Holding steady, #7,679 for boys today.
Popularity of Sly since 1973
Babies named Sly per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Boys |
|---|---|
| 1970s | 12 |
| 1980s | 5 |
| 1990s | 25 |
| 2000s | 11 |
| 2010s | 24 |
| 2020s | 24 |
Meaning & origin
Sly is a rare given name that first appeared in U.S. records in 1973. Its origins are uncertain, but it likely emerged as a modern coinage from the English word sly or as a nickname for Sylvester. As of 2025, it ranks 7,679th, with approximately 1 in 170,808 boys receiving the name. The name reached its peak in 2025, though the trajectory is stable and it has not appeared in any top state lists. Sly remains an unconventional choice with a distinct edge, reflecting a broader trend toward one-syllable, surname-inspired names.
Sly is a modern English name, likely derived from the word sly, meaning clever or cunning, or as a short form of Sylvester. It first appeared as a given name in the late 20th century, possibly influenced by the American actor Sylvester Stallone's nickname. The name remains rare, with usage concentrated in the United States.
Sibling names for Sly
Names that share Sly's style, for a brother or sister.
