Holding steady.
Popularity of Arby since 1913
Babies named Arby per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Boys |
|---|---|
| 1910s | 49 |
| 1920s | 67 |
| 1930s | 58 |
| 1940s | 22 |
| 1950s | 20 |
| 1960s | 8 |
| 1970s | 6 |
| 1980s | 0 |
| 1990s | 0 |
| 2000s | 0 |
| 2010s | 0 |
| 2020s | 0 |
Meaning & origin
Arby is a rare and somewhat enigmatic given name that appears in U.S. birth records as early as 1913, with a peak in 1916. It has never ranked among the top 1,000 names, and its usage has remained stable at very low levels through the years. The name is typically considered a diminutive or variant of other Ar- names such as Archie or Arthur, though its exact origin is not well documented. Parents who choose Arby often appreciate its vintage, straightforward sound and its uniqueness. Despite its rarity, the name has a clear and simple pronunciation, and it fits well with early 20th-century naming styles. The name's trajectory shows no signs of revival, making it a truly distinctive choice for a modern child.
Arby is a rare given name of uncertain origin. It may have originated as a diminutive or nickname for longer names such as Archibald or Arthur, where the initial Ar- is combined with a common -y diminutive suffix. The name appears sporadically in early 20th-century U.S. birth records, with its highest usage occurring in the 1910s. It has never been a common name and remains infrequently used.
Sibling names for Arby
Names that share Arby's style, for a brother or sister.
