Rising since 2019, #2,583 for girls today.
Popularity of Hillary since 1922
Babies named Hillary per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls |
|---|---|
| 1920s | 5 |
| 1930s | 0 |
| 1940s | 228 |
| 1950s | 708 |
| 1960s | 1,344 |
| 1970s | 4,049 |
| 1980s | 9,607 |
| 1990s | 8,722 |
| 2000s | 2,688 |
| 2010s | 1,289 |
| 2020s | 403 |
Meaning & origin
Hillary saw its peak popularity in 1992, when it ranked among the top names, largely coinciding with political prominence. Since then, its use has fluctuated, with a period of decline followed by a modest resurgence beginning around 2019. The name was first recorded in U.S. data in 1922, and its highest concentrations have historically been in states like Texas and California. Despite its checkered popularity, Hillary retains a classic feel and a positive etymological association with cheerfulness.
Hillary is the English form of the Latin name Hilarius, from 'hilaris' meaning cheerful or merry. It was historically a masculine name, borne by several saints including Saint Hilary of Poitiers. In the 20th century it transitioned to primarily female use, particularly in the United States.
Where Hillary is most popular
Births per 100,000 girls 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: Hil, Lary
Variants: Hilary
Sibling names for Hillary
Names that share Hillary's style, for a brother or sister.
Names like Hillary
Names whose popularity has moved with Hillary's over the last 50 years.
