What does Vaughan mean and where does it come from?
Traditionally a male name, Vaughan has also started being adopted for females, especially in more modern contexts. Its roots are Welsh, where it translates to 'little' or 'small'. This name was previously more prevalent as a surname in Wales. The evolution of Vaughan into a unisex name reflects chan
Cultural significance
Vaughan has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Welsh-speaking communities, where it reflects values of little.
Peak popularity
Reached #4508 in 1939 — currently #650 in the US.
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Related Reading
Welsh-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Vaughan?
Vaughan works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Vaughan Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Vaughan Rose
Floral · soft ending
Vaughan Mae
Sweet · timeless
Vaughan Claire
French influence · crisp
Vaughan Jane
Literary · strong
Vaughan Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Vaughan right now?
Holding steady — currently #650 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #650 | 1,550 | ▲ up 5 · +1% births |
| 2022 | #655 | 1,530 | ▲ up 5 · +2% births |
| 2021 | #660 | 1,500 | ▲ up 12860 · +21329% births |
| 2010 | #13520 | 7 | — |
The story of Vaughan
Vaughan entered American naming records in 1939 and has been in use for over 85 years. With 1,593 total births recorded, Vaughan remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #13520 in 2010 to #650 in 2023. Vaughan is used for both genders: 1% female and 99% male.
Names that peaked alongside Vaughan in 1939:
Vaughan by decade
Vaughan peaked in the 1930s. See all 1930s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1910s | 117 | |
| 1920s | 136 | |
| 1930s | 100 | |
| 1940s | 164 | |
| 1950s | 158 | |
| 1960s | 144 | |
| 1970s | 108 | |
| 1980s | 98 | |
| 1990s | 176 | |
| 2000s | 191 | |
| 2010s ★ | 192 | |
| 2020s | 9 | |
💎With 1,593 total births, Vaughan is an uncommon but established name.
What are good nicknames for Vaughan?
What names sound and feel like Vaughan?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Vaughan also consider these
How is Vaughan written in other languages?
Common questions about the name Vaughan
What does the name Vaughan mean?
Vaughan means "little" — a name rooted in Welsh 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 Vaughan?
Vaughan is currently ranked #650 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 Vaughan?
Vaughan originates from Welsh tradition. Welsh names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
Is Vaughan more of a girl or boy name?
Vaughan is a genuinely unisex name used for both boys and girls. The unisex quality makes it particularly versatile for modern families.
What are good nicknames for Vaughan?
Vaughan naturally lends itself to affectionate nicknames. Shortened versions based on the first syllable are most popular, and many parents also create unique pet names that feel personal to their family.