Rising since 1993, #1,252 for boys today.
Popularity of Valor since 1988
Babies named Valor per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls | Boys |
|---|---|---|
| 1980s | 0 | 5 |
| 1990s | 0 | 12 |
| 2000s | 0 | 90 |
| 2010s | 79 | 637 |
| 2020s | 109 | 748 |
Meaning & origin
Valor is a modern word name that first appeared on U.S. birth records in 1988, and has been steadily climbing in use ever since. In 2025, it reached rank 1252, with approximately 1 in 10,743 newborn boys receiving the name. Its peak year so far is 2025, and its trajectory has been rising since 1993, making it a relatively recent addition to the American naming landscape. The name is most popular in states like Arkansas, Colorado, and Alabama. As a virtue name, Valor fits a trend of aspirational names that celebrate positive qualities, similar to Grace or Hope. While still uncommon, its growth suggests increasing appeal among parents seeking a strong, meaningful name for their sons.
Valor is an English word name derived from the Latin 'valere,' meaning 'to be strong' or 'to be worthy.' It entered English via Old French 'valour,' referring to courage and bravery. As a given name, it is a modern coinage, first recorded in the United States in 1988, part of a trend of virtue and aspirational word names. It has seen increasing use over the past few decades.
Where Valor is most popular
Births per 100,000 boys by state, 2025. The lightest shade means too few recorded births.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Val
Variants: Valour
Sibling names for Valor
Names that share Valor's style, for a brother or sister.
Sisters: Grace, Hope, Faith, Honor, Maeve, Liberty, Memory, Blessyn, Freedom, Glory, Lovely, Praise, Victory, Amour, Clarity, Fortune, Lovette, Peace, Velora, Honour, Liberti, Purpose, Innocence, Joyous, Justiss, Onesty, Temprance
Brothers: Maverick, Asher, Everett, Jasper, Knox, Champ, Loyal, Knowledge, Truth, Brave, Champion, Gentle, Sovereign, Bravery, Courage, Dominion, Legendary, Prodigy, Romance
