Holding steady, #5,208 for boys today.
Popularity of Aristotle since 1925
Babies named Aristotle per year in U.S. Social Security records. Raw births topped out in 2001, but relative to how few babies were recorded back then, Aristotle's real moment was 2016.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Boys |
|---|---|
| 1920s | 32 |
| 1930s | 7 |
| 1940s | 0 |
| 1950s | 0 |
| 1960s | 19 |
| 1970s | 103 |
| 1980s | 68 |
| 1990s | 195 |
| 2000s | 214 |
| 2010s | 256 |
| 2020s | 123 |
Meaning & origin
The name Aristotle, while rare, has held a steady niche in American naming since its first recorded use in 1925. As of 2025, it ranked 5,208, translating to approximately 1 in 94,893 births. Its peak year was 2016, reflecting a modest boost likely tied to cultural factors. The name shows a stable trajectory over recent decades, and its top state is Texas. Though uncommon, Aristotle carries the weight of classical philosophy and appeals to parents seeking an intellectual and distinctive name.
Derived from the Greek name Ἀριστοτέλης (Aristoteles), composed of ἄριστος (aristos) meaning 'best' and τέλος (telos) meaning 'purpose' or 'end'. The name is most famously borne by the Greek philosopher Aristotle (384-322 BCE), a student of Plato and teacher of Alexander the Great. It was revived in the English-speaking world in the 19th century, particularly in intellectual and literary circles.
Where Aristotle is most popular
Births per 100,000 boys by state, 2025. The lightest shade means too few recorded births.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Ari, Telly
Variants: Aristoteles
Sibling names for Aristotle
Names that share Aristotle's style, for a brother or sister.
