A 1880s favorite, climbing again.
Popularity of Chaney since 1886
Babies named Chaney per year in U.S. Social Security records. Raw births topped out in 2003, but relative to how few babies were recorded back then, Chaney's real moment was 1888.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls | Boys |
|---|---|---|
| 1880s | 19 | 0 |
| 1890s | 16 | 0 |
| 1900s | 46 | 0 |
| 1910s | 45 | 9 |
| 1920s | 22 | 5 |
| 1930s | 7 | 0 |
| 1940s | 14 | 0 |
| 1950s | 18 | 5 |
| 1960s | 16 | 6 |
| 1970s | 87 | 62 |
| 1980s | 151 | 63 |
| 1990s | 324 | 143 |
| 2000s | 361 | 102 |
| 2010s | 164 | 11 |
| 2020s | 82 | 5 |
Meaning & origin
Chaney is a rare given name that first appeared in U.S. birth records in 1886, experiencing a modest peak in 1888. After falling out of common use for much of the 20th century, it has seen a revival, showing a rising trajectory since 2022. The name is used for about 1 in every 100,454 babies as of 2025, ranking 6838. Its origins are uncertain, likely derived from an English surname. Chaney offers a distinctive choice for parents seeking an uncommon name with historical roots.
Chaney likely originates as a variant of the English surname Chaney, which itself derives from the Old French 'chane' (oak) or a place name. As a given name, it emerged in the late 19th century, primarily used for girls. The name was first recorded in the United States in 1886 and saw a small peak in popularity in 1888.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Chan, Chey
Variants: Cheyne, Chayney
Sibling names for Chaney
Names that share Chaney's style, for a brother or sister.
