Holding steady, #12,008 for boys today.
Popularity of Ashok since 1950
Babies named Ashok per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Boys |
|---|---|
| 1950s | 10 |
| 1960s | 34 |
| 1970s | 72 |
| 1980s | 53 |
| 1990s | 26 |
| 2000s | 39 |
| 2010s | 24 |
| 2020s | 5 |
Meaning & origin
Ashok is a Sanskrit name meaning 'without sorrow,' carrying a philosophical weight that has sustained its use across centuries. Its best-known bearer is the ancient emperor Ashoka the Great, who ruled much of the Indian subcontinent and converted to Buddhism after a devastating war. The name's steady but modest use in the United States stems largely from Indian American families. According to Social Security data, Ashok was first recorded in 1950, reached its peak rank in 1975, and in 2025 sat at rank 12008 (1 in 341615 newborns). The name's trajectory shows remarkable stability, reflecting its enduring appeal rather than a trend-driven revival. While it has never ranked among the most popular names nationally, it remains a familiar choice within its cultural community.
Ashok (अशोक) comes from Sanskrit 'a' (not) and 'shoka' (sorrow, grief), meaning 'without sorrow' or 'free from grief'. It is a traditional Indian name associated with Emperor Ashoka (3rd century BCE), who spread Buddhism across the Indian subcontinent. The name has remained common in India and among Hindu communities worldwide.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Ashu
Variants: Ashoka, Asoka
Sibling names for Ashok
Names that share Ashok's style, for a brother or sister.
