Holding steady, #4,857 for boys today.
Popularity of Judas since 1969
Babies named Judas per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Boys |
|---|---|
| 1960s | 5 |
| 1970s | 54 |
| 1980s | 31 |
| 1990s | 52 |
| 2000s | 136 |
| 2010s | 177 |
| 2020s | 135 |
Meaning & origin
The name Judas carries a heavy historical and religious burden. Its earliest recorded use in U.S. data is 1969, and it has never been common, with a current rank of 4,857 and a frequency of 1 in 85,404 births in 2025. The name reached its highest usage in 2022, suggesting a slight uptick in modern times, though the trajectory remains stable overall. Its top state is California, indicating some geographic concentration. The name's powerful association with the biblical figure who betrayed Jesus has made it a rare and often controversial choice, yet some parents today are drawn to its strong sound and ancient origins.
Judas is the Greek form of the Hebrew name Yehuda (Judah). In the New Testament, Judas Iscariot was the apostle who betrayed Jesus, which has historically made the name highly controversial in Christian contexts. Despite its ancient roots, it has rarely been used as a given name in English-speaking countries, though it has seen occasional use in modern times.
Where Judas is most popular
Births per 100,000 boys by state, 2025. The lightest shade means too few recorded births.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Jude
Sibling names for Judas
Names that share Judas's style, for a brother or sister.
