A 1900s favorite, climbing again.
Popularity of Elbert since 1880
Babies named Elbert per year in U.S. Social Security records. Raw births topped out in 1920, but relative to how few babies were recorded back then, Elbert's real moment was 1909.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Boys |
|---|---|
| 1880s | 905 |
| 1890s | 910 |
| 1900s | 1,131 |
| 1910s | 4,990 |
| 1920s | 7,076 |
| 1930s | 5,217 |
| 1940s | 4,451 |
| 1950s | 3,507 |
| 1960s | 2,246 |
| 1970s | 1,338 |
| 1980s | 791 |
| 1990s | 491 |
| 2000s | 259 |
| 2010s | 157 |
| 2020s | 42 |
Meaning & origin
Elbert is a masculine given name of Old English origin, meaning 'noble and bright'. Historically, it peaked in popularity in 1909, a strong showing during the early 20th century. After decades of decline, the name has been rising in use since 2022, suggesting a modest revival. In 2025, it ranked 8,243, with approximately 1 in 189,786 boys being named Elbert that year. The name was first recorded in the U.S. in 1880, and while it has never been a top-tier choice, it retains a classic, sturdy feel. Its revival in recent years may appeal to parents seeking an uncommon vintage name.
Elbert is derived from the Old English name Æþelbeorht, composed of the elements æþel 'noble' and beorht 'bright, famous'. It is a variant of Albert, with a similar meaning and development through Middle English. The name was common in medieval England and saw a revival in the 19th century.
Where Elbert 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.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: El, Bert, Berty
Sibling names for Elbert
Names that share Elbert's style, for a brother or sister.
Sisters: Edith, Mabel, Clara, Hazel, Nora, Altha, Alverta, Ardella, Drema, Elwanda, Louvenia, Alverna, Celester, Etna, Luberta, Paralee, Wilberta, Zelphia, Delberta, Verlia, Albirda, Deltha, Doneta, Elgene, Elverda, Elverta, Evanell, Zilphia
Brothers: Oscar, Alvin, Earl, Clarence, Walter, Berton, Delbert, Elvin, Hobert, Wilbert, Delmon, Thelbert, Dalbert, Elkin, Elver, Elvert, Milbert, Elmond, Calbert, Elby, Holbert, Hulbert
