Declining since 2012, #4,539 for boys today.
Popularity of Liem since 1981
Babies named Liem per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Boys |
|---|---|
| 1980s | 25 |
| 1990s | 58 |
| 2000s | 150 |
| 2010s | 378 |
| 2020s | 131 |
Meaning & origin
Liem is a Vietnamese name meaning 'bright' or 'radiant,' reflecting positive qualities associated with light and intelligence. Though first recorded in U.S. data in 1981, it has remained relatively rare; as of 2025, it ranked 4,539 with about 1 in 77,640 newborn boys receiving the name. Its peak year was 2013, and since 2012 the name has been falling in usage, likely due to shifting naming trends. The name is most common in California, where many Vietnamese-American families reside. Liem remains a distinctive choice, offering a connection to Vietnamese heritage without being overly common.
Liem is a Vietnamese name, likely derived from the Sino-Vietnamese character 亮 (meaning 'bright' or 'clear'). It may also be a variant of Liam, though its use in Vietnam predates recent cross-cultural adoption. The name gained modest international exposure in the 21st century, particularly among Vietnamese diaspora communities.
Where Liem is most popular
Births per 100,000 boys by state, 2025. The lightest shade means too few recorded births.
Nicknames & variants
Variants: Liam
Sibling names for Liem
Names that share Liem's style, for a brother or sister.
