Holding steady.
Popularity of Herbie since 1913
Babies named Herbie per year in U.S. Social Security records. Raw births topped out in 1959, but relative to how few babies were recorded back then, Herbie's real moment was 1939.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Boys |
|---|---|
| 1910s | 14 |
| 1920s | 50 |
| 1930s | 155 |
| 1940s | 199 |
| 1950s | 223 |
| 1960s | 261 |
| 1970s | 120 |
| 1980s | 55 |
| 1990s | 10 |
| 2000s | 7 |
| 2010s | 0 |
| 2020s | 0 |
Meaning & origin
Herbie is a friendly, vintage diminutive of Herbert, most commonly associated with the 1930s when it reached its peak popularity in 1939. Though it has since fallen out of regular use, the name carries a nostalgic charm and a stable trajectory in recent years. Its origins as a nickname for Herbert give it a meaning tied to brightness and strength, making it a cozy yet spirited choice.
Herbie originated as a pet form of Herbert, a name of Old German origin from 'heri' (army) and 'beraht' (bright). It emerged in the 19th century as a friendly, informal nickname and gained independent use in the 20th century, particularly in the United States.
Sibling names for Herbie
Names that share Herbie's style, for a brother or sister.
