A 1920s favorite, climbing again.
Popularity of Roslyn since 1891
Babies named Roslyn per year in U.S. Social Security records. Raw births topped out in 1956, but relative to how few babies were recorded back then, Roslyn's real moment was 1927.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls |
|---|---|
| 1890s | 11 |
| 1900s | 106 |
| 1910s | 1,061 |
| 1920s | 2,507 |
| 1930s | 1,679 |
| 1940s | 1,957 |
| 1950s | 2,941 |
| 1960s | 2,530 |
| 1970s | 1,243 |
| 1980s | 751 |
| 1990s | 542 |
| 2000s | 648 |
| 2010s | 1,691 |
| 2020s | 980 |
Meaning & origin
Roslyn is a Scottish name that peaked in popularity in the 1920s, ranking 1427 in 2025 with only 1 in 10,644 girls receiving the name. Its peak year was 1927, reflecting the fashion for soft, feminine -lyn endings during that era. The name has been rising in use since 2001, showing a quiet revival. Top states for Roslyn are Kentucky, Washington, and Colorado, suggesting regional appeal.
Roslyn originates from the place name Roslin in Midlothian, Scotland, likely derived from Gaelic elements 'ros' (promontory) and 'lin' (pool or waterfall), or alternatively from 'ros' (rose) and 'linn' (lake). The name entered English usage as a given name in the 19th century, often chosen for its feminine and floral associations. It peaked in popularity in the United States during the 1920s.
Where Roslyn 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.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Roz, Ros, Lyn
Sibling names for Roslyn
Names that share Roslyn's style, for a brother or sister.
