Rising since 1988, #853 for girls today.
Popularity of Indigo since 1971
Babies named Indigo per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls | Boys |
|---|---|---|
| 1970s | 5 | 0 |
| 1980s | 12 | 0 |
| 1990s | 565 | 73 |
| 2000s | 597 | 164 |
| 2010s | 1,148 | 393 |
| 2020s | 1,693 | 592 |
Meaning & origin
Indigo entered the U.S. naming charts in 1971, originally a rare choice but one that has climbed steadily in usage. By 2025, the name ranked 853rd, with a ratio of roughly 1 in 5054 births, and it has been on a rising trajectory since 1988. Its peak year so far is 2025, suggesting continued growth. The name is most popular in states like Idaho, Wisconsin, and Oregon. As a vocabulary name tied to a vivid color, Indigo fits modern preferences for distinctive nature-inspired names, and its unisex appeal has broadened its adoption across the country.
Indigo is a modern English name taken directly from the English word for the blue dye, which came via Spanish and Portuguese from Latin 'indicum' meaning 'from India'. The name began to be used as a given name in the late 20th century, particularly in the United States, as part of the trend for color names and nature-inspired vocabulary names. Its use has grown steadily since the 1970s, reflecting broader cultural interest in unique and evocative names.
Where Indigo 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.
“Indigo” around the world
Where Indigo lands in the latest official birth statistics abroad, matched to the U.S. spelling.
Ireland
4
babies in 2025
Sources: CSO Ireland (Ireland).
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Indy, Indi, Go
Variants: Indygo
Sibling names for Indigo
Names that share Indigo's style, for a brother or sister.
