A 1880s favorite, climbing again.
Popularity of Olive since 1880
Babies named Olive per year in U.S. Social Security records. Raw births topped out in 2022, but relative to how few babies were recorded back then, Olive's real moment was 1886.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls |
|---|---|
| 1880s | 3,456 |
| 1890s | 5,713 |
| 1900s | 6,027 |
| 1910s | 12,355 |
| 1920s | 10,889 |
| 1930s | 3,542 |
| 1940s | 1,444 |
| 1950s | 617 |
| 1960s | 257 |
| 1970s | 122 |
| 1980s | 94 |
| 1990s | 141 |
| 2000s | 1,562 |
| 2010s | 10,707 |
| 2020s | 10,000 |
Meaning & origin
Olive is a nature name with deep roots, literally and figuratively. First recorded in the U.S. in 1880, it reached its peak popularity early on, ranking highest in 1886. After a long decline, the name has been on a steady rise again since 1987, reflecting a broader revival of vintage, earthy names. In 2025, it ranked 197th, with a frequency of about 1 in 1,006 newborns. Olive is especially favored in Vermont, Alaska, and Maine, states known for their natural landscapes. The name's simplicity, peaceful symbolism, and nickname potential (Liv, Ollie) make it a gentle yet sturdy choice.
Olive is derived from the Latin word 'oliva,' meaning 'olive.' The olive branch has long been a symbol of peace, and the name was used in medieval Europe, though it became most popular in the 19th century. The French variant 'Olivia' also contributed to its use in English-speaking countries.
Where Olive 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.
“Olive” around the world
Where Olive lands in the latest official birth statistics abroad, matched to the U.S. spelling.
France
20
babies in 2024
Ireland
17
babies in 2025
New Zealand
#29
in 2025
Quebec
17
babies in 2025
Australia (NSW)
#68
in 2025
Sources: INSEE (France) · CSO Ireland (Ireland) · NZ Dept of Internal Affairs (New Zealand) · Retraite Québec (Quebec) · NSW Registry of BDM (Australia (NSW)).
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Liv, Ollie, Olly
Sibling names for Olive
Names that share Olive's style, for a brother or sister.
Sisters: Violet, Hazel, Ruby, Ivy, Pearl, Delilah, Willow, Avis, Carmel, Harlow, Pepper, Verda, Vernie, Amethyst, Delpha, Eartha, Hazle, Ivery, Lemon, Maple, Oneta, Apple, Berdena, Daphane, Elfreda, Ermine, Ivorie, Leva, November, Olean, Orlena, Turquoise, Editha, Maudry, Rilda, Theory, Vanilla, Evergreen, Goldye, Maysel, Olivene, Otie
Brothers: Leo, Felix, Jasper, Oscar, Henry, Casper, Finis, Milo, Orval, Osborne, Ash, Cleve, Ezell, Herb, Merton, Orson, Osmar, Alf, Almond, Bascom, Buell, Criss, Doyne, Ferd, Filbert, Hobie, Ingram, Irven, Moss, Obert, Orange, Othel, Oval, Polo, Quill, Quince, Banyan, Fernie, Julis, Linard, Oland, Ollen, Edgel, Elby, Garvis, Greene, Karmel, Mancil, Olon, Osby, Rector
Names like Olive
Names whose popularity has moved with Olive's over the last 50 years.
