Rising since 2005, #2,183 for boys today.
Popularity of Hero since 2000
Babies named Hero per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls | Boys |
|---|---|---|
| 2000s | 61 | 63 |
| 2010s | 111 | 352 |
| 2020s | 47 | 391 |
Meaning & origin
Hero is a modern unisex name that has been in use in the United States since 2004, reflecting a trend toward virtue names and mythological inspirations. It reached its peak popularity in 2021, and its trajectory has been steadily rising since 2005. In 2025, it ranked 2,183rd with approximately 1 in 26,278 newborns receiving the name. This increase mirrors a broader cultural embrace of bold, aspirational names. The name is especially favored in Georgia, Texas, and California, states known for diverse and trend-setting naming practices. As a direct adoption of the English word 'hero', it carries connotations of bravery and strength, drawing on its Greek origins. Its unisex appeal has helped it gain traction among parents seeking a distinctive but accessible name.
Hero derives from the Greek word hērōs (ἥρως), which originally denoted a demigod or a man of superhuman strength and courage. In classical mythology, the term was applied to figures like Heracles and Achilles. It entered English via Latin and French, and as a given name gained traction in the late 20th and early 21st centuries, used for both boys and girls.
Where Hero is most popular
Births per 100,000 boys by state, 2025. The lightest shade means too few recorded births.
Sibling names for Hero
Names that share Hero's style, for a brother or sister.
