Declining since 1998, #2,051 for girls today.
Popularity of Star since 1922
Babies named Star per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls |
|---|---|
| 1920s | 20 |
| 1930s | 49 |
| 1940s | 273 |
| 1950s | 552 |
| 1960s | 588 |
| 1970s | 902 |
| 1980s | 1,000 |
| 1990s | 1,221 |
| 2000s | 1,820 |
| 2010s | 1,207 |
| 2020s | 643 |
Meaning & origin
The name Star has been in use since 1922, but it gained most of its popularity in the late 20th century. Its peak year was 1997, after which it has been gradually falling in use; since 1998 the trajectory has been downward. In the latest data from 2025, it ranked 2051, with a frequency of 1 in 17,470 births. The name has been especially favored in Georgia, North Carolina, and Pennsylvania. As a word name, Star fits into a modern trend of celestial and nature-inspired names, alongside Luna, Nova, and Sky. While it is most often given to girls, it retains a certain unisex quality. Its simplicity and positive association with light and guidance contribute to its enduring, if modest, appeal.
Star is a modern English word name derived from the Old English 'steorra', referring to a celestial luminous body. It has been used as a given name since the early 20th century, likely inspired by the natural world and the popularity of other word names. Its use increased notably in the 1990s, influenced in part by celebrity culture and the entertainment industry.
Where Star 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
Variants: Starr
Sibling names for Star
Names that share Star's style, for a brother or sister.
