A 1880s favorite, climbing again.
Popularity of Roscoe since 1880
Babies named Roscoe per year in U.S. Social Security records. Raw births topped out in 1920, but relative to how few babies were recorded back then, Roscoe's real moment was 1888.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Boys |
|---|---|
| 1880s | 969 |
| 1890s | 850 |
| 1900s | 916 |
| 1910s | 3,803 |
| 1920s | 4,503 |
| 1930s | 2,579 |
| 1940s | 2,322 |
| 1950s | 1,927 |
| 1960s | 1,111 |
| 1970s | 769 |
| 1980s | 636 |
| 1990s | 344 |
| 2000s | 363 |
| 2010s | 634 |
| 2020s | 433 |
Meaning & origin
Roscoe first appeared in U.S. birth records in 1880, the earliest year for which Social Security data is available. It reached its peak popularity in 1888, when it was ranked among the most commonly given names. After a long decline, the name began a gradual resurgence starting in 1997, with its trajectory now showing sustained growth. In 2025, it was given to approximately 1 in 27,112 boys nationwide. While its use is spread across the country, it was most common in Washington state in recent data. The name's vintage charm and strong consonant sounds appeal to parents seeking an old-fashioned revival name.
Roscoe originated as an English surname, itself derived from a place name in Lancashire, England, from the Old Norse words 'rá' (roebuck) and 'skógr' (wood). It entered use as a given name in the United States during the late 19th century, achieving modest popularity in the 1880s and 1890s before declining throughout the 20th century.
Where Roscoe is most popular
Births per 100,000 boys by state. Press play or drag the slider to watch it move across the decades. The lightest shade means too few recorded births.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Ross, Scoe
Variants: Rosco
Sibling names for Roscoe
Names that share Roscoe's style, for a brother or sister.
Sisters: Mabel, Cora, Lula, Etta, Nellie, Merrilee, Arnetta, Classie, Ludie, Rozella, Cozetta, Letti, Lovetta, Saffron, Savilla, Vermell, Arzella, Delcia, Fayetta, Glenola, Hazeline, Ivadell, Lema, Loveta, Tempie, Glessie, Levora, Lodie, Rosezetta
Brothers: Elmer, Earl, Clarence, Grover, Herman, Rayfield, Durwood, Lenwood, Clayborn, Delmont, Lonzie, Marvelle, Pinkney, Esco
