A 1970s favorite, climbing again.
Popularity of Smokey since 1918
Babies named Smokey per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Boys |
|---|---|
| 1910s | 6 |
| 1920s | 0 |
| 1930s | 0 |
| 1940s | 0 |
| 1950s | 11 |
| 1960s | 10 |
| 1970s | 51 |
| 1980s | 25 |
| 1990s | 5 |
| 2000s | 10 |
| 2010s | 6 |
| 2020s | 7 |
Meaning & origin
Smokey is a distinctly American nickname name that emerged from the word 'smoke.' It first appeared in U.S. birth records in 1918, but its modern use was shaped by the famous Smokey Bear wildfire prevention campaign, launched in 1944. The name reached its peak popularity in 1977, though it never entered the top 1000 rankings. After a long decline, the name has been on a rising trajectory since 2022, suggesting a revival of interest. Unlike many nature-inspired names, Smokey has a strong occupational and cultural tie to firefighting, making it a quirky choice with a clear backstory. Its historical association with the beloved bear mascot gives it a playful, nostalgic feel, while its rarity keeps it unconventional.
Smokey is an American English nickname derived from the word 'smoke.' It originated as a nickname for firefighters, particularly those known as 'Smokey Bear' after the U.S. Forest Service mascot created in 1944. The name gained popularity as a given name in the mid-20th century, peaking in the 1970s.
Nicknames & variants
Variants: Smoky
Sibling names for Smokey
Names that share Smokey's style, for a brother or sister.
