MallowbyNames

Tong

TONG · Of uncertain origin; possibly derived from Chinese words meaning 'red', 'copper', or 'hall'.

Peak popularity
1994
Usually for
Boys
Trend
Holding steady

Holding steady.

Popularity of Tong since 1946

Babies named Tong per year in U.S. Social Security records.

715221960198020002020Most births 1993Boys
Data table (by decade)
DecadeBoys
1940s5
1950s0
1960s0
1970s0
1980s147
1990s139
2000s7
2010s11
2020s0

Meaning & origin

The name Tong has a long if low-key presence in the United States, first appearing in birth records in 1946. Its usage peaked in 1994, though it has never reached the top ranks of popularity. Tong remains a stable choice, with no dramatic swings in frequency. The name's origins are Chinese, but its precise meaning is debated, possibly connecting to words for 'red', 'copper', or 'hall'. As a given name, it has been used almost exclusively for boys.

Tong is a name of Chinese origin, though its specific derivation is unclear. It may be related to the Chinese word for 'red' (红) or 'copper' (铜), or it could be a variant of the surname Tong (童, meaning 'child' or 'young'). The name has been in use in the United States since the mid-20th century, first recorded in 1946.

Sibling names for Tong

Names that share Tong's style, for a brother or sister.

Sisters: Mei, Lin, Hua, Ying, Lan

Brothers: Chen, Wei, Jun, Ming, Long

A parent animal hugging its little one, the personalized name page

T is for Tong, our favorite little boy.

T is for Tong…”

In a Mallowby alphabet book, Tong's letter becomes Tong's page: hand-illustrated, printed hardcover or paperback, made just for them.

Make Tong's book

Books for siblings or grandkids? The second book is 15% off.

Questions parents ask

What does the name Tong mean?
The meaning of Tong is uncertain; it may derive from Chinese words for 'red', 'copper', or 'hall'.
How popular is Tong in the U.S.?
Tong's peak usage was in 1994, but detailed current rank data is not available. The name has been given to boys since 1946.
Is Tong a boy's or girl's name?
Tong is predominantly given to boys in U.S. records.