Starling

“English”

American origin · Unisex name

♂ 85% boys♀ 15% girls

#6459US 2023

14Births / yr

↑Rising

1.1kAll-time births

📅 Since 193000

How to pronounce Starling

STAH·rling

/ˈstɑ.rlɪŋ/ · stress on STAH · 2 syllables

“English”

American origin · Unisex name

What does Starling mean and where does it come from?

Starling is linked to the bird of the same name, which is noted for its ability to mimic sounds and is often seen in large flocks. The name conveys beauty and agility and is often chosen for its naturalistic and appealing qualities. It is relatively rare as a personal name but has seen a rise in pop

Cultural significance

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

Peak popularity

Reached #4075 in 1930 — currently #6459 in the US.

🌿

What middle names flow best with Starling?

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

Starling Grace

How popular is Starling right now?

Rising fast — up 5481 spots — currently #6459 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names

US Trend 1930–2023#6459 · Top 4.8%

1930

1950

1965

1975

2010

2015

2020

2021

2023

Year	US Rank	Births	vs Prior Year
2023	#6459	14	▲ up 5481 · +133% births
2021	#11940	6	▼ down 3602 · -50% births
2020	#8338	12	▲ up 588
2015	#8926	12	▲ up 3363 · +50% births
2010	#12289	8	▼ down 3168 · +60% births
1975	#9121	5	▼ down 2538
1965	#6583	5	▼ down 1250
1950	#5333	5	▼ down 1258 · -17% births
1930	#4075	6	—

Name Popularity Timeline

Popularity Statistics for Starling

Best Year1930Rank #4075

Peak Count14

Average Rank#8118

Current Trend↘Falling

Data Range1930 - 20239 years

The story of Starling

Starling entered American naming records in 1930 and has been in use for over 94 years. With 1,131 total births recorded, Starling remains relatively uncommon. Once ranked #4075 in 1930, the name has become less common in recent years, sitting at #6459 in 2023. Starling is used for both genders: 15% female and 85% male.

Names that peaked alongside Starling in 1930:

Mary Betty Dorothy Helen Margaret

Starling by decade

Starling peaked in the 1930s. See all 1930s names →

Decade	Births
1880s	29
1890s	12
1900s	25
1910s	123
1920s ★	155
1930s	131
1940s	130
1950s	108
1960s	57
1970s	73
1980s	31
1990s	46
2000s	65
2010s	128
2020s	18

💎With 1,131 total births, Starling is an uncommon but established name.

What are good nicknames for Starling?

Common

StaStieStyArling

What names sound and feel like Starling?

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

Sterling

American · Of high quality

Starlin

American · English

Stirling

Scotland · From the stream,

Darling

American · Beloved one; dear

Starlit

American · Illuminated by stars,

Starlie

American · star-like; resembling a

Darwing

American · English

Marking

American · A beloved name

Common questions about the name Starling

What does the name Starling mean?

Starling 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 Starling?

Starling is currently a distinctive and less common name as a baby name in the US and is rapidly gaining popularity — searches for Starling have increased significantly in recent years.

What is the cultural origin of Starling?

Starling 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 Starling?

Starling is a two-syllable name pronounced S T AA1 R L IH0 NG. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.

Is Starling trending right now?

Starling is currently on the rise — it has gained significant momentum in recent years as parents discover its appeal.