A 1980s favorite, climbing again.
Popularity of Holly since 1893
Babies named Holly per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls |
|---|---|
| 1890s | 30 |
| 1900s | 35 |
| 1910s | 133 |
| 1920s | 199 |
| 1930s | 415 |
| 1940s | 3,961 |
| 1950s | 18,633 |
| 1960s | 32,144 |
| 1970s | 50,464 |
| 1980s | 49,653 |
| 1990s | 27,072 |
| 2000s | 11,597 |
| 2010s | 6,785 |
| 2020s | 4,183 |
Meaning & origin
Holly is a nature-inspired name that has maintained steady popularity in the United States since its first recorded use in 1893. It reached its peak in 1983, when it ranked among the top 100 names, but has since settled into a lower rank. The name has been rising again since 2017, reflecting a revival of interest in classic and botanical names. Holly is most popular in Washington, D.C., Montana, and Idaho, where it appears in higher concentrations than nationally. Its simplicity and seasonal associations make it a familiar and cheerful choice.
Holly originates from the Old English word 'holegn,' referring to the holly tree, an evergreen plant with spiny leaves and red berries. The name gained popularity in the 20th century, especially in the United States, where it was used both as a given name and a nature-inspired choice. Its association with the Christmas season has contributed to its enduring use.
Where Holly 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.
“Holly” around the world
Where Holly lands in the latest official birth statistics abroad, matched to the U.S. spelling.
France
15
babies in 2024
Ireland
#69
in 2025
New Zealand
24
babies in 2025
Sources: INSEE (France) · CSO Ireland (Ireland) · NZ Dept of Internal Affairs (New Zealand).
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Hol
Variants: Hollie
Sibling names for Holly
Names that share Holly's style, for a brother or sister.
Sisters: Heather, Ivy, Hazel, Rose, Molly, Christal, Hollie, Merrie, Merry, Aprile, Noely, Bryony, Hawley, Hayde, Hayle, Hether, Hiedi, Jacci, Jessamy, Christmas, Henchy, Meliss, Tabby
Brothers: Heath, Rowan, Cody, Jack, Oliver, Noel, Randall, Jestin, Hurley, Harden, Jeison, Haddon, Hollace, Hever, Nowell
Names like Holly
Names whose popularity has moved with Holly's over the last 50 years.
