What does Troy mean and where does it come from?
Troy is traditionally known as a male name but has also become increasingly popular as a female name in modern times. Its association with the legendary city from Homer's 'Iliad' adds historical significance. The name reflects qualities of endurance and bravery. It has been used since the late 20th
Cultural significance
Troy has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in English-speaking communities, where it reflects values of english.
Peak popularity
Reached #993 in 1961 — currently #461 in the US.
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Related Reading
English-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Troy?
Troy works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Troy Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Troy Rose
Floral · soft ending
Troy Claire
French influence · crisp
Troy Jane
Literary · strong
Troy Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Troy right now?
Rising — up 11 spots — currently #461 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #461 | 664 | ▲ up 11 · +2% births |
| 2022 | #472 | 650 | ▼ down 54 · -12% births |
| 2021 | #418 | 737 | ▲ up 9770 · +8089% births |
| 2020 | #10188 | 9 | ▲ up 1649 · +13% births |
| 2015 | #11837 | 8 | ▲ up 451 |
| 2010 | #12288 | 8 | ▲ up 4204 · +60% births |
| 2005 | #16492 | 5 | ▼ down 7943 · -55% births |
| 2000 | #8549 | 11 | ▼ down 4442 · -56% births |
| 1995 | #4107 | 25 | ▲ up 3796 · +150% births |
| 1990 | #7903 | 10 | ▼ down 4168 · -55% births |
| 1985 | #3735 | 22 | ▼ down 1575 · -53% births |
| 1980 | #2160 | 47 | ▲ up 10 · +21% births |
| 1975 | #2170 | 39 | ▼ down 987 · -60% births |
| 1970 | #1183 | 97 | ▲ up 265 · +67% births |
| 1965 | #1448 | 58 | — |
The story of Troy
Troy has been a beloved American name for over 128 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1896. More than 215,746 babies have been named Troy since 1896. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #1961 in 1905 to #461 in 2023. Troy is used for both genders: 1% female and 99% male.
Names that peaked alongside Troy in 1961:
Troy by decade
Troy peaked in the 1960s. See all 1960s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1880s | 139 | |
| 1890s | 304 | |
| 1900s | 652 | |
| 1910s | 3,229 | |
| 1920s | 5,443 | |
| 1930s | 5,509 | |
| 1940s | 6,309 | |
| 1950s | 7,455 | |
| 1960s ★ | 62,235 | |
| 1970s | 49,307 | |
| 1980s | 24,775 | |
| 1990s | 22,990 | |
| 2000s | 14,823 | |
| 2010s | 11,858 | |
| 2020s | 718 | |
What are good nicknames for Troy?
What names sound and feel like Troy?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Troy also consider these
Common questions about the name Troy
What does the name Troy mean?
Troy means "English" — 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 Troy?
Troy is currently ranked #461 in the United States as a baby 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 Troy?
Troy 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.
How do you pronounce the name Troy?
Troy is a one-syllable name pronounced T R OY1. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
How does Troy sound with different last names?
As a one-syllable name, Troy flows best with last names of two or three syllables. Avoid last names ending in the same sound as Troy ends, as this can create an unwanted rhyme. Test by saying the full name out loud several times.