Declining since 2011, #2,539 for boys today.
Popularity of Cy since 1902
Babies named Cy per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Boys |
|---|---|
| 1900s | 11 |
| 1910s | 81 |
| 1920s | 63 |
| 1930s | 61 |
| 1940s | 78 |
| 1950s | 211 |
| 1960s | 196 |
| 1970s | 300 |
| 1980s | 346 |
| 1990s | 501 |
| 2000s | 892 |
| 2010s | 803 |
| 2020s | 355 |
Meaning & origin
Cy is a concise, one-syllable name typically used as a short form of Cyrus. It has been in U.S. records since 1902, peaking in rank in 2010, and is currently trending downward since 2011. In 2025, the name ranked 2539th with a frequency of 1 in 32,848 births. The most common states for the name are New York, Texas, and California. Its short, punchy sound aligns with other single-syllable vintage nicknames, making it a straightforward choice for parents seeking a simple yet distinctive name.
Cy is primarily a diminutive of Cyrus, a name of Persian origin from 'Kūrush', meaning 'sun' or 'throne'. It is also associated with the Greek 'Kyros', possibly meaning 'young' or 'far-sighted'. As a standalone name, Cy gained moderate popularity in the United States in the early 20th century.
Where Cy is most popular
Births per 100,000 boys by state, 2025. The lightest shade means too few recorded births.
Sibling names for Cy
Names that share Cy's style, for a brother or sister.
