A 1950s favorite, climbing again.
Popularity of Val since 1882
Babies named Val per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls | Boys |
|---|---|---|
| 1880s | 0 | 15 |
| 1890s | 0 | 19 |
| 1900s | 9 | 56 |
| 1910s | 69 | 237 |
| 1920s | 111 | 436 |
| 1930s | 167 | 701 |
| 1940s | 198 | 972 |
| 1950s | 703 | 1,475 |
| 1960s | 415 | 801 |
| 1970s | 48 | 356 |
| 1980s | 11 | 147 |
| 1990s | 0 | 151 |
| 2000s | 0 | 119 |
| 2010s | 0 | 82 |
| 2020s | 18 | 90 |
Meaning & origin
Val is a short, punchy name that has been in use in the United States since at least 1882, the first year of Social Security records. It peaked in popularity in 1952, when it ranked highest among U.S. births. After decades of decline, it has been rising again since 2012, reflecting a trend toward clipped vintage names. Val is a sturdy masculine diminutive with Latin roots meaning 'strong,' making it a solid choice for parents seeking a name that is both simple and substantial.
Val originated as a short form of Valentine (from Latin Valentinus, derived from valens 'strong, vigorous') or Valerius (from Latin valere 'to be strong'). It came into use as an independent given name in the 19th century, particularly in the United States. The name saw a peak in popularity in the 1950s, coinciding with the fame of actor Val Kilmer.
Where Val is most popular
Births per 100,000 boys by state. Press play or drag the slider to watch it move across the decades. The lightest shade means too few recorded births.
Sibling names for Val
Names that share Val's style, for a brother or sister.
