Rising since 1988, #1,959 for boys today.
Popularity of Usher since 1914
Babies named Usher per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Boys |
|---|---|
| 1910s | 5 |
| 1920s | 10 |
| 1930s | 6 |
| 1940s | 9 |
| 1950s | 12 |
| 1960s | 10 |
| 1970s | 18 |
| 1980s | 40 |
| 1990s | 127 |
| 2000s | 322 |
| 2010s | 422 |
| 2020s | 325 |
Meaning & origin
Usher is an English occupational surname turned given name, meaning 'doorkeeper' or 'attendant'. It first appeared in U.S. records in 1914 but remained rare for decades, hitting its lowest point mid-century. A resurgence began in 1988, steadily climbing in popularity. In 2025, it reached a peak rank of 1959, with a 1-in-21,898 incidence. The name's revival is widely attributed to the international fame of singer and entertainer Usher Raymond IV, born in 1978. Top states for the name include New York and New Jersey. Usher remains uncommon, appealing to parents seeking a distinctive name with historical roots and a modern cultural association.
Usher derives from the Old French 'ussier' (modern French 'huissier'), meaning 'doorkeeper' or 'usher', itself from Latin 'ostiarius' ('door-keeper'). Originally an occupational surname for a servant who guarded a door or introduced guests, it saw occasional use as a given name in the 19th and early 20th centuries. Its use declined sharply mid-century but was revived by the success of American singer Usher (born 1978).
Where Usher is most popular
Births per 100,000 boys by state, 2025. The lightest shade means too few recorded births.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Ush
Sibling names for Usher
Names that share Usher's style, for a brother or sister.
