What does Taft mean and where does it come from?
The name Taft has origins in Old English, derived from a surname meaning 'soft place' or 'softened by a stream'. It is also known due to its association with William Howard Taft, the 27th President of the United States, which gives it historical significance. While the name is not exceedingly common
Cultural significance
Taft has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in American-speaking communities, where it reflects values of to be softened by a stream.
Peak popularity
Reached #273 in 1908 — currently #8183 in the US.
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Related Reading
American-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Taft?
Taft works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Taft Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Taft Rose
Floral · soft ending
Taft Claire
French influence · crisp
Taft Jane
Literary · strong
Taft Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Taft right now?
Rising fast — up 2531 spots — currently #8183 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #8183 | 10 | ▲ up 2531 · +43% births |
| 2022 | #10714 | 7 | ▼ down 5629 · -63% births |
| 2021 | #5085 | 19 | ▲ up 578 · +27% births |
| 2020 | #5663 | 15 | ▼ down 1116 · -29% births |
| 2015 | #4547 | 21 | ▲ up 312 · +11% births |
| 2010 | #4859 | 19 | ▲ up 1389 · +58% births |
| 2005 | #6248 | 12 | ▲ up 108 · +20% births |
| 2000 | #6356 | 10 | ▲ up 1514 · +67% births |
| 1995 | #7870 | 6 | ▼ down 3428 · -50% births |
| 1990 | #4442 | 12 | ▲ up 793 · +71% births |
| 1985 | #5235 | 7 | ▲ up 1143 · +40% births |
| 1980 | #6378 | 5 | ▼ down 3807 · -69% births |
| 1975 | #2571 | 16 | ▲ up 1033 · +100% births |
| 1970 | #3604 | 8 | ▼ down 1198 · -33% births |
| 1965 | #2406 | 12 | — |
The story of Taft
Taft entered American naming records in 1907 and has been in use for over 117 years. With 1,490 total births recorded, Taft remains relatively uncommon. Once ranked #395 in 1910, the name has become less common in recent years, sitting at #8183 in 2023.
Names that peaked alongside Taft in 1908:
Taft by decade
Taft peaked in the 1900s. See all 1900s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1900s | 130 | |
| 1910s ★ | 192 | |
| 1920s | 74 | |
| 1930s | 155 | |
| 1940s | 152 | |
| 1950s | 131 | |
| 1960s | 126 | |
| 1970s | 97 | |
| 1980s | 89 | |
| 1990s | 75 | |
| 2000s | 93 | |
| 2010s | 161 | |
| 2020s | 15 | |
💎With 1,490 total births, Taft is an uncommon but established name.
What are good nicknames for Taft?
What names sound and feel like Taft?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Taft also consider these
Common questions about the name Taft
What does the name Taft mean?
Taft means "To be softened by a stream" — 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 Taft?
Taft 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 Taft?
Taft 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 Taft?
Taft is a one-syllable name pronounced T AE1 F T. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
How does Taft sound with different last names?
As a one-syllable name, Taft flows best with last names of two or three syllables. Avoid last names ending in the same sound as Taft ends, as this can create an unwanted rhyme. Test by saying the full name out loud several times.