Rising since 1990, #1,844 for girls today.
Popularity of Greer since 1912
Babies named Greer per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls | Boys |
|---|---|---|
| 1910s | 0 | 34 |
| 1920s | 0 | 41 |
| 1930s | 0 | 16 |
| 1940s | 176 | 56 |
| 1950s | 147 | 40 |
| 1960s | 216 | 19 |
| 1970s | 170 | 15 |
| 1980s | 232 | 29 |
| 1990s | 420 | 64 |
| 2000s | 441 | 78 |
| 2010s | 727 | 188 |
| 2020s | 556 | 153 |
Meaning & origin
Greer is a Scottish surname turned given name that has been in use in the United States since 1941. In 2025, it ranked 1,844th with a 1-in-14,882 frequency, showing a steady rise since 1990. The name reached its peak popularity in 2025, with the highest usage in Louisiana, Tennessee, and Georgia. This upward trajectory reflects a broader trend of surnames and single-syllable names gaining favor for girls, appealing to parents seeking a concise, distinctive choice.
Greer is a Scottish surname derived from the Gaelic personal name Griogair, meaning 'watchful' or 'vigilant,' which was adopted into English as Gregory. Originally a clan name, it transitioned to a given name in the late 19th century, particularly in Scotland and Northern Ireland. In the United States, Greer gained traction as a unisex name but is now predominantly used for girls, partly influenced by the actress Greer Garson.
Where Greer is most popular
Births per 100,000 girls by state, 2025. The lightest shade means too few recorded births.
Sibling names for Greer
Names that share Greer's style, for a brother or sister.
