MallowbyNames

Lenin

LEN-in · From the name of the Russian revolutionary Vladimir Lenin, derived from the Lena River in Siberia.

2025 rank (boys)
#2,884
Babies named in 2025
43
Peak popularity
2018
2025 frequency
1 in 39,723 boys
Usually for
Boys
Trend
Declining since 2018

Declining since 2018, #2,884 for boys today.

Popularity of Lenin since 1925

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

28558319602000Most births 2018Boys
Data table (by decade)
DecadeBoys
1920s5
1930s0
1940s0
1950s0
1960s5
1970s95
1980s147
1990s229
2000s397
2010s527
2020s317

Meaning & origin

Lenin is a politically charged name that entered the American baby name landscape in 1925, reflecting the global impact of the Russian Revolution. The name peaked in popularity in 2018 but has been declining since, as indicated by its falling trajectory. Its highest concentration is in California and Texas. Despite its historical weight, Lenin remains rare in the United States, with only about 1 in 39,723 boys receiving the name in 2025. While some parents choose it as a symbol of leftist ideals, others may be drawn to its strong sound and distinctive character.

Lenin is a surname adopted by Vladimir Ilyich Ulyanov, likely inspired by the Lena River in Siberia. It first appeared as a given name in the 1920s following the Russian Revolution, used primarily in communist countries. The name carries strong political associations and was given to children as a tribute to the revolutionary leader.

Where Lenin is most popular

Births per 100,000 boys by state, 2025. The lightest shade means too few recorded births.

Sibling names for Lenin

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

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

L is for Lenin, our favorite little boy.

L is for Lenin…”

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

Make Lenin's book

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

Questions parents ask

What does the name Lenin mean?
Lenin is derived from the surname of Vladimir Lenin, which itself comes from the Lena River in Siberia. As a given name, it commemorates the revolutionary leader.
How popular is the name Lenin currently?
As of 2025, Lenin is not very common. It ranked 2,884 in the United States in 2025, with about 1 in 39,723 boys receiving the name.
Is Lenin a boy's or girl's name?
Lenin is typically used as a boy's name, though it is occasionally given to girls.