A 1890s favorite, climbing again.
Popularity of Foster since 1880
Babies named Foster per year in U.S. Social Security records. Raw births topped out in 2025, but relative to how few babies were recorded back then, Foster's real moment was 1896.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Boys |
|---|---|
| 1880s | 241 |
| 1890s | 351 |
| 1900s | 343 |
| 1910s | 1,406 |
| 1920s | 1,644 |
| 1930s | 1,041 |
| 1940s | 1,065 |
| 1950s | 757 |
| 1960s | 476 |
| 1970s | 359 |
| 1980s | 361 |
| 1990s | 849 |
| 2000s | 981 |
| 2010s | 1,894 |
| 2020s | 1,354 |
Meaning & origin
Foster is an English occupational surname turned given name, with roots in the idea of nurturing and care. Despite its old English origins, the name saw its peak popularity in 1896, when it ranked highest in usage. After a period of decline, Foster began a steady resurgence starting in 1985, and it has been rising ever since. In recent years, it has been most commonly chosen in southern states such as Louisiana, Alabama, and Arkansas. With its strong, straightforward sound and professional associations, Foster offers a distinctive yet accessible choice that balances history with modern appeal.
Foster derives from the Middle English term 'fostre,' itself from Old English 'fōstor,' meaning 'nourishment' or 'upbringing.' The name originally referred to a person who served as a foster parent or caretaker, and later became an occupational surname for a forester or keeper of game. As a given name, Foster has been in steady use since the 19th century, particularly in the southern United States.
Where Foster 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: Fozzy
Sibling names for Foster
Names that share Foster's style, for a brother or sister.
