Holding steady.
Popularity of Cola since 1894
Babies named Cola per year in U.S. Social Security records. Raw births topped out in 1916, but relative to how few babies were recorded back then, Cola's real moment was 1895.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls | Boys |
|---|---|---|
| 1890s | 16 | 0 |
| 1900s | 15 | 0 |
| 1910s | 82 | 36 |
| 1920s | 84 | 29 |
| 1930s | 25 | 5 |
| 1940s | 31 | 6 |
| 1950s | 0 | 0 |
| 1960s | 0 | 5 |
| 1970s | 0 | 0 |
| 1980s | 6 | 0 |
| 1990s | 0 | 0 |
| 2000s | 0 | 0 |
| 2010s | 0 | 0 |
| 2020s | 0 | 0 |
Meaning & origin
Cola is a name that first appeared in U.S. records in 1894, and achieved its peak popularity the following year, in 1895. Despite a brief appearance in the late 19th century, it has remained consistently rare, with a stable trajectory and no resurgence in recent decades. Its origins are debated, with possible Irish roots or a connection to the name Nicholas. The name has never ranked in the top 1000 beyond its peak year, and its top states of usage are not recorded, indicating its spread was minimal. For parents seeking a short, historically uncommon name with Irish heritage, Cola offers a distinctive option.
Cola is a name of uncertain origin. It may be an Anglicized form of the Irish Comhaltan, composed of 'comh' meaning 'together' and 'alt' meaning 'great valor' or 'victory of the people'. Alternatively, it could be a diminutive of Nicholas, from Greek 'nike' (victory) and 'laos' (people). The name has been used in Ireland since the 19th century, particularly in the 1890s when it peaked in the United States.
Sibling names for Cola
Names that share Cola's style, for a brother or sister.
