Declining since 1993, #4,857 for boys today.
Popularity of Silvestre since 1912
Babies named Silvestre per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Boys |
|---|---|
| 1910s | 54 |
| 1920s | 150 |
| 1930s | 119 |
| 1940s | 110 |
| 1950s | 141 |
| 1960s | 140 |
| 1970s | 195 |
| 1980s | 279 |
| 1990s | 506 |
| 2000s | 433 |
| 2010s | 219 |
| 2020s | 111 |
Meaning & origin
Silvestre is a Latin-derived name with a strong nature meaning, 'of the forest.' In the United States, it first appeared on record in 1912 and reached its peak in 1994, though it has never been among the top names. By 2025, it ranked 4,857, with about 1 in 85,404 boys receiving the name. Its usage has been declining since roughly 1993, and the name is most frequently given in Texas, reflecting its enduring popularity among Spanish-speaking communities. Silvestre offers a classic, cross-cultural alternative to the more common Sylvester, with a melodic three-syllable pronunciation that fits comfortably alongside other traditional Romance names.
Derived from the Latin name Silvester, meaning 'of the forest' or 'wild', from silva 'forest'. The name was borne by several early saints and three popes, including Pope Sylvester I (314-335). In Spanish, Italian, and Portuguese, Silvestre became the vernacular form, used throughout the Christian Mediterranean. It has never been common in the United States but has seen sustained if modest use among Spanish-speaking communities.
Where Silvestre is most popular
Births per 100,000 boys by state, 2025. The lightest shade means too few recorded births.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Sil, Tito
Sibling names for Silvestre
Names that share Silvestre's style, for a brother or sister.
