A 1920s favorite, climbing again.
Popularity of Imogene since 1880
Babies named Imogene per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls |
|---|---|
| 1880s | 136 |
| 1890s | 294 |
| 1900s | 597 |
| 1910s | 3,690 |
| 1920s | 11,295 |
| 1930s | 6,931 |
| 1940s | 2,450 |
| 1950s | 1,101 |
| 1960s | 353 |
| 1970s | 113 |
| 1980s | 58 |
| 1990s | 44 |
| 2000s | 87 |
| 2010s | 352 |
| 2020s | 400 |
Meaning & origin
Imogene has a storied yet quiet presence in American naming history. Its peak came in 1927 when it ranked among the top 500 names, but it declined afterward and spent decades in relative obscurity. Since 1993, however, Imogene has been on a steady upward trajectory, reflecting a revival of vintage names from the 1920s. In 2025, it ranked 2,514, with approximately 1 in 22,961 newborn girls receiving the name, and it is most common in states like Tennessee, Michigan, and California. The name's enduring appeal lies in its soft, antique charm and its connection to the more famous Imogen, yet Imogene stands on its own as a distinct choice with a gentle, feminine sound.
Imogene is derived from the Latin word 'innocens' meaning 'innocent' or 'harmless.' It was likely influenced by the name 'Imogen,' which appears in Shakespeare's play 'Cymbeline' (1611). However, 'Imogene' itself emerged as a variant in the 19th century and gained popularity in the United States. The name is often considered a diminutive or feminine form of 'Imogen,' though its exact derivation remains debated.
Where Imogene 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: Immy, Imo, Genie, Jean
Sibling names for Imogene
Names that share Imogene's style, for a brother or sister.
