MallowbyNames

Hank

HANK · God is gracious

2025 rank (boys)
#413
Babies named in 2025
776
Peak popularity
2025
2025 frequency
1 in 2,201 boys
Usually for
Boys
Trend
Rising since 2000

Rising since 2000, #413 for boys today.

Popularity of Hank since 1908

Babies named Hank per year in U.S. Social Security records.

259517776192019602000Most births 2025Boys
Data table (by decade)
DecadeBoys
1900s11
1910s38
1920s124
1930s185
1940s462
1950s1,370
1960s1,562
1970s982
1980s973
1990s849
2000s1,243
2010s4,932
2020s4,253

Meaning & origin

Hank is a name that has steadily climbed in popularity since 2000, reaching a peak rank of 413 in 2025, with 1 in 2,201 boys receiving it. Historically recorded since 1908, it saw revival in the 2020s, particularly resonating in states like Montana, South Dakota, and North Dakota. Its straightforward charm and classic roots give it an enduring appeal that feels both familiar and fresh.

Hank originated as a medieval English diminutive of Henry, itself from Germanic Heimrich, meaning 'home ruler.' By the 19th century it became an independent given name in the United States, often associated with rugged individualism. Its popularity has been sustained through cultural figures and a straightforward, friendly sound.

Where Hank 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.

2020s
Fewermore per 100k boystoo few births

Sibling names for Hank

Names that share Hank's style, for a brother or sister.

Names like Hank

Names whose popularity has moved with Hank's over the last 50 years.

A parent animal hugging its little one, the personalized name page

H is for Hank, our favorite little boy.

H is for Hank…”

In a Mallowby alphabet book, Hank's letter becomes Hank's page: hand-illustrated, printed hardcover or paperback, made just for them.

Make Hank's book

Books for siblings or grandkids? The second book is 15% off.

Questions parents ask

What does the name Hank mean?
Hank means 'God is gracious,' derived from its root name Henry.
Is Hank a popular name right now?
Hank ranked 413th in 2025, with about 1 in 2,201 boys given the name, and its popularity has been rising since 2000.
Is Hank a boy's name or a girl's name?
Hank is predominantly a boy's name, though it's occasionally used for girls. The U.S. Social Security data records it almost exclusively for boys.