˈsleɪt/ · stress on SLAYT · 1 syllable

“English”

Symbolizes sturdiness and durability · American origin

What does Slate mean and where does it come from?

The name Slate is derived from the English word referring to the fine-grained metamorphic rock that splits into thin layers. The name has gained popularity as a given name over the past few decades, especially in the United States. It symbolizes sturdiness and durability. The name conveys a sense of

Cultural significance

Slate has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in American-speaking communities, where it reflects values of english.

Peak popularity

Reached #2366 in 2018 — currently #2724 in the US.

🌿

What middle names flow best with Slate?

Slate works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful

Slate Grace

How popular is Slate right now?

Rising fast — up 228 spots — currently #2724 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names

US Trend 1990–2023#2724 · Top 2.0%

1990

1995

2000

2005

2010

2015

2020

2021

2022

2023

Year	US Rank	Births	vs Prior Year
2023	#2724	48	▲ up 228 · +12% births
2022	#2952	43	▼ down 140 · -4% births
2021	#2812	45	▲ up 122 · +13% births
2020	#2934	40	▲ up 402 · +18% births
2015	#3336	34	▲ up 1852 · +89% births
2010	#5188	18	▼ down 214 · +6% births
2005	#4974	17	▲ up 862 · +42% births
2000	#5836	12	▲ up 2745 · +100% births
1995	#8581	6	▲ up 862 · +20% births
1990	#9443	5	—

Name Popularity Timeline

Popularity Statistics for Slate

Best Year2023Rank #2724

Peak Count48

Average Rank#4878

Current Trend↗Rising

Data Range1990 - 202310 years

The story of Slate

Slate is a relatively modern name, first appearing in US records in 1990. With 642 total births recorded, Slate remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #9443 in 1990 to #2724 in 2023.

Names that peaked alongside Slate in 2018:

Liam Noah William James Oliver

Slate by decade

Slate peaked in the 2010s. See all 2010s names →

Decade	Births
1990s	59
2000s	165
2010s ★	378
2020s	40

💎Slate has only 642 total recorded births since 1990 — rarer than 99% of names in our database.

What are good nicknames for Slate?

Common

SlaSlatSlatieSlaty

What names sound and feel like Slate?

Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Slate also consider these

Slade

American · A beloved name

Clate

American · to be strong

Slater

American · Originally a surname

Tate

American · English

Slayde

American · Variant of the

Nate

American · gift of God

Kate

United Kingdom · pure

Grate

Greek · A Greek name

Common questions about the name Slate

What does the name Slate mean?

Slate means "English" — 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 Slate?

Slate 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 Slate?

Slate 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 Slate?

Slate is a one-syllable name pronounced S L EY1 T. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.

How does Slate sound with different last names?

As a one-syllable name, Slate flows best with last names of two or three syllables. Avoid last names ending in the same sound as Slate ends, as this can create an unwanted rhyme. Test by saying the full name out loud several times.