Rising since 1993, #939 for girls today.
Popularity of Tallulah since 1917
Babies named Tallulah per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls |
|---|---|
| 1910s | 11 |
| 1920s | 11 |
| 1930s | 61 |
| 1940s | 43 |
| 1950s | 31 |
| 1960s | 0 |
| 1970s | 6 |
| 1980s | 43 |
| 1990s | 61 |
| 2000s | 608 |
| 2010s | 1,540 |
| 2020s | 1,687 |
Meaning & origin
Tallulah is a name of disputed origins, with strong ties to both Native American and Irish heritage. Its earliest recorded use in the United States dates to 1917, and in 2025 it ranked 939th for girls, with an estimated 1 in 5,823 newborns receiving the name. The name has shown a rising trajectory since 1993, reaching its peak popularity in 2023. It is most prevalent in states like Maine, Oregon, and Alabama, reflecting a regional preference for melodic, nature-inspired names. The name's association with the Tallulah River in Georgia and its use by actress Tallulah Bankhead have contributed to its enduring appeal as a distinctive choice.
Tallulah is believed to derive from the Choctaw words 'tali' (rock) and 'ula' (water), translating to 'leaping water.' It is also the name of a river in Georgia. Alternatively, it may have Irish origins as a variant of 'Tuilelaith,' meaning 'princess of abundance.' The name gained popularity in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, partly through its use by Tallulah Bankhead, an American actress.
Where Tallulah is most popular
Births per 100,000 girls by state, 2025. The lightest shade means too few recorded births.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Tally, Lula, Tallie
Sibling names for Tallulah
Names that share Tallulah's style, for a brother or sister.
