Tobey

“God is good”

English origin · Unisex name

♂ 69% boys♀ 31% girls

#1094US 2023

1.1kBirths / yr

→Stable

2.4kAll-time births

📅 Since 191400

What does Tobey mean and where does it come from?

Tobey is a variation of the name Toby, which is traditionally male but has become increasingly used for females. Its origin is Hebrew, meaning 'God is good' (יָטַב, Yatab), and signifies blessings or goodness in life. The name gained traction in English-speaking countries, particularly in the 20th c

Cultural significance

Tobey has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in English-speaking communities, where it reflects values of god is good.

Peak popularity

Reached #1763 in 1975 — currently #1094 in the US.

🌿

What middle names flow best with Tobey?

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

Tobey Grace

How popular is Tobey right now?

Holding steady — currently #1094 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names

US Trend 1940–2023#1094 · Top 0.81%

1940

1945

1950

1955

1965

1970

1975

1980

1985

1990

1995

2005

2021

2022

2023

Year	US Rank	Births	vs Prior Year
2023	#1094	1,106	▲ up 5 · +2% births
2022	#1099	1,086	▲ up 5 · +3% births
2021	#1104	1,056	▲ up 15518 · +21020% births
2005	#16622	5	▼ down 5989 · -29% births
1995	#10633	7	▲ up 2515 · +40% births
1990	#13148	5	▼ down 4690 · -29% births
1985	#8458	7	▼ down 3894 · -56% births
1980	#4564	16	▼ down 2801 · -70% births
1975	#1763	53	▲ up 962 · +104% births
1970	#2725	26	▲ up 145 · +37% births
1965	#2870	19	▲ up 1021 · +90% births
1955	#3891	10	▲ up 219 · +25% births
1950	#4110	8	▼ down 573
1945	#3537	8	▲ up 547 · +33% births
1940	#4084	6	—

Name Popularity Timeline

Popularity Statistics for Tobey

Best Year2023Rank #1094

Peak Count1,106

Average Rank#5313

Current Trend↘Falling

Data Range1940 - 202315 years

The story of Tobey

Tobey entered American naming records in 1914 and has been in use for over 110 years. With 2,408 total births recorded, Tobey remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #4084 in 1940 to #1094 in 2023. Tobey is used for both genders: 31% female and 69% male.

Names that peaked alongside Tobey in 1975:

Jennifer Amy Heather Melissa Angela

Tobey by decade

Tobey peaked in the 1970s. See all 1970s names →

Decade	Births
1910s	11
1920s	17
1930s	18
1940s	148
1950s	195
1960s	280
1970s ★	668
1980s	223
1990s	141
2000s	500
2010s	195
2020s	12

💎With 2,408 total births, Tobey is an uncommon but established name.

What are good nicknames for Tobey?

Common

TobTobieToby

What names sound and feel like Tobey?

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

Robey

English · famous, bright, or

Torey

American · A beloved name

Jobey

American · He will be

Tomey

American · English

Hobey

Hebrew · A Hebrew name

Toben

American · Tufted hill

Obey

American · English

Kobey

American · A modern adaptation

Common questions about the name Tobey

What does the name Tobey mean?

Tobey means "God is good" — a name rooted in English 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 Tobey?

Tobey is currently a distinctive and less common name as a baby name in the US and is holding steady in popularity, a reliable classic that parents consistently choose.

What is the cultural origin of Tobey?

Tobey originates from English tradition. English names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.

Is Tobey a common or rare name?

Tobey is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.

Is Tobey more of a girl or boy name?

Tobey is a genuinely unisex name used for both boys and girls. The unisex quality makes it particularly versatile for modern families.