Holding steady.
Popularity of Hoover since 1913
Babies named Hoover per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Boys |
|---|---|
| 1910s | 51 |
| 1920s | 578 |
| 1930s | 270 |
| 1940s | 24 |
| 1950s | 123 |
| 1960s | 44 |
| 1970s | 5 |
| 1980s | 19 |
| 1990s | 0 |
| 2000s | 0 |
| 2010s | 0 |
| 2020s | 6 |
Meaning & origin
Hoover is a distinctive and uncommon given name, primarily recognized as a surname-turned-first-name. Its peak came in 1928, likely due to the prominence of Herbert Hoover, who was elected President that year. Since then, the name has become rare. In 2025, it did not rank among the top 1000 names for any gender, reflecting its status as a unique choice. The name's trajectory has remained stable at low usage levels since its decline after the 1920s. While Hoover has not appeared in top state rankings, it carries a strong historical resonance tied to the Great Depression era. This combination of a presidential surname and a distinct sound gives Hoover an Americana feel.
Hoover originated as an English surname, likely from a place name meaning 'from the hollow' or 'dweller by the hill'. It gained popularity as a given name in the early 20th century, peaking in the 1920s, possibly influenced by President Herbert Hoover, who served from 1929 to 1933. The name has since declined in use.
Sibling names for Hoover
Names that share Hoover's style, for a brother or sister.
