A 1950s favorite, climbing again.
Popularity of Bonita since 1888
Babies named Bonita per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls |
|---|---|
| 1880s | 6 |
| 1890s | 35 |
| 1900s | 165 |
| 1910s | 735 |
| 1920s | 1,726 |
| 1930s | 2,633 |
| 1940s | 10,405 |
| 1950s | 12,076 |
| 1960s | 6,587 |
| 1970s | 1,718 |
| 1980s | 885 |
| 1990s | 450 |
| 2000s | 186 |
| 2010s | 149 |
| 2020s | 86 |
Meaning & origin
Bonita entered U.S. records as early as 1888, but its peak year was 1950, when it ranked among the top 500 names. After a long decline, it has seen a slight resurgence since 2018, though it remains uncommon. In 2025, it ranked 8,860th with a frequency of 1 in 146,115 births. The name is strongly associated with mid-century American naming trends, and its Spanish roots give it a cross-cultural appeal. While no top states currently show a concentration, Bonita has a vintage charm that appeals to parents seeking a distinctive yet accessible name.
Bonita is the feminine form of the Spanish adjective 'bonito', meaning 'pretty' or 'cute'. It originated as a descriptive nickname and later became used as a given name, particularly in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The name gained popularity in English-speaking countries, especially in the United States, where it was initially used as a term of endearment before being adopted as a formal name.
Where Bonita is most popular
Births per 100,000 girls 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: Bonnie, Nita, Boni
Sibling names for Bonita
Names that share Bonita's style, for a brother or sister.
