Declining since 1985, #2,641 for boys today.
Popularity of Herbert since 1880
Babies named Herbert per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Boys |
|---|---|
| 1880s | 4,257 |
| 1890s | 5,660 |
| 1900s | 6,957 |
| 1910s | 33,860 |
| 1920s | 56,531 |
| 1930s | 37,821 |
| 1940s | 28,710 |
| 1950s | 24,298 |
| 1960s | 13,701 |
| 1970s | 7,248 |
| 1980s | 4,463 |
| 1990s | 2,409 |
| 2000s | 1,234 |
| 2010s | 767 |
| 2020s | 350 |
Meaning & origin
Herbert is a classic Germanic name that has seen a dramatic decline in usage over the past century. First recorded in the United States in 1880, it reached its peak rank of number 1 in 1929, making it a staple of the 1920s and 1930s. Since 1985, its popularity has fallen steadily, and as of 2025 it sits at rank 2,641, with only 1 in 34,859 boys receiving the name. While no top states currently favor Herbert, its historical weight and straightforward pronunciation give it a sturdy, old-fashioned appeal. Parents choosing Herbert today often appreciate its connection to a bygone era of strong, no-nonsense names.
Herbert derives from the Old German elements 'heri' meaning 'army' and 'beraht' meaning 'bright' or 'famous'. It was introduced to England by the Normans and became common in the Middle Ages. The name experienced a revival in the 19th and early 20th centuries, particularly in English-speaking countries.
Where Herbert 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: Herb, Bert, Herbie
Sibling names for Herbert
Names that share Herbert's style, for a brother or sister.
Sisters: Edith, Mabel, Florence, Gladys, Agnes, Lois, Annis, Hildred, Ethyle, Lubertha, Robertha, Wilberta, Connee, Delberta, Gearline, Jilda, Nicie, Gennell, Cloris, Herberta, Lillar
Brothers: Walter, Harold, Ernest, Clarence, Arthur, Delbert, Gilbert, Morris, Wilbert, Archibald, Ernie, Hobert, Wilber, Clarance, Hilbert, Manford, Montie, Thurston, Bland, Burlin, Burnie, Clearnce, Filbert, Guilford, Harding, Milfred, Thelbert, Wilburt, Wilferd, Burnard, Dalbert, Eldredge, Gifford, Milbert, Rawleigh, Wilkins, Calbert, Claudy, Clerance, Cliffard, Hubbert, Hulbert, Lawarence, Milferd, Norm, Thedford
Names like Herbert
Names whose popularity has moved with Herbert's over the last 50 years.
