A 1960s favorite, climbing again.
Popularity of Cheri since 1925
Babies named Cheri per year in U.S. Social Security records. Raw births topped out in 1960, but relative to how few babies were recorded back then, Cheri's real moment was 1967.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls |
|---|---|
| 1920s | 21 |
| 1930s | 181 |
| 1940s | 3,081 |
| 1950s | 9,087 |
| 1960s | 11,930 |
| 1970s | 7,763 |
| 1980s | 3,034 |
| 1990s | 681 |
| 2000s | 171 |
| 2010s | 91 |
| 2020s | 28 |
Meaning & origin
Cheri is a name that experienced its peak during the 1960s, specifically reaching its highest rank in 1967. After that peak, its usage steadily declined, but it has been on a rising trajectory since 2021, suggesting a modest resurgence. In 2025, it ranked 13,208, with about 1 in every 267,878 girls receiving the name. While the name was not associated with any particular top states historically, it fits a classic mid-century style that may appeal to parents seeking a gentle, French-inspired name.
Cheri originated as an English spelling variant of the French term 'chérie', meaning 'darling' or 'beloved'. It became popular in the United States during the mid-20th century, especially in the 1960s, as part of a trend for soft, romantic-sounding names. It peaked in popularity in 1967, with its highest recorded use, and has since become less common.
Where Cheri 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: Cher, Cherie
Sibling names for Cheri
Names that share Cheri's style, for a brother or sister.
