Declining since 1997, #2,438 for girls today.
Popularity of Unique since 1972
Babies named Unique per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls | Boys |
|---|---|---|
| 1970s | 166 | 12 |
| 1980s | 745 | 90 |
| 1990s | 2,039 | 252 |
| 2000s | 2,476 | 290 |
| 2010s | 1,576 | 131 |
| 2020s | 613 | 179 |
Meaning & origin
Unique entered U.S. naming records in 1972, part of a wave of vocabulary names that emerged in the late 20th century. Its use climbed steadily, reaching a peak in 2009 with its highest recorded frequency. Since 1997, however, the name has been on a declining trajectory, and by 2025 it ranked 2,438, given to approximately 1 in every 22,017 newborn girls. The name's appeal has been strongest in states like Georgia, Indiana, and Illinois, where parents have been drawn to its distinctive meaning. Unique remains a bold, self-referential choice that directly communicates individuality.
Unique derives directly from the English word unique, meaning 'being the only one of its kind.' It entered use as a given name in the United States in the late 20th century, part of a trend of adopting vocabulary words as personal names. The name saw its peak popularity in 2009.
Where Unique 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
Nicknames: Neek
Sibling names for Unique
Names that share Unique's style, for a brother or sister.
