Declining since 2018, #695 for boys today.
Popularity of Duke since 1880
Babies named Duke per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Boys |
|---|---|
| 1880s | 35 |
| 1890s | 67 |
| 1900s | 71 |
| 1910s | 276 |
| 1920s | 362 |
| 1930s | 344 |
| 1940s | 429 |
| 1950s | 780 |
| 1960s | 795 |
| 1970s | 553 |
| 1980s | 450 |
| 1990s | 566 |
| 2000s | 756 |
| 2010s | 3,699 |
| 2020s | 2,412 |
Meaning & origin
Duke has been in use as a given name since at least 1880, when it first appeared in U.S. records. Its popularity fluctuated in the early 20th century but saw a notable resurgence in the 2010s, reaching its peak rank in 2018. Since then, the name has been on a gradual decline. In 2025, Duke ranked 695th nationally, with an incidence of about 1 in 4,380 newborn boys. The name is particularly well-liked in Hawaii, Iowa, and Utah. Duke's strong, aristocratic associations give it a distinctive charm for parents seeking a bold, single-syllable name.
Duke derives from the Old French 'duc', itself from Latin 'dux' (genitive 'ducis') meaning 'leader, general'. It was adopted as a given name in the 19th century, often as a nickname or honorific for a boy with a commanding presence. The name gained popularity in the United States, partly due to the fame of actor John Wayne, known as 'The Duke'.
Where Duke is most popular
Births per 100,000 boys by state. Press play or drag the slider to watch it move across the decades. The lightest shade means too few recorded births.
Sibling names for Duke
Names that share Duke's style, for a brother or sister.
Sisters: Grace, Ella, Mae, Rose, Vivian, Dixie, Scottie, Gidget, Heiress, Rogue, Sabre, Duchess, Dutchess, Countess, Palin, Sweetie
Brothers: Earl, Ray, Roy, Jack, Dean, Butch, Cash, Champ, Lucky, Prince, Rocky, Royal, Tripp, Colonel, Kreed, Ranger, Sir, Skip, Bucky, Chantz, Lord, Mills, Mister, Chief, Czar, Doctor, Jager, Lieutenant, Thelonious, Trigger, Tank, Bocephus, Boomer, Emperor, Khing, Kingson, Labaron, Marsalis, Trooper
