Rising since 1991, #1,777 for girls today.
Popularity of Kalliope since 1922
Babies named Kalliope per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls |
|---|---|
| 1920s | 19 |
| 1930s | 0 |
| 1940s | 0 |
| 1950s | 7 |
| 1960s | 10 |
| 1970s | 25 |
| 1980s | 16 |
| 1990s | 39 |
| 2000s | 100 |
| 2010s | 529 |
| 2020s | 578 |
Meaning & origin
Kalliope, the name of the Greek Muse of epic poetry, has a history of rare but persistent use in the United States. First recorded in 1922, the name saw little activity until a gradual resurgence began around 1991. This upward trajectory continued into the 2020s, culminating in its peak year to date in 2025, when it ranked 1,777 nationally with roughly 1 in 14,224 newborn girls receiving the name. Kalliope has found particular favor in states such as Indiana, Illinois, and Ohio, suggesting a regional appeal that may be influenced by classical naming trends in the Midwest.
Kalliope is derived from the Greek elements 'kallos' (beauty) and 'ops' (voice). In Greek mythology, she is the eldest of the nine Muses, presiding over epic poetry. The name has been used in the English-speaking world since the Renaissance, though it was rare outside of classical contexts until the 20th century.
Where Kalliope is most popular
Births per 100,000 girls by state, 2025. The lightest shade means too few recorded births.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Callie, Kallie, Lia, Kally
Variants: Calliope
Sibling names for Kalliope
Names that share Kalliope's style, for a brother or sister.
