Rising since 1985, #248 for boys today.
Popularity of Cade since 1953
Babies named Cade per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Boys |
|---|---|
| 1950s | 5 |
| 1960s | 35 |
| 1970s | 491 |
| 1980s | 863 |
| 1990s | 4,570 |
| 2000s | 13,668 |
| 2010s | 8,311 |
| 2020s | 6,829 |
Meaning & origin
Cade first appeared in U.S. records in 1953 and has seen a notable rise in popularity, particularly since the 1980s. The name reached its peak in 2001, ranking higher than in any year before or since. As of 2025, it ranks 248th, with about 1 in 1,227 boys receiving the name. Its trajectory has been steadily upward since 1985, reflecting a broader trend toward short, strong-sounding names. States with the highest relative usage include Hawaii, Ohio, and Michigan, suggesting regional appeal. While the name's etymology is debated, its modern sound and easy pronunciation have contributed to its enduring popularity.
Cade likely originates as an English surname with multiple possible roots. It may derive from the Old English word 'cād' meaning 'round' or 'lumpy', or from a place name. Alternatively, it could be a shortened form of the Irish name Cathal (meaning 'battle rule'), brought to England via Norman influence. The name gained popularity in the 20th century, especially in the United States.
Where Cade 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.
“Cade” around the world
Where Cade lands in the latest official birth statistics abroad, matched to the U.S. spelling.
Ireland
4
babies in 2025
Sources: CSO Ireland (Ireland).
Sibling names for Cade
Names that share Cade's style, for a brother or sister.
Sisters: Reese, Sage, Brynn, Quinn, Paige, Jaye, Jori, Kenna, Cena, Jaelee, Jailine, Marne, Teela, Ader, Aigner, Cachet, Caidance, Caress, Donae, Taige, Tawn, Tene, Camey, Acasia, Brean, Chanti, Chasta, Cina, Dylana, Kresta, Mairyn
Brothers: Dawson, Cole, Jack, Reece, Grant, Chase, Gage, Kobe, Kade, Kane, Pierce, Blane, Cache, Dayne, Gaige, Kaine, Mace, Quade, Thayne, Wayde, Whit, Bayne, Caige, Chanse, Daine, Dreux, Kord, Kyre, Shone, Baine, Braven, Chayne, Da, Dace, Jhett, Kayd, Kyce, Lancer, Rece, Swade, Trayce, Brigg, Adean, Breece, Caide, Cambren, Cohl, Gadge, Gaje, Jp, Kincade, Reade, Traye
Names like Cade
Names whose popularity has moved with Cade's over the last 50 years.
