MallowbyNames

Joplin

JOP-lin · Of uncertain origin; possibly a surname of English derivation or a modern coinage inspired by musician Janis Joplin.

2025 rank (girls)
#6,325
Babies named in 2025
18
Peak popularity
2019
2025 frequency
1 in 89,293 girls
Usually for
Girls
Trend
Declining since 2020

Declining since 2020, #6,325 for girls today.

Popularity of Joplin since 2000

Babies named Joplin per year in U.S. Social Security records.

91827200020102020Most births 2019Girls
Data table (by decade)
DecadeGirls
2000s75
2010s185
2020s101

Meaning & origin

Joplin is a modern given name that first appeared on the U.S. baby name charts in 2000. Its use likely draws inspiration from the surname of Janis Joplin, the iconic rock and blues singer known for her powerful voice and free-spirited persona. The name saw a peak in popularity in 2019, though it has been declining since 2020, with only about 1 in 89293 newborns receiving the name in 2025. Despite its recent origins, Joplin carries a distinctive, artistic aura that appeals to parents seeking an unconventional name. Its similarity to other surname-style names like Harper and Quinn positions it within a broader trend of using family names as given names. While its meaning remains uncertain, its association with a legendary musician gives it a modern, countercultural edge.

Joplin is likely a modern given name derived from the surname Joplin, which may be of English origin. The surname could be a variant of Jobling or Jopling, potentially meaning 'descendant of Jopin', a medieval given name. The name gained visibility as a first name in the early 2000s, possibly inspired by the famous singer Janis Joplin.

Nicknames & variants

Nicknames: Jopi, Lin

Sibling names for Joplin

Names that share Joplin's style, for a brother or sister.

A parent animal hugging its little one, the personalized name page

J is for Joplin, our favorite little girl.

J is for Joplin…”

In a Mallowby alphabet book, Joplin's letter becomes Joplin's page: hand-illustrated, printed hardcover or paperback, made just for them.

Make Joplin's book

Books for siblings or grandkids? The second book is 15% off.

Questions parents ask

What does the name Joplin mean?
The meaning of Joplin is uncertain. It may be derived from an English surname of unknown origin, or it may be a modern coinage inspired by the surname of musician Janis Joplin.
How popular is the name Joplin?
Joplin first appeared in U.S. birth records in 2000. As of 2025, it ranked 6325, with about 1 in 89293 newborns given the name. Its peak year was 2019, and its popularity has been falling since 2020.
Is Joplin a boy or girl name?
Joplin is primarily used for girls. While it could be unisex, the data shows it is almost exclusively given to girls.