MallowbyNames

Abba

AB-uh · Father; of uncertain origin, possibly derived from Aramaic or Hebrew 'abba' meaning father.

2025 rank (boys)
#7,194
Babies named in 2025
11
Peak popularity
2025
2025 frequency
1 in 155,280 boys
Usually for
Boys
Trend
Rising since 2011

Rising since 2011, #7,194 for boys today.

Popularity of Abba since 1924

Babies named Abba per year in U.S. Social Security records.

471119602000Most births 2024GirlsBoys
GirlsBoys
Data table (by decade)
DecadeGirlsBoys
1920s60
1930s00
1940s00
1950s00
1960s00
1970s00
1980s00
1990s06
2000s06
2010s040
2020s1039

Meaning & origin

Abba is an exceptionally rare name in the United States, first recorded in Social Security data in 1999. As of 2025, its peak year, the name ranked 7,194th nationally with a frequency of just 1-in-155,280. Its recent trajectory has been rising since 2011, though from an extremely low base. The name is most common in New York, reflecting its use within Jewish and Christian communities where the Aramaic term for 'father' carries religious significance. Despite its ancient roots, Abba remains a distinctive choice, likely influenced by cultural or family traditions rather than mainstream popularity.

The name Abba originates from the Aramaic word for 'father,' which also appears in Hebrew. In the New Testament, 'Abba' is used as a term of endearment for God. It has been used as a given name primarily in Jewish and Christian communities, though it remains rare in modern times.

Where Abba is most popular

Births per 100,000 boys by state, 2025. The lightest shade means too few recorded births.

Sibling names for Abba

Names that share Abba's style, for a brother or sister.

A parent animal hugging its little one, the personalized name page

A is for Abba, our favorite little boy.

A is for Abba…”

In a Mallowby alphabet book, Abba's letter becomes Abba's page: hand-illustrated, printed hardcover or paperback, made just for them.

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Questions parents ask

What does the name Abba mean?
Abba means 'father' in Aramaic and Hebrew, often used as a term of endearment for God in religious contexts.
How popular is the name Abba?
Abba is very rare. In 2025, it ranked 7,194th in the U.S. with a 1-in-155,280 chance of a baby being named Abba.
Is Abba a boy's name?
Abba is typically used as a boy's name, though it is extremely uncommon.