Smith

“Blacksmith” — Associated with blacksmithing

American origin · Unisex name

♂ 97% boys♀ 3% girls

#1555US 2023

113Births / yr

↑Rising

5kAll-time births

📅 Since 197200

How to pronounce Smith

SMEYETH

/ˈsmaɪθ/ · stress on SMEYETH · 1 syllable

“Blacksmith”

Associated with blacksmithing · American origin

What does Smith mean and where does it come from?

Smith is traditionally a surname of English origin, now sometimes used as a given name for females as well. It derives from the Old English 'smitan' meaning 'to smite or hit', historically associated with blacksmithing. The name is exceedingly common as a surname, especially in English-speaking coun

Cultural significance

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

Peak popularity

Reached #7049 in 2018 — currently #1555 in the US.

🌿

How else can you spell Smith?

Same sound, different look — useful if you want something slightly more distinctive

Smyth

Spelling variant

What middle names flow best with Smith?

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

Smith Grace

How popular is Smith right now?

Rising — up 29 spots — currently #1555 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names

US Trend 1985–2023#1555 · Top 1.1%

1985

2005

2015

2020

2021

2022

2023

Year	US Rank	Births	vs Prior Year
2023	#1555	113	▲ up 29 · +1% births
2022	#1584	112	▼ down 265 · -21% births
2021	#1319	142	▲ up 10737 · +1929% births
2020	#12056	7	▼ down 2571 · -36% births
2015	#9485	11	▲ up 7002 · +120% births
2005	#16487	5	▼ down 7143 · -17% births
1985	#9344	6	—

Name Popularity Timeline

Popularity Statistics for Smith

Best Year2021Rank #1319

Peak Count142

Average Rank#7404

Current Trend↗Rising

Data Range1985 - 20237 years

The story of Smith

Smith is a relatively modern name, first appearing in US records in 1972. With 5,019 total births recorded, Smith remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #9344 in 1985 to #1555 in 2023. Smith is used for both genders: 3% female and 97% male.

Names that peaked alongside Smith in 2018:

Emma Olivia Ava Isabella Sophia

Smith by decade

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

Decade	Births
1880s	181
1890s	143
1900s	168
1910s	481
1920s	559
1930s	376
1940s	277
1950s	198
1960s	164
1970s	137
1980s	239
1990s	209
2000s	413
2010s ★	1,346
2020s	128

💎With 5,019 total births, Smith is an uncommon but established name.

What are good nicknames for Smith?

Common

SmiSmieSmy

What names sound and feel like Smith?

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

Smithy

American · One who works

Smit

Dutch · smith

Smitty

American · Blacksmith; metal worker

English · A meaningful name

Brith

Celtic · A Celtic name

Smyth

Ireland · blacksmith

Common questions about the name Smith

What does the name Smith mean?

Smith means "Blacksmith" — 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 Smith?

Smith 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 Smith?

Smith 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 Smith?

Smith is a one-syllable name pronounced S M AY1 TH. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.

How does Smith sound with different last names?

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