Holding steady, #6,803 for boys today.
Popularity of Bud since 1880
Babies named Bud per year in U.S. Social Security records. Raw births topped out in 1928, but relative to how few babies were recorded back then, Bud's real moment was 1889.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Boys |
|---|---|
| 1880s | 401 |
| 1890s | 359 |
| 1900s | 340 |
| 1910s | 1,202 |
| 1920s | 1,882 |
| 1930s | 1,512 |
| 1940s | 993 |
| 1950s | 1,096 |
| 1960s | 677 |
| 1970s | 341 |
| 1980s | 361 |
| 1990s | 147 |
| 2000s | 50 |
| 2010s | 75 |
| 2020s | 66 |
Meaning & origin
Bud has a long history as an American given name, first recorded in 1880 in the Social Security Administration data. At its peak in 1889, it was far more common, though it never ranked among the top names. In 2025, the name saw 1 in 142,340 boys named Bud, a stable trajectory that reflects its enduring but niche appeal. The name is a classic example of a nickname becoming a standalone given name, and its meaning as a term of endearment has kept it in occasional but steady use.
Bud originated as an American English diminutive or nickname, derived from the word 'bud' (a young plant shoot) used as a term of endearment for a younger brother or close friend. By the late 19th century, it was used as a given name, especially in the United States. Its popularity peaked in the 1880s and 1890s but declined steadily after the early 20th century.
Where Bud 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.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Buddy
Sibling names for Bud
Names that share Bud's style, for a brother or sister.
