Rising since 2010, #2,542 for girls today.
Popularity of Primrose since 1914
Babies named Primrose per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls |
|---|---|
| 1910s | 17 |
| 1920s | 30 |
| 1930s | 19 |
| 1940s | 7 |
| 1950s | 0 |
| 1960s | 5 |
| 1970s | 6 |
| 1980s | 5 |
| 1990s | 0 |
| 2000s | 0 |
| 2010s | 427 |
| 2020s | 517 |
Meaning & origin
Primrose is a botanical name with English origins, first recorded in U.S. data in 1914. After decades of rarity, it has been rising steadily since 2010, reaching its peak rank of 2,542 in 2025 (the most recent data), when approximately 1 in 23,294 girls were named Primrose. The name is most popular in Illinois, Pennsylvania, and Texas. Its resurgence aligns with the broader trend of flower names such as Lily and Violet, appealing to parents seeking a delicate yet distinctive choice. The name's literary and film associations, though not referenced in official data, may also contribute to its modern appeal.
Primrose is a floral name taken directly from the English word for the flower, which derives from Latin 'prima rosa' meaning 'first rose' (though not a true rose), referencing its early blooming. It gained use as a given name in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, particularly in England. The name saw a revival in the 21st century, consistent with the trend of botanical names.
Where Primrose is most popular
Births per 100,000 girls by state, 2025. The lightest shade means too few recorded births.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Prim, Rose, Rosie, Posy
Sibling names for Primrose
Names that share Primrose's style, for a brother or sister.
