A 1930s favorite, climbing again.
Popularity of Huey since 1880
Babies named Huey per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Boys |
|---|---|
| 1880s | 26 |
| 1890s | 55 |
| 1900s | 67 |
| 1910s | 337 |
| 1920s | 963 |
| 1930s | 2,169 |
| 1940s | 845 |
| 1950s | 887 |
| 1960s | 581 |
| 1970s | 333 |
| 1980s | 199 |
| 1990s | 122 |
| 2000s | 103 |
| 2010s | 179 |
| 2020s | 232 |
Meaning & origin
Huey first appeared in U.S. records in 1880, but its most notable era was the 1930s, when it peaked at rank 85 in 1935. After a long decline, the name has been rising again since 2001, though it still remains uncommon, at rank 2941 in 2025 with a birth rate of 1 in 40,668. The name's revival may reflect a broader trend of vintage nickname names, similar to Louie and Dewey. While Huey had no top states in recent data, its historical peak aligns with the tenure of Huey Long, the charismatic Louisiana senator. The name carries a friendly, down-to-earth feel, making it a choice that balances nostalgic charm with modern rarity.
Huey originated as a diminutive of Hugh, which itself derives from the Old Germanic element 'hug' meaning 'heart, mind, or spirit'. Brought to England by the Normans, Hugh became a common medieval name, and Huey emerged as a pet form, particularly in Scotland and Ireland. It saw peak popularity in the United States during the 1930s, partly influenced by Louisiana governor Huey Long.
Where Huey is most popular
Births per 100,000 boys 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
Variants: Hughie
Sibling names for Huey
Names that share Huey's style, for a brother or sister.
