Declining since 1985.
Popularity of Bart since 1880
Babies named Bart per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Boys |
|---|---|
| 1880s | 97 |
| 1890s | 73 |
| 1900s | 71 |
| 1910s | 228 |
| 1920s | 393 |
| 1930s | 493 |
| 1940s | 955 |
| 1950s | 3,295 |
| 1960s | 6,126 |
| 1970s | 2,973 |
| 1980s | 1,263 |
| 1990s | 256 |
| 2000s | 93 |
| 2010s | 35 |
| 2020s | 5 |
Meaning & origin
Bart is a short, punchy name that stands as an independent given name rather than just a nickname for Bartholomew. It has been in use since at least 1880, the earliest year in Social Security records, though it was never among the most popular names. Its peak year was 1959, when it reached its highest rank. Since 1985, the name has been on a downward trajectory, and it no longer appears in the top 1,000 rankings. The name is best known from the fictional character Bart Simpson, but its history predates that association by over a century. Bart's simplicity and strong consonant sound give it a sturdy, no-frills appeal, though it has become quite rare in recent decades.
Bart is a diminutive of Bartholomew, which comes from the Aramaic bar-Tolmay, meaning 'son of Talmai'. Talmai may mean 'furrowed land' or 'plowman'. Bartholomew was one of the twelve apostles, giving the name a long history of use in Christian contexts. Bart emerged as an independent given name in the 19th century, particularly in English-speaking countries.
Where Bart 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.
Sibling names for Bart
Names that share Bart's style, for a brother or sister.
