Declining since 2021, #1,902 for girls today.
Popularity of Pepper since 1937
Babies named Pepper per year in U.S. Social Security records. Raw births topped out in 2014, but relative to how few babies were recorded back then, Pepper's real moment was 2022.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls | Boys |
|---|---|---|
| 1930s | 0 | 5 |
| 1940s | 5 | 25 |
| 1950s | 45 | 49 |
| 1960s | 138 | 12 |
| 1970s | 552 | 19 |
| 1980s | 162 | 0 |
| 1990s | 58 | 26 |
| 2000s | 191 | 54 |
| 2010s | 1,353 | 37 |
| 2020s | 802 | 18 |
Meaning & origin
Pepper is a modern English name derived from the spice, first recorded in 1947. It experienced a notable surge in popularity in the early 2020s, peaking in 2022, before beginning a gradual decline. As of 2025, it ranks 1902 nationally, with roughly 1 in every 15,758 newborn girls receiving the name. The name sees higher usage in states such as Utah, Virginia, and California. Pepper is part of a broader trend of 'spice' names, alongside Sage and Clove, and appeals to parents seeking a lively, nature-inspired choice.
Pepper is a modern English name taken directly from the spice, which derives from Old English pipor, Latin piper, and Greek peperi, all traceable to Sanskrit pippalī. Its use as a given name began in the mid-20th century, likely influenced by the character of Pepper in the 1964 musical 'Mame' and the 1970 song 'Pepper' by The Beatles. It gained popularity in the 2010s and early 2020s, particularly in the United States.
Where Pepper is most popular
Births per 100,000 girls by state, 2025. The lightest shade means too few recorded births.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Peppy, Pep
Sibling names for Pepper
Names that share Pepper's style, for a brother or sister.
