What does Trilby mean and where does it come from?
Trilby gained popularity in the 1890s due to the novel by George du Maurier. The name was used in various adaptations and has historical associations with the arts. It is considered an unusual name that reflects creativity and literary background.
Cultural significance
Trilby has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in United Kingdom-speaking communities, where it reflects values of english.
Peak popularity
Reached #985 in 1895 — currently #839 in the US.
🌿
Related Reading
United Kingdom-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Trilby?
Trilby works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Trilby Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Trilby Rose
Floral · soft ending
Trilby Mae
Sweet · timeless
Trilby Claire
French influence · crisp
Trilby Jane
Literary · strong
Trilby Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Trilby right now?
Holding steady — currently #839 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #839 | 1,361 | ▲ up 5 · +1% births |
| 2022 | #844 | 1,341 | ▲ up 5 · +2% births |
| 2021 | #849 | 1,311 | ▲ up 14175 · +21750% births |
| 2010 | #15024 | 6 | ▼ down 4445 · -14% births |
| 1995 | #10579 | 7 | ▼ down 4208 · -30% births |
| 1980 | #6371 | 10 | ▼ down 790 |
| 1975 | #5581 | 10 | ▲ up 1571 · +67% births |
| 1970 | #7152 | 6 | ▼ down 2602 · -33% births |
| 1965 | #4550 | 9 | ▼ down 307 · -10% births |
| 1960 | #4243 | 10 | ▼ down 985 · -23% births |
| 1955 | #3258 | 13 | ▲ up 1156 · +86% births |
| 1950 | #4414 | 7 | ▼ down 1781 · -36% births |
| 1940 | #2633 | 11 | ▲ up 165 · +10% births |
| 1935 | #2798 | 10 | ▲ up 964 · +43% births |
| 1930 | #3762 | 7 | — |
The story of Trilby
Trilby has been a beloved American name for over 129 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1895. With 567 total births recorded, Trilby remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #985 in 1895 to #839 in 2023.
Names that peaked alongside Trilby in 1895:
Trilby by decade
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1890s | 18 | |
| 1910s | 55 | |
| 1920s ★ | 116 | |
| 1930s | 99 | |
| 1940s | 56 | |
| 1950s | 89 | |
| 1960s | 42 | |
| 1970s | 39 | |
| 1980s | 27 | |
| 1990s | 13 | |
| 2000s | 7 | |
| 2010s | 6 | |
💎Trilby has only 567 total recorded births since 1895 — rarer than 99% of names in our database.
What are good nicknames for Trilby?
What names sound and feel like Trilby?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Trilby also consider these
Common questions about the name Trilby
What does the name Trilby mean?
Trilby means "English" — a name rooted in United Kingdom 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 Trilby?
Trilby is currently ranked #839 as a girl name in the US and is holding steady in popularity, a reliable classic that parents consistently choose.
What is the cultural origin of Trilby?
Trilby originates from United Kingdom tradition. United Kingdom 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 Trilby?
Trilby is a two-syllable name pronounced T R IH1 L B IY0. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Trilby a common or rare name?
Trilby is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.