“White man.” — Associated with the American poet Walt Whitman
American origin · Boy name
♂ 97% boys♀ 3% girls
#3991US 2023
28Births / yr
↑Rising
762All-time births
📅 Since 190900
How to pronounce Whitman
HWITM·un
/ˈhwɪtm.ən/ · stress on HWITM · 2 syllables
“White man.”
Associated with the American poet Walt Whitman · American origin
What does Whitman mean and where does it come from?
The name Whitman derives from Old English, where 'hwita' means 'white' and 'mann' means 'man'. This surname-turned-first name is especially associated with the American poet Walt Whitman, a pivotal figure in American literature from the 19th century, known for his work 'Leaves of Grass'. Whitman con
Cultural significance
Whitman has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in American-speaking communities, where it reflects values of white man..
Peak popularity
Reached #1678 in 1909 — currently #3991 in the US.
Rising fast — up 188 spots — currently #3991 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
US Trend 1915–2023#3991 · Top 2.9%
1920
1940
1950
1965
1970
1980
1990
2000
2005
2010
2015
2020
2021
2022
2023
Year
US Rank
Births
vs Prior Year
2023
#3991
28
▲ up 188 · +8% births
2022
#4179
26
▲ up 51 · +4% births
2021
#4230
25
▼ down 602 · -14% births
2020
#3628
29
▼ down 109 · -6% births
2015
#3519
31
▲ up 589 · +29% births
2010
#4108
24
▲ up 2565 · +118% births
2005
#6673
11
▼ down 2077 · -31% births
2000
#4596
16
▲ up 439 · +60% births
1990
#5035
10
▲ up 606 · +67% births
1980
#5641
6
▼ down 1297
1970
#4344
6
▼ down 293 · +20% births
1965
#4051
5
▼ down 919 · -29% births
1950
#3132
7
▼ down 172
1940
#2960
7
▼ down 109 · -30% births
1920
#2851
10
—
Name Popularity Timeline
Popularity Statistics for Whitman
1920Rank #2851
31
#4154
↘Falling
1915 - 202316 years
The story of Whitman
Whitman entered American naming records in 1909 and has been in use for over 115 years. With 762 total births recorded, Whitman remains relatively uncommon. Once ranked #3522 in 1915, the name has become less common in recent years, sitting at #3991 in 2023.
Whitman means "White man." — a name rooted in American 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 Whitman?
Whitman is currently a distinctive and less common name as a boy 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 Whitman?
Whitman originates from American tradition. American 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 Whitman?
Whitman is a two-syllable name pronounced HH W IH1 T M AH0 N. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Whitman a common or rare name?
Whitman is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.
Sibling names that pair with Whitman
For a sister
Whitman & Hazel♡
Whitman & Grant♡
Whitman & King♡
Whitman & Zane♡
For a brother
Whitman & Everett♡
Whitman & Grant♡
Whitman & King♡
Whitman & Zane♡
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Worldwide ranking · 2023
Country
Rank
🇺🇸 USA
#3991
🇬🇧 UK
—
🇨🇦 Canada
—
🇦🇺 Australia
—
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