Holding steady, #7,679 for boys today.
Popularity of Harvard since 1912
Babies named Harvard per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Boys |
|---|---|
| 1910s | 137 |
| 1920s | 138 |
| 1930s | 136 |
| 1940s | 87 |
| 1950s | 45 |
| 1960s | 17 |
| 1970s | 5 |
| 1980s | 6 |
| 1990s | 0 |
| 2000s | 6 |
| 2010s | 27 |
| 2020s | 10 |
Meaning & origin
Harvard is an exceedingly rare given name drawn from the prestigious university surname. First recorded for a baby boy in 1912, it reached its peak popularity in 1913, albeit with minimal usage. In 2025, it ranked 7,679th with just 1 in 170,808 newborn boys receiving the name, reflecting a stable trajectory over the past century. The name carries strong academic and Ivy League associations, making it a bold choice for parents seeking a distinctive honorific. While it never cracked the top 1,000 and has no notable top states, Harvard remains a curiosity in American naming, appealing to those with a connection to the institution or an appreciation for uncommon surnames as first names.
The name Harvard is primarily known as a surname and as the name of Harvard University. It likely derives from the Old English personal name 'Hereweard' or from a place name meaning 'army guardian'. Its use as a given name is rare and modern, inspired by the university's prestige.
Sibling names for Harvard
Names that share Harvard's style, for a brother or sister.
