Holding steady.
Popularity of Smiley since 1900
Babies named Smiley per year in U.S. Social Security records. Raw births topped out in 1926, but relative to how few babies were recorded back then, Smiley's real moment was 1904.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Boys |
|---|---|
| 1900s | 11 |
| 1910s | 62 |
| 1920s | 74 |
| 1930s | 62 |
| 1940s | 57 |
| 1950s | 64 |
| 1960s | 22 |
| 1970s | 5 |
| 1980s | 0 |
| 1990s | 0 |
| 2000s | 0 |
| 2010s | 0 |
| 2020s | 0 |
Meaning & origin
Smiley is a rare and whimsical given name in the United States, first recorded in 1900. Its peak year was 1904, after which its usage declined sharply. The name has remained stable in obscurity, with no significant revival in recent decades. The latest year of record is 2025, though with a one-in-N figure of null, it is essentially a statistical anomaly. The trajectory is stable, meaning it has not seen notable increases or decreases. Smiley is typically used for girls, though its cheerful meaning makes it potentially unisex. No top states are recorded, reflecting its extreme rarity. As a nickname-turned-first-name, it fits a pattern of English word names, but its use remains minimal. Parents choosing Smiley today are likely drawn to its upbeat connotations and uniqueness.
Smiley is a rare given name in the United States, first recorded in 1900. It likely originated as a nickname or surname derived from the Middle English 'smilen' (to smile), used to describe a cheerful person. Its use as a first name has been sporadic, with a minor peak in 1904. It remains an uncommon choice, possibly influenced by the modern emoji culture.
Sibling names for Smiley
Names that share Smiley's style, for a brother or sister.
