Holding steady.
Popularity of Lem since 1880
Babies named Lem per year in U.S. Social Security records. Raw births topped out in 1917, but relative to how few babies were recorded back then, Lem's real moment was 1883.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Boys |
|---|---|
| 1880s | 176 |
| 1890s | 155 |
| 1900s | 86 |
| 1910s | 222 |
| 1920s | 239 |
| 1930s | 139 |
| 1940s | 129 |
| 1950s | 90 |
| 1960s | 44 |
| 1970s | 11 |
| 1980s | 6 |
| 1990s | 0 |
| 2000s | 0 |
| 2010s | 0 |
| 2020s | 0 |
Meaning & origin
Lem is a concise and sturdy name that saw its highest usage in the late 19th century, peaking in 1883. Although it never ranked in the top 1000 in later years, it has maintained a steady but minimal presence. The name's trajectory is stable, with no significant revival. As a diminutive of Lemuel, it carries a biblical heritage, but it also stands alone as a straightforward, one-syllable choice. While it lacks top-state popularity, its simplicity and vintage charm appeal to those seeking an uncommon name with historical roots.
Lem is primarily a short form of the biblical name Lemuel, which means 'belonging to God' in Hebrew. The name Lemuel appears in the Book of Proverbs as a king, and its abbreviation Lem has been used as an independent given name in English-speaking countries since the 19th century, particularly in the United States.
Sibling names for Lem
Names that share Lem's style, for a brother or sister.
