Declining since 1987.
Popularity of Adolph since 1880
Babies named Adolph per year in U.S. Social Security records. Raw births topped out in 1917, but relative to how few babies were recorded back then, Adolph's real moment was 1883.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Boys |
|---|---|
| 1880s | 994 |
| 1890s | 945 |
| 1900s | 941 |
| 1910s | 4,523 |
| 1920s | 4,471 |
| 1930s | 2,189 |
| 1940s | 1,261 |
| 1950s | 1,368 |
| 1960s | 826 |
| 1970s | 518 |
| 1980s | 334 |
| 1990s | 215 |
| 2000s | 93 |
| 2010s | 48 |
| 2020s | 19 |
Meaning & origin
Adolph, a name with deep Germanic roots, has seen a dramatic decline in usage since the mid-20th century. First recorded in 1880, it reached its peak year in 1883, when it was relatively common. However, the trajectory has been falling since 1987, and the name is now rarely used. The association with Adolf Hitler has made the name nearly taboo in many Western countries, though historically it was borne by European royalty. The spelling 'Adolph' was more common in English-speaking countries, while 'Adolf' remained prevalent in Germany. Despite its noble etymology, the name's modern legacy is overwhelmingly negative.
Adolph is the English form of the German name Adolf, derived from the Old High German elements 'adal' (noble) and 'wolf' (wolf). It was a common name among European royalty, including several kings of Sweden. Its usage declined sharply after World War II due to its association with Adolf Hitler.
Where Adolph is most popular
Births per 100,000 boys by state. Press play or drag the slider to watch it move across the decades. The lightest shade means too few recorded births.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Ad, Dolph, Addy
Sibling names for Adolph
Names that share Adolph's style, for a brother or sister.
