Holding steady.
Popularity of Less since 1881
Babies named Less per year in U.S. Social Security records. Raw births topped out in 1923, but relative to how few babies were recorded back then, Less's real moment was 1900.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Boys |
|---|---|
| 1880s | 15 |
| 1890s | 10 |
| 1900s | 46 |
| 1910s | 75 |
| 1920s | 55 |
| 1930s | 45 |
| 1940s | 16 |
| 1950s | 19 |
| 1960s | 0 |
| 1970s | 0 |
| 1980s | 0 |
| 1990s | 0 |
| 2000s | 0 |
| 2010s | 0 |
| 2020s | 0 |
Meaning & origin
Less is a rare and enigmatic name that appears in U.S. Social Security records as early as 1881, but its usage has always been extremely limited. The name's peak year was 1900, though even then it did not register a rank due to its infrequency. In the most recent year of data, 2025, Less remains unranked, reflecting its status as an obscure choice. The trajectory of its usage is stable, meaning it has never experienced a surge in popularity. Top states are not available, suggesting the name is scattered without a regional concentration. Given its uncertain etymology, Less may appeal to parents seeking a minimalist and distinctive name.
Less is a rare given name of uncertain origin. It may have emerged as a short form of names like Lester or Leslie, or as a nickname based on the comparative adjective. Its use as a given name is sporadic and has never been widespread.
Sibling names for Less
Names that share Less's style, for a brother or sister.
