What does Travers mean and where does it come from?
The name 'Travers' has French origins, deriving from the verb 'traverser' which means 'to cross'. Historically, it was used by those who worked near bridges or crossings. It is also a surname, notable in English-speaking countries. The name is particularly famous due to literary references, includin
Cultural significance
Travers has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in France-speaking communities, where it reflects values of to cross.
Peak popularity
Reached #2240 in 1971 — currently #11996 in the US.
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Related Reading
France-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Travers?
Travers works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Travers Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Travers Rose
Floral · soft ending
Travers Mae
Sweet · timeless
Travers Claire
French influence · crisp
Travers Jane
Literary · strong
Travers Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Travers right now?
Rising fast — up 371 spots — currently #11996 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2021 | #11996 | 6 | ▲ up 371 · +20% births |
| 2010 | #12367 | 5 | ▼ down 1882 |
| 2000 | #10485 | 5 | ▼ down 5758 · -55% births |
| 1990 | #4727 | 11 | ▼ down 1074 · -8% births |
| 1985 | #3653 | 12 | ▼ down 1179 · -40% births |
| 1980 | #2474 | 20 | ▲ up 214 · +33% births |
| 1975 | #2688 | 15 | ▲ up 980 · +150% births |
| 1915 | #3668 | 6 | — |
The story of Travers
Travers entered American naming records in 1914 and has been in use for over 110 years. With 389 total births recorded, Travers remains relatively uncommon. Once ranked #3668 in 1915, the name has become less common in recent years, sitting at #11996 in 2021.
Names that peaked alongside Travers in 1971:
Travers by decade
Travers peaked in the 1970s. See all 1970s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1910s | 16 | |
| 1920s | 8 | |
| 1940s | 5 | |
| 1960s | 13 | |
| 1970s ★ | 124 | |
| 1980s | 118 | |
| 1990s | 51 | |
| 2000s | 19 | |
| 2010s | 35 | |
💎Travers has only 389 total recorded births since 1914 — rarer than 99% of names in our database.
What are good nicknames for Travers?
Common
TraTravTravieTravyAvers
What names sound and feel like Travers?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Travers also consider these
Common questions about the name Travers
What does the name Travers mean?
Travers means "To cross" — a name rooted in France 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 Travers?
Travers is currently a distinctive and less common name as a boy name in the US and is holding steady in popularity, a reliable classic that parents consistently choose.
What is the cultural origin of Travers?
Travers originates from France tradition. France 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 Travers?
Travers is a two-syllable name pronounced T R AE1 V ER0 Z. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Travers a common or rare name?
Travers is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.