Rising since 1988, #1,287 for boys today.
Popularity of Conway since 1881
Babies named Conway per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Boys |
|---|---|
| 1880s | 5 |
| 1890s | 6 |
| 1900s | 29 |
| 1910s | 176 |
| 1920s | 366 |
| 1930s | 221 |
| 1940s | 194 |
| 1950s | 181 |
| 1960s | 170 |
| 1970s | 181 |
| 1980s | 106 |
| 1990s | 126 |
| 2000s | 119 |
| 2010s | 453 |
| 2020s | 588 |
Meaning & origin
Conway is a Welsh name with deep geographical roots, drawn from the River Conwy in northern Wales. After first appearing in U.S. records in 1881, the name has slowly gained ground, particularly in recent decades. In 2025, it ranked 1,287th nationally, with 1 in 11,237 boys receiving the name, marking its highest rank yet. The name is most popular in Oklahoma, Missouri, and Tennessee, reflecting a regional preference in the South and Midwest. Since 1988, Conway has been on a rising trajectory, appealing to parents seeking a surname-style name with a natural, place-based meaning.
Conway is a Welsh surname and place name derived from the River Conwy (formerly spelled Conway) in northern Wales. The river's name likely comes from Old Welsh 'cwn' meaning 'holy' and 'wy' meaning 'water'. As a given name, Conway saw modest use in the 19th and early 20th centuries, particularly in English-speaking countries, and has experienced a slight revival in recent decades.
Where Conway is most popular
Births per 100,000 boys by state, 2025. The lightest shade means too few recorded births.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Con, Wayne
Variants: Conwy
Sibling names for Conway
Names that share Conway's style, for a brother or sister.
