Rising since 1987, #673 for girls today.
Popularity of Laney since 1883
Babies named Laney per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls |
|---|---|
| 1880s | 5 |
| 1890s | 10 |
| 1900s | 16 |
| 1910s | 52 |
| 1920s | 61 |
| 1930s | 20 |
| 1940s | 56 |
| 1950s | 64 |
| 1960s | 87 |
| 1970s | 151 |
| 1980s | 297 |
| 1990s | 994 |
| 2000s | 5,136 |
| 2010s | 4,475 |
| 2020s | 2,600 |
Meaning & origin
Laney first appeared on the U.S. baby name charts in 1883, but it remained rare for a century. Its popularity began rising in the late 20th century, especially from 1987 onward, and it reached its peak rank in 2005. Though it has since declined from that high, it remains in steady use, particularly in the state of Idaho, Nebraska, and Oklahoma, where it ranked highest. With a current rank of 673 and a one-in-3,818 frequency in 2025, Laney is a familiar yet uncommon choice that balances nickname charm with standalone substance. Its trajectory suggests continued moderate appeal, especially among parents seeking a short, friendly name with a gentle sound.
Laney emerged as a given name in the late 19th century, likely as a pet form of Elaine (an Old French variant of Helen) or as a feminine form of Lane, an English surname referring to a narrow pathway. It gained modest popularity as an independent name in the 20th century, particularly in the United States.
Where Laney 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: Lane, Ney
Sibling names for Laney
Names that share Laney's style, for a brother or sister.
Names like Laney
Names whose popularity has moved with Laney's over the last 50 years.
